Roof Collapse Warning Signs
Posted on Thu, Feb 10, 2011
As a result of the incredible amounts of snow and ice accumulated so far this winter, there have been over 100 roof collapses to both residential and commercial buildings throughout Massachusetts.
Acting Chief of the Auburn Fire Department, Steven Coleman, has suggested being on the lookout for the following signs for potential building collapse.
• Severe roof leaks
• Sagging roof steel – visually deformed
• Cracked or split wood members
• Bends or ripples in metal supports
• Cracks in walls or masonry
• Cracked 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 conduit attached at ceiling
• Creaking, cracking or popping sounds
To minimize collapse or damage, Chief Coleman recommends:
• Contacting a structural engineer to evaluate the building
• If safe to do so, remove snow but do not block exits to and from the building. Also keep snow clear from fire hydrants.
• Initiate emergency actions such as removing mobile equipment, covering equipment with plastic, backing-up computer systems, etc
In the event of a roof collapse, immediately call 911.
Another concern with the massive snow accumulation is carbon monoxide. Be sure to remove snow and ice away from vents, including dryer vents and power vents. Massachusetts requires all homes to have carbon monoxide detectors.