GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) -- Firefighters worked to put out a fire Tuesday afternoon that may have been caused by a generator running too close to a home, the Grand Rapids Fire Department said.

It happened just before 1:30 p.m. at a multi-family home on Dawes Avenue SE off of Kalamazoo Avenue SE on Grand Rapids' southeast side. Firefighters arrived to find heavy black smoke coming from the roof and the walls of the back of the building on fire.

Investigators believe a generator being used close to the building may have been the cause.

When using a generator, firefighters recommend keeping it outdoors.

"Keep it away from your home, at least as far as you can. No closer than 15-20 feet really. Keep it away from windows and doors. And be aware that not only are they an ignition source should something go wrong with the unit, but they also produce carbon monoxide that can get in to your home and that is a silent killer so please be aware. The use of generators can be a very useful tool, however, recognize they do pose an ignition risk to your home," said GRFD Fire Marshal Bill Smith.

Since generators create toxic engine exhaust, firefighters encourage installing a working carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home. Keep them dry and protected from rain or flooding, since touching a wet generator can cause electrical shock. Connect them to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords and allow them to cool before refueling, firefighters say.

Smith said one firefighter was taken to the hospital with a back injury and a family pet died in the fire. The fire marshal is investigating.