Idaho homeowner guide

Main water shutoff

At the meter or wall entry. Idaho's winters bring hard freeze events that can burst pipes in homes with inadequate insulation. Know the shutoff before any freeze forecast.

Radon: test immediately

Idaho has high radon statewide. The Treasure Valley (Boise area) and north Idaho have particularly elevated levels. Test within 90 days of move-in. Idaho DHW (Department of Health and Welfare) recommends all Idaho homes be tested.

Earthquake awareness

Idaho has significant seismic risk, particularly in the Boise area (near the Western Idaho Seismic Zone) and in the eastern Snake River Plain (Yellowstone hotspot track). Know which walls and areas to avoid in a significant earthquake.

Wildfire defensible space check

Boise foothills, north Idaho mountains, and the Snake River Canyon communities face serious wildfire risk. Walk the defensible space monthly during fire season; dry grass within 30 feet needs to be cut below 4 inches.

Heating system monitoring

North Idaho winters can be severe (-20°F or colder). Keep propane above 25% and heating oil above 100 gallons. Annual furnace service in fall.

Defensible space establishment

Establish Zone 1 (0-30 ft) as non-combustible space. Remove dead vegetation, wood piles within 30 feet, and clear debris from gutters and roof. Screen all vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh.

Roof and exterior inspection after winter

North Idaho heavy snow and Treasure Valley freeze-thaw cycles cause roof and foundation stress. Inspect for lifted shingles, cracked flashing, and foundation movement after the ground thaws.

Boise foothills fire season

The Boise foothills have burned multiple times, putting homes in immediate interface areas at risk. Know your evacuation route and zone before June 1. Idaho DNR publishes fire danger ratings daily.

North Idaho comprehensive winter prep

By October 1: heating system serviced, fuel supply confirmed, pipes insulated in unheated spaces, heat tape on vulnerable runs, 7-10 day emergency supplies stocked. Coeur d'Alene and north Idaho communities receive 50-80 inches of snow annually.

Test and act

Idaho's high radon risk warrants immediate testing. Sub-slab depressurization systems are effective statewide. Idaho DHW lists certified mitigators.

Secure water heater and appliances

Idaho's seismic risk warrants basic earthquake preparedness: strap the water heater to studs, secure bookcases and tall furniture to walls, know how to shut off the gas meter, and store a 72-hour emergency kit.

Go-bag and two evacuation routes

Pre-pack a go-bag with 72-hour supplies, medications, documents, and pet supplies. Know two routes out of your neighborhood. Idaho wildfires can move from distant ridges to homes in 30-60 minutes under extreme wind conditions.

Coeur d'Alene and Panhandle winter

North Idaho receives 50-80 inches of snow annually. Stock 7 days of supplies. Avista Utilities: 1-800-227-9187. Idaho Power (southern): 1-800-488-6151. Generator outside only, 20+ feet from any window or door.

Drop, Cover, Hold On

Drop to hands and knees, take cover under a sturdy desk or table (or against an interior wall), and hold on until shaking stops. After: check for gas leaks (smell) and structural damage before re-entering. Shut off gas at the meter if you smell gas.

Shut off and drain

Main water off at the meter. Open all faucets. Idaho plumber wait times after freeze events: 48-72 hours in the Treasure Valley, longer in north Idaho.

Snowmelt and spring flooding

Do not enter flooded spaces if electrical equipment is submerged. Call Idaho Power (1-800-488-6151) or Avista (1-800-227-9187) to disconnect at the meter. Pump out, dry immediately.

Idaho blizzard and wildfire outages

Idaho Power: 1-800-488-6151. Avista Utilities: 1-800-227-9187. Rocky Mountain Power: 1-888-221-7070. Generator outside only, 20+ feet from windows.

Evacuate and call from outside

Rotten egg smell: everyone out. Leave door open. Call 911. Intermountain Gas: 1-800-548-3679. Avista Gas: 1-800-227-9187. Do not re-enter until cleared.

Two exits, winter gear accessible, never re-enter

Two ways out of every room. Winter gear accessible. Outdoor meeting place. Crawl under smoke. Call 911. Never re-enter.