Generator Fires: A Serious Risk in Kenya
Generator fires destroy property worth millions of shillings annually in Kenya. In many cases, these fires spread to buildings, causing extensive damage and sometimes loss of life.
Understanding fire risks and prevention measures can protect your investment and your family.
Common Causes of Generator Fires
1. Fuel System Fires
Cause: Fuel leaking onto hot engine components
How it happens:
- Cracked fuel lines from age or vibration
- Loose fuel connections
- Damaged fuel filter housing
- Overfilled fuel tank
Prevention:
- Inspect fuel system weekly
- Replace fuel lines every 5 years
- Tighten connections regularly
- Never overfill tank (leave expansion room)
2. Electrical Fires
Cause: Short circuits, overloaded wiring, loose connections
How it happens:
- Undersized wiring for the load
- Rodent damage to cables
- Corroded or loose terminals
- Failed insulation from heat/age
Prevention:
- Use properly sized cables
- Inspect wiring monthly
- Tighten all connections quarterly
- Install proper circuit protection
3. Overheating Fires
Cause: Inadequate cooling leading to ignition
How it happens:
- Blocked radiator airflow
- Low coolant level
- Failed cooling fan
- Dirty air filters restricting airflow
- Operating in enclosed space
Prevention:
- Maintain proper clearance around generator
- Check coolant level daily
- Clean radiator monthly
- Replace air filters as scheduled
- Never enclose generator completely
4. Exhaust System Fires
Cause: Hot exhaust igniting nearby materials
How it happens:
- Combustible materials near exhaust
- Exhaust leak spraying hot gases
- Failed exhaust insulation
- Dry grass or leaves near exhaust
Prevention:
- Clear 2-meter zone around exhaust
- Inspect exhaust system monthly
- Replace damaged exhaust components
- Keep area around generator clean
5. Refueling Fires
Cause: Fuel igniting during refueling
How it happens:
- Refueling while generator is running
- Refueling before engine cools
- Fuel spill on hot components
- Static discharge igniting fuel vapors
Prevention:
- ALWAYS turn off and let cool 5+ minutes
- Use proper fuel containers
- Use funnel to prevent spills
- Ground yourself before refueling
Fire Prevention Checklist
Installation Requirements
- Minimum 1.5m clearance on all sides
- Non-combustible surface (concrete ideal)
- No overhead combustibles within 3 meters
- Fire extinguisher within 5 meters
- Clear access for emergency response
Daily Checks
- Visual inspection for fuel leaks
- Check oil level (low oil = overheating)
- Verify cooling system functioning
- Check for debris around generator
- Ensure fire extinguisher accessible
Weekly Checks
- Inspect fuel lines and connections
- Check electrical connections for heat damage
- Verify exhaust system integrity
- Clean any fuel or oil spills
- Test emergency shutdown
Monthly Checks
- Thorough fuel system inspection
- Electrical connection tightening
- Exhaust system inspection
- Cooling system service
- Fire extinguisher inspection
Fire Extinguisher Requirements
Type of Extinguisher
For generator fires, you need:
- Class B: For flammable liquid fires (fuel)
- Class C: For electrical fires
Best choice: ABC dry powder extinguisher (covers all types)
Size Recommendations
- Residential generator: 2kg minimum
- Commercial generator: 4.5kg minimum
- Industrial generator: 9kg minimum
Placement
- Within 5 meters of generator
- Easily accessible
- Not behind the generator
- Protected from weather
- Clearly marked
Maintenance
- Monthly visual inspection
- Annual professional service
- Replace after use (even partial)
- Replace every 5-10 years
Emergency Response Procedures
If You Discover a Generator Fire
Small, contained fire (flames under 1 meter):
- Alert others to clear the area
- If safe, turn off generator (use emergency stop)
- Cut fuel supply if accessible
- Use fire extinguisher: PASS method
- Pull pin
- Aim at base of flames
- Squeeze handle
- Sweep side to side
- Call fire brigade even if extinguished
Large fire or spreading:
- Evacuate everyone immediately
- Call fire brigade: 999 or local number
- Do NOT attempt to fight
- Meet firefighters to inform them of fuel location
- Do not re-enter area
After a Fire
- Do not restart generator
- Have professional inspection
- Document damage for insurance
- Determine cause before replacement
- Review prevention measures
Special Considerations for Kenya
Dry Season Fire Risk
During dry season (January-March, July-October):
- Fire risk is significantly higher
- Clear dry grass/vegetation around generator
- Extra vigilance with fuel handling
- Consider spark arrestor on exhaust
Rainy Season Considerations
- Electrical risk increases with moisture
- Ensure weatherproof connections
- Check for water in fuel (fire risk when it boils)
- Protect generator from flooding
Urban vs Rural Settings
Urban/Residential:
- Close proximity to buildings increases spread risk
- Neighbors at risk - extra precaution needed
- Quick fire brigade response usually available
Rural/Agricultural:
- Dry vegetation increases fire spread
- Limited fire brigade access
- Larger fire extinguishers recommended
- Consider fire break around generator
Insurance and Liability
Documentation Required
Maintain records of:
- Professional installation certificate
- Regular maintenance logs
- Safety inspections
- Fire extinguisher service records
Common Insurance Exclusions
Policies may not cover fires caused by:
- Improper installation
- Lack of maintenance
- Operating contrary to manufacturer guidelines
- Unpermitted modifications
Liability Considerations
If generator fire spreads to neighbor's property:
- You may be liable for damages
- Proper installation documentation is crucial
- Consider umbrella liability coverage
Professional Fire Risk Assessment
Emerson EiMS offers fire risk assessments including:
- Installation safety review
- Fuel system inspection
- Electrical system check
- Emergency procedure development
- Staff training
Contact Us:
- Phone: +254 768 860 665 / +254 782 914 717
- Email: info@emersoneims.com
Protecting your investment and your safety across all 47 counties.