There’s nothing like the great outdoors—until your generator starts belching smoke next to your tent, or worse, won’t start at all.
A camping generator is a powerful ally in the wild, but if misused, it can become a fire hazard, noise nightmare, or carbon monoxide risk. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen.
Whether you’re glamping or roughing it in the bush, follow these camping generator safety tips to stay safe, sound, and fully charged.
1. Read the Manual—Seriously
It may sound obvious, but most people skip this. The manual isn’t just a collection of boring diagrams. It tells you exactly how to run your generator safely and efficiently.
Don’t guess. Don’t wing it. Don’t assume it’s like the one your uncle used in the ’90s.
2. Always Use Outdoors – No Exceptions
Generators produce carbon monoxide—a deadly, invisible gas. It doesn’t smell. It doesn’t warn you. And it can kill you in minutes.
Never run a generator inside a tent, caravan, or enclosed awning.
Even under a covered porch or inside a garage is too risky. Always place it in the open air, away from any sleeping areas.
3. Mind Your Distance
Position your generator at least 6 metres (20 feet) away from tents, RVs, or sleeping areas.
Also, keep it away from dry grass, bushland, or fuel containers. That hot exhaust can ignite flammable materials before you even notice.
Clear an area around the generator to make sure no dry leaves, debris, etc is close by.
4. Use a CO Alarm
For extra peace of mind, especially if you’re camping near your RV or tent, install a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector.
They’re cheap. They’re portable. And they might just save your life.
5. Keep It Dry (Generators Hate Water)
Water and electricity? Not friends.
Don’t operate your generator in the rain or near puddles. Use a generator tent or canopy if it might get wet—but always ensure it’s well-ventilated.
Never touch it with wet hands. Don’t run it barefoot. This isn’t the place to feel grounded.
6. Let It Cool Before Refuelling
You’re tired. You want to top it up and head to bed.
Stop. Wait. Breathe.
Let the generator cool down before adding fuel. Spilled petrol on a hot engine can ignite instantly. And your relaxing weekend can turn into a fireball.
7. Use Quality Fuel (And Store It Safely)
Old or contaminated fuel can clog your carburettor, damage your engine, and lead to dangerous sputtering or stalling.
Use clean, fresh unleaded petrol. If you’re using LPG or dual-fuel, check hose connections before every use.
Store fuel in approved containers, well away from heat and the generator itself. Never inside your tent.
8. Secure Cords and Connections
Loose cords can trip people—or worse, pull the generator over.
Use heavy-duty outdoor-rated extension cords and ensure they’re:
- Not frayed or cracked
- Laid flat and taped down if needed
- Plugged into the correct outlets
Also, avoid overloading the generator. Know your running watts vs starting watts and stick within limits.
9. Watch the Weather
Generators don’t like extreme conditions.
If it’s stormy, windy, or extremely dusty, consider delaying use.
Sand and grit can clog filters.
Lightning and water? Not your friends.
10. Stay Noise Aware
While this isn’t strictly “safety,” it matters.
Excessive generator noise can ruin your campsite—and your reputation.
Most campgrounds have noise curfews. A roaring generator at midnight may lead to conflict, or even fines.
Choose a quiet inverter generator if you plan to camp near others.
11. Fire Extinguisher = Must-Have
Always carry a Class B or multi-purpose fire extinguisher rated for fuel and electrical fires.
Mount it near your generator or cooking area.
Hope you never need it. But if you do, you’ll be glad it’s there.
12. Maintenance Matters
Safety isn’t just about usage—it’s also about ongoing care.
Before each trip:
- Check oil and fuel levels
- Inspect spark plugs and air filters
- Look for fuel leaks or loose wires
After the trip:
- Drain fuel (if not using stabiliser)
- Clean and store in a dry place
- Cover with a breathable generator cover
A well-maintained generator is a safe one.
13. Ventilation: Not Optional
If you’re using a generator near an RV or van, make sure your intake vents are closed, and exhaust vents are open and away from the unit.
CO can creep into vents and windows without you knowing.
14. Let It Rest
Don’t run your generator non-stop for 24 hours. Even models rated for extended runtime need breaks.
Let it cool every few hours and check oil levels. It’ll last longer and stay safer.
15. Use Surge Protectors
Sudden power spikes can damage your devices—and even cause electrical shorts.
Use surge protectors or generator-friendly transfer switches to protect electronics and prevent sparks or overheating.
Final Thought: Respect the Power
Camping generators give you freedom—freedom to camp longer, cook better, and stay connected.
But they also carry risk if ignored or misused.
With a little preparation, a dose of caution, and a healthy respect for the machine, your generator will be a safe and reliable companion on every camping trip.
Stay safe. Camp smart. And enjoy the wild without worry.
