Electrical fires are one of the most dangerous threats to a home, often starting behind walls or inside outlets with no visible warning. In Rexburg, where older wiring systems are still common, prevention is key. Taking the right steps now can help you avoid costly damage—or worse, injury to your loved ones.
Watch for Warning Signs Early
Fires rarely happen out of nowhere. There are usually early signs, but they often go unnoticed or ignored until it’s too late. That’s why awareness is your first line of defense.
Common warning signs include:
- Warm or discolored outlets and switch covers
- Buzzing sounds coming from the walls or panels
- Breakers that trip frequently without a clear cause
If you notice any of these, don’t wait. These symptoms point to wiring problems that can quickly escalate if left unchecked.
Use Appliances and Cords Safely
Misusing appliances or extension cords is one of the fastest ways to cause an electrical fire. Even small household items can overload a circuit if not used properly.
To stay safe:
- Never run cords under rugs or furniture
- Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords together
- Unplug appliances when they’re not in use, especially toasters, heaters, and coffee makers
Make sure all appliances are UL-listed and cords aren’t frayed, cracked, or damaged. It only takes one bad wire to start a fire.
Keep Your Electrical Panel Up to Date
If your home’s breaker box hasn’t been inspected in years—or still uses fuses—it could be time for an upgrade. Older panels may not be able to handle your home’s power needs, and faulty breakers can fail to shut off during a short or overload.
Signs you may need a panel inspection:
- Your home still uses a fuse box
- You frequently reset tripped breakers
- You’ve added new high-powered appliances recently
Having a Rexburg electrician check your panel can give you peace of mind and identify issues before they become hazards.
Upgrade Old Wiring Before It Becomes a Problem
Wiring doesn’t last forever. Many homes in Rexburg—especially those built before the 1980s—still have outdated aluminum wiring or brittle insulation that can overheat or spark under pressure. Even if your system seems to work fine, the hidden condition of old wires may tell a different story.
Signs your wiring may need replacement:
- Lights dimming or flickering when large appliances are used
- Outlets that spark when plugging in a device
- A strong “burning plastic” smell with no visible cause
Upgrading old wiring isn’t just about better performance—it can dramatically reduce the risk of electrical fires and bring your system up to current safety codes.
Schedule Regular Inspections with a Pro
One of the smartest things you can do is bring in a licensed electrician for a whole-home safety inspection. These evaluations can catch small problems early, ensure you’re meeting code, and offer tailored recommendations for your home’s age and setup.
A professional inspection covers:
- Interior and exterior outlets and switches
- The main electrical panel and grounding system
- GFCI and AFCI protection in bathrooms, kitchens, and other key areas
Prevention is always cheaper—and safer—than repairs after the fact.
Conclusion
Electrical fires are preventable when you know the risks and take the right steps to stay ahead of them. With routine maintenance, smart appliance habits, and expert help, your home can remain a safe haven for years to come.
Don’t take chances with your safety. Call Platinum Electric at (208) 403-3040 today to schedule a full home inspection with a trusted electrician.
We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.