Monitor Snow on Roofs

[Chris Santee]

Vermonters Reminded to Monitor Snow on Roofs
WATERBURY – A significant amount of heavy, wet snow has fallen in Vermont over the weekend, adding to an existing snow load from earlier in the week.  These conditions could lead to roof collapses; several have occurred in the state of Massachusetts over the past several days.  The problem is not widespread in Vermont, but the heavy snow could lead to problems.

Vermont Emergency Management, the Division of Fire Safety, and local fire departments would like to remind homeowners to be aware of snow loads on the roofs of their homes.

If you have a significant concern about an impending collapse, call a professional to inspect your roof, or you can keep an eye and ear out for some telltale signs.

Strange noises, cracking, or visible movement of rafters should be signs that your roof is headed for a collapse, but those signs won’t necessarily be there before a collapse.
Homeowners, businesses, and those who own barns are encouraged to remove snow from roofs that could be in danger of collapse, if it can be done so safely and without risk of injury.  Special attention should be paid to the height and slope of your roof and the possibility of injury in a fall.  Those who are not able to safely clear their roofs may choose to call a professional to do the work for them.

Residents should also be aware of the health hazards of moving such heavy snow.  Excessive snow removal can cause a range of health problems, from back injuries to heart attack, if not done in moderation.  Vermonters should not over exert themselves, and take frequent breaks from shoveling.

Vermonters who are able to help elderly neighbors and others who need assistance in removing snow are encouraged to do so.

[Chris Santee]

Vermonters Reminded to Monitor Snow on Roofs – Update
Town of Alburgh Reports CO Issues with Snow over Chimneys
**February 7, 2011 update:  The town of Alburgh contacted Vermont Emergency Management on Monday morning to report that two homes in that town had issues over the past day with snow over chimneys.  Two of them resulted in Carbon Monoxide issues in the homes.  Please contact Alburgh Fire Department for more details.

Homeowners should keep this in mind when monitoring snow on roofs.  ALL heating vents, particularly those at ground level, and chimneys should be checked to make sure they are not blocked by snow as exhaust from heating sources can come back into the home and cause Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning.  Get out of the home and call 911 if you suspect there is CO in your home.


February 6, 2011:
WATERBURY – A significant amount of heavy, wet snow has fallen in Vermont over the weekend, adding to an existing snow load from earlier in the week.  These conditions could lead to roof collapses; several have occurred in the state of Massachusetts over the past several days.  The problem is not widespread in Vermont, but the heavy snow could lead to problems.

Vermont Emergency Management, the Division of Fire Safety, and local fire departments would like to remind homeowners to be aware of snow loads on the roofs of their homes.

If you have a significant concern about an impending collapse, call a professional to inspect your roof, or you can keep an eye and ear out for some telltale signs.  Strange noises, cracking, or visible movement of rafters should be signs that your roof is headed for a collapse, but those signs won’t necessarily be there before a collapse.

Homeowners, businesses, and those who own barns are encouraged to remove snow from roofs that could be in danger of collapse, if it can be done so safely and without risk of injury.  Special attention should be paid to the height and slope of your roof and the possibility of injury in a fall.  Those who are not able to safely clear their roofs may choose to call a professional to do the work for them.

Residents should also be aware of the health hazards of moving such heavy snow.  Excessive snow removal can cause a range of health problems, from back injuries to heart attack, if not done in moderation.  Vermonters should not over exert themselves, and take frequent breaks from shoveling.

Vermonters who are able to help elderly neighbors and others who need assistance in removing snow are encouraged to do so.