The Idaho Department of Lands, which is leading the investigation into the Valley Fire that started east of Boise on Oct. 4, has finalized a report concluding that Idaho Power equipment was involved in the ignition of the fire.
The report states that a cross arm on an Idaho Power pole broke and likely caused an energized wire to contact the ground. The report found no evidence of rot or bug infestation and no visible alterations to the cross arm other than those necessary to support the line. Idaho Power inspected this line three times this year, including the cross arm that appears to have broken, and no issues were noted in either ground or helicopter inspections. As noted in the report, the fire did not damage any structures, vehicles, or equipment.
Idaho Power acknowledges the conclusions of the Idaho Department of Lands report and remains committed to safely providing reliable, affordable energy to its customers. The company is grateful for the first responders who worked to quickly contain the Valley Fire and the patience of the customers who were impacted by the fire.
