ROCKVILLE, Md. — A Rockville family has been displaced after a fire broke out at their home Tuesday evening, sparked by a portable generator powered by lithium-ion batteries.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue crews were dispatched around 8 p.m. to the 11800 block of Rocking Horse Road, near Red Fox Road, following reports of thick black smoke coming from the residence. According to department spokesperson Pete Piringer, the fire engulfed the rear portion of the home, including the back porch. Approximately 75 firefighters responded to the scene.
At the property, officials encountered several fire risks, including the generator with charging lithium batteries, solar panels on the roof and in the yard, loose electrical wiring, hoarding conditions, and additional batteries. Fire investigators determined the portable generator was the cause of the fire.
Firefighters worked under intense conditions, with temperatures reaching 92 degrees and humidity at 65% around 8:20 p.m. The fire’s radiant heat even melted siding on a neighboring house. While the blaze was extinguished quickly, clutter and hazardous conditions inside the home made the response more difficult.
Montgomery County code enforcement is expected to investigate the home’s solar panel setup.
Two adults and three children were safely evacuated. No injuries were reported, but the family can no longer stay in the home due to extensive damage. The estimated cost of repairs is under $100,000.
The Electrical Safety Foundation International reminds the public that generators should never be operated indoors and must be kept at least 20 feet from any structure. Additional safety guidance is available on their website.
