Dover Fire and Rescue urges property owners to check roofs for excessive snow

posted on: 2/19/2015

After recent storms left significant snowfall in Dover, and with wet, heavy snow expected this weekend, Dover Fire Chief Richard Driscoll reminds residents to check their roofs for excessive snow. Roofs with heavy snow can be at risk of collapsing.

"The snow expected this weekend will be heavier and wetter than what we've seen this winter," Driscoll said. "Because the snow may also be accompanied by some rain, roofs may be at greater risk as the weight of accumulated snow and ice increases."

Driscoll recommends clearing snow from a roof if more than two feet has accumulated. For those not able or uncomfortable removing snow, Driscoll suggests consulting with a roofing company or properly insured contractor.

Some other tips include:

• Keep all chimneys and vents clear to prevent carbon monoxide from backing up into the building. Some vents, such as pellet stove vents, may exit the building through a wall and are susceptible to being blocked by excessive snow buildup on the outside of the building;
• Keep all exits clear of snow, so that occupants can escape quickly if a fire, or other emergency, should occur. Keep in mind that windows should be cleared to allow a secondary means of escape in case the primary means of escape is blocked by fire. Keeping exits clear also allows emergency workers to access your building.

A roof may collapse with little or no warning, Driscoll added, and one common misconception is that only flat roofs are susceptible to collapse. High roof parapets can accumulate significant drifting snow, especially during wind events. The following warning signs could indicate a roof is in danger of collapsing:

• Sagging roof steel – visually deformed;
• Severe or new roof leaks;
• Cracked or split wood members;
• Bends or ripples in metal supports;
• Recent cracks in walls, drywall or masonry;
• Cracks in welds of steel construction;
• Sheared off screws from steel frames;
• Sprinkler heads pushed down below ceiling tiles;
• Doors that pop open;
• Doors or windows that are difficult to open;
• Bowed utility pipes or conduits attached to the ceiling;
• Creaking, cracking or popping sounds.

Driscoll said property owners should also check roof drains and gutters and make sure they are clear of snow and ice.

Motorists should also use caution, Driscoll said, as storm drains may also be covered with snow and ice, obstructing drainage and causing water to pool on or near roadways. If possible, residents are asked to help shovel street drains and fire hydrants.

For more information about fire and building safety, call Dover Fire and Rescue at 516-6148.