Whether you manage a working farm or simply enjoy the quiet that comes with country living, rural life in Idaho comes with a certain level of responsibility, especially during wildfire season. The open space and distance from town may offer peace and privacy, but it can also mean limited access to emergency services and more self-reliance when disaster strikes.
Wildfire prevention should be a routine part of your rural property maintenance. Taking a few practical steps each year can help reduce risk and protect your home, buildings, equipment, and animals. In the sections below, we’ll outline key tips to help you prepare your rural property for wildfire season.
Fuel Storage
Fuel plays an essential role in daily life on a farm or rural property, whether it’s powering equipment, heating buildings, or running generators. However, improper storage can turn a necessity into a serious fire hazard.
If you’re using above-ground fuel tanks, consider adding a fire-resistant barrier or gravel pad underneath. It’s also important to avoid storing fuel inside barns, garages, or any structure where livestock or machinery are kept.
To further reduce risk, consider these best practices:
- Keep fuel at least 30 feet away from any buildings, ideally in a separate, well-ventilated shed or enclosure.
- Use containers that meet safety standards, such as UL-listed metal or heavy-duty plastic fuel cans, and clearly label each one.
- Maintain a clear area around tanks, free from dry vegetation, tools, and other combustible materials.
- Check containers regularly for signs of leaks, rust, or other damage.
- Install fire extinguishers nearby and ensure everyone on the property knows how to operate them in an emergency.
Structure Spacing
Creating physical space between buildings is one of the most effective ways to slow the spread of wildfire. When structures are too close together or surrounded by dry vegetation, fires can move quickly and with devastating results.
What to keep in mind:
- Leave 30-50 feet between structures when possible. This creates a firebreak and slows the spread of flames.
- Maintain “defensible space” around all structures. The first 30 feet should be regularly mowed and kept free of flammable debris like brush, lumber, or stored hay.
- Trim back trees that overhang buildings or power lines.
- Use fire-resistant building materials for roofs, siding, and decks when building new structures or making upgrades.
Equipment Safety
Heavy equipment and power tools can pose a fire hazard, especially during hot, dry conditions. Even routine tasks like mowing, welding, or pulling a trailer can unintentionally spark a wildfire. In fact, wildfires caused by equipment are among the most common types of human-started wildfires.
To help minimize risk, keep these tips in mind when using equipment:
- Avoid mowing, welding, or grinding on high-fire-risk days. Early mornings are typically safer due to higher humidity.
- Inspect equipment before use for loose chains, worn parts, or faulty exhaust systems that could throw sparks.
- Keep a shovel, water supply, and fire extinguisher nearby when using equipment in dry areas.
- Clean engines and compartments regularly, especially during harvest or baling, when dry debris can collect quickly.
- Use spark arrestors on ATVs, chainsaws, and other small engines to prevent accidental ignition.
Protecting What Matters Most
Living in a rural setting offers peace, space, and the chance to build something truly your own. It also means taking wildfire risks seriously and being prepared before a threat arises. Here are a few additional ways to stay wildfire-ready:
- Stay informed of wildfire conditions and red flag warnings. Sign up for wildfire alerts through the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) to receive timely updates during fire season. It’s also a good idea to follow your local National Weather Service office for fire weather forecasts and check with your county emergency management office to register for local evacuation and emergency alerts.
- Coordinate with nearby landowners. Share contact information with your neighbors and work together to identify shared firebreak opportunities, coordinate grazing or clearing schedules, and develop a simple communication plan for fire alerts or evacuation needs.
- Review your insurance policy annually. Connect with your local Idaho Farm Bureau Insurance agent to review your coverage and receive guidance specific to your land, structures, and needs.
Ultimately, wildfire prevention goes beyond protecting structures or equipment. It’s about preserving the life you’ve built and the land that sustains it. By making wildfire prevention part of your regular routine, you’re investing in long-term safety, peace of mind, and the strength of your rural community.
Disclaimer: The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts.
