In yesterday’s post and today’s broadcasts, we outlined the threat of roof collapses. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency follows suit with an advisory today:

MEMA POSTS ROOF COLLAPSE & STORM DRAIN WARNING INFORMATION
Snow Buildup & Subsequent Heavy Rain Can Present Dangers

FRAMINGHAM, MA – “If not reasonably cleared off the heavy, wet snow from the last storm piled on roofs can act as a sponge, absorbing the expected rain, adding weight and stress to structures.” states Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Director Don Boyce. “Flat, commercial roofs are most susceptible if they are not draining properly. Additionally, MEMA encourages citizens to clear storm drains in their neighborhoods to minimize local flooding problems from this run-off.”

In many cases, roof ice dams can form causing water build-up, leading to interior damage. To minimize the risk of over-stressing a building roof due to accumulated or drifting snow:

· Be on the alert for large accumulating snow build-up on your roofs.

· If roof snow can be removed, from the ground, with the use of a snow rake (available at most hardware stores), do so. Use caution, as metal snow rakes conduct electricity if they come into contact with a power line.

· Try to avoid working from ladders, as ladder rungs tend to ice up. Snow and ice collect on boot soles, and metal ladders.

· Flat roofs can be shoveled clear, but only if it is determined that the roof is safe to stand upon. Exercise care when on the roof to avoid potentially dangerous falls.

· Flat roof drainage systems should be kept clear to minimize the risk of excess roof ponding in the event of subsequent heavy rainfall or melting.

· Large icicles can form on roof overhangs, but do not necessarily mean ice damming is occurring. Icicles overhanging doorways and walkways can be dangerous and should be carefully removed.

· All of the mentioned actions should only be performed by able-bodied adults, as the snow is heavy, and roofs and other surfaces may be slippery. Protective headgear and eye protection is recommended.

This roof collapse alert is issued by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), in conjunction with the State Board of Building Regulations and Standards.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is the state agency responsible for coordinating federal, state, local, voluntary and private resources during emergencies and disasters in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. MEMA provides leadership to: develop plans for effective response to all hazards, disasters or threats; train emergency personnel to protect the public; provide information to the citizenry; and assist individuals, families, businesses and communities to mitigate against, prepare for, and respond to and recover from emergencies, both natural and man made. For additional information about MEMA and Winter Preparedness, go to the MEMA website at www.mass.gov/mema. Follow further MEMA updates on Facebook and Twitter.