Can You Run a Generator During a Wildfire? A Guide for Homeowners

As wildfires become more frequent and intense across the U.S., power outages are increasingly common, affecting communities both near and far from the fires themselves. Portable generators can provide essential backup power during these outages, but their use during wildfires raises important safety considerations. This guide explores whether and how you can safely operate a generator during active wildfires and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), offering portable generator safety best practices to keep your household safe and powered.

Understanding the Risks of Operating a Generator During Wildfires

According to the Portable Generator Manufacturers’ Association (PGMA), generators can help owners gain energy resilience while the power grid is down, but operating a generator during wildfires presents several hazards:

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning: Generators emit CO, a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Using a generator indoors or too close to living spaces can lead to CO buildup.
• Fire Hazards: Generators can become extremely hot during operation. Placing them near flammable materials or dry vegetation while hot can spark flames, leading to additional fires.
• Risk of Backfeeding: Connecting a generator to your home’s electrical system without the proper wiring or a transfer switch can cause electricity to back feed into power lines, putting utility workers at serious risk while they work to restore service.

Can You Run a Generator During an Active Wildfire?

Running a generator during an active wildfire is generally not recommended, especially in areas under Red Flag Warnings or evacuation orders. The operation of generators can pose additional fire risks and may be restricted by local authorities. If you must use a generator during such conditions, prioritize safety by:

• Checking Local Ordinances: Check with local authorities for specific regulations and requirements for running portable generators during an active wildfire.
• Proper Placement: Operate the generator outdoors, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents.
• Monitoring: Never leave the generator unattended while it's running.
• Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure the area around the generator is clear of combustible materials.
• Evacuation: If authorities issue an evacuation order, turn off the generator and leave immediately.

Can You Run a Generator During a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)?

Yes, using a generator during a PSPS is generally permitted and can be a practical solution to maintain power while the grid is down. However, it's essential to follow safety guidelines:

• Regulations: While most generators are typically allowed, larger generators may be subject to air quality regulations and require permits.
• Installation: If connecting the generator to your home's electrical system, use a transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician to prevent back feeding, which can endanger utility workers. A transfer switch provides a properly rated connection allowing the generator to power the home’s electrical panel and shut off the connection the grid.
• Fuel Storage: Store fuel in approved containers, away from living areas and heat sources, including the portable generator.
• Safe Generator Setup: Use an NFPA rated non-combustible generator running cover and heavy-duty cords to prevent the generator’s electrical elements from exposure to the elements.

Safety Precautions for Running a Generator During Wildfires and/or Public Safety Power Shutoffs

To ensure safe generator operation:

• Always run your generator outdoors: Operate your generator exclusively outside — at least 20 feet away from your home and well away from windows, vents, and doors. Never run it in a garage, carport, or near dry brush or flammable materials. Generators produce carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless, deadly gas, and also generate heat and sparks that could ignite nearby vegetation.
• Maintain a clear zone: Create a defensible space around your generator. Clear at least a 5-foot radius of dry leaves, grass, pine needles, and other combustibles. Never place a generator near mulch, woodpiles, or under low-hanging trees. In high fire-risk areas, even a small spark can lead to disaster.
• Use wildfire-safe weather protection: Use a non-combustible, NFPA-rated generator cover that allows for proper airflow. Generators need oxygen to function and must exhaust gases freely. Avoid makeshift covers like tarps or cloth that can trap heat or catch fire.
• Ensure CO safety: Install battery-powered CO detectors in your home, especially near sleeping areas, to alert you if dangerous CO levels are present. Keep your generator far enough away to prevent CO from entering the home — even with windows closed.
• Inspect cords and connections: Before powering up during a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), inspect all extension cords for signs of damage. In wildfire conditions, frayed or exposed wires can create sparks that easily ignite dry surroundings. Use heavy-duty, weather- and heat-resistant outdoor cords only.
• Properly ground your generator: Check your generator’s grounding setup. Ungrounded or improperly grounded equipment can cause shocks or sparks. Refer to your owner’s manual to confirm if your model is pre-grounded or needs additional steps for safe operation.
• Use safe refueling practices: Turn off your generator and allow it to cool fully before refueling. Adding fuel to a hot engine can result in flare-ups or fires. Always store fuel in an approved container, away from ignition sources and dry brush.

How GenTent Protects Your Generator During Wildfires

GenTent generator tents offer a solution for safely operating generators outside in adverse conditions:

• All-Weather Protection: GenTent shields generators from inclement weather like rain, wind, and snow while running, as well as ash, embers, and debris during wildfire season.
• Fire Resistance: Made from NFPA-rated fire-retardant materials, GenTent generator tents reduce the risk of fires caused by hot generator surfaces touching flammable materials.
• Ventilation: Designed to maintain proper airflow, GenTent prevents overheating and ensures toxic carbon monoxide (CO) exhaust gases are safely dispersed.
• Perfect Fit: GenTent running covers fit over 3,000 generator models, ensuring secure and safe coverage for your generator. Find out which GenTent you’re your generator today with our Advanced Fit Finder tool!

Using a portable generator during wildfires can be lifesaving, but it's essential to operate it safely to avoid additional hazards, especially fire hazards. Understanding the risks, following safety precautions, and using protective equipment like GenTent canopies are critical steps in ensuring your safety and maintaining power during emergencies.