Casper native and veteran Roxy Helfrick was facing serious electrical problems at his house, but thanks to the support from local nonprofits and community members, he is expected to see the necessary work done in August.

Electrical Issues and Community Response

The electrical issues at the Helfrick residence stem from an outdated Federal Pacific Engineering panel, a type of equipment commonly installed in homes across the United States from the 1950s through the 1980s. Helfrick said his house, built in 1958, still utilizes this specific system which has since failed laboratory testing.

The primary defect in the panels, Helfrick explained, is that the breakers often fail to trip during an electrical overload. Instead of shutting down as intended, the breakers are prone to overheating and starting fires, a problem linked to thousands of residential fires nationwide each year.

Through the Natrona County Veterans Unified Council, Helfrick was introduced to Veteran Building Charities, a nonprofit that operates as one of the 16 member organizations that comprise the council. Through Veteran Building Charities, Helfrick is now receiving the financial assistance needed for the work.

VBC representative Marshall Clayton spearheaded the project, and said he’s been in talks with several contractors, city officials, and more. Work is officially slated for Aug. 25 and 26.

Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.