by Frank Schroth – updated 8:42AM
Unless you are a dyed in the wool nature freak that relishes the beauty and vagaries of a ferocious New England winter you might not want to look out the window. because . . . it’s back. Better to get another cup of coffee and a book.
Here is the latest from the DPW, MPD and a caution of roofs from the Building Inspector. Milton has already received over 12″ of snow accoding to the Globe. It doesn’t look that bad to me but at this point I may be snow blind.
From the DPW rec’d ~8:00AM
The DPW is still listed as a High Priority Mission with MEMA to receive National Guard assistance in the form of heavy front-end loaders and trucks. These pieces of equipment are likely to arrive as early as Sunday 2/15.
From the MPD
SNOW EMERGENCY in effect Saturday @5:00pm.
NO parking in effect for all streets with limited exceptions. Adams St. East Milton Square until 11pm.
Parking will be restricted to the ODD side of Adams St in Milton Village and the ODD side of Eliot St and Central Ave in the Central Ave Business District until 11 pm. Further details and restrictions will follow.
You should monitor the MPD Facebook page for updates. We will repost as we become aware of them.
And then there is this from Joe Prondak, Milton’s Building Inspector
Good Day Everyone,
As we are about to receive additional snow, please be sure to make an assessment, or have an assessment made of current snow conditions on the roof(s) of your facility. Identify current areas of concern and have snow removed immediately, if warranted. Otherwise, make note of areas which currently see some excess and address these areas first, upon additional accumulation.
The snow we have received to date has been fairly dry and light. In many areas, the wind has blown away much of the accumulation from roofs, but at the same time, has caused drifting on some roof areas, which can lead to excess weight. Most conditions we have viewed thus far are not causing significant concern, but the threat of additional snow warrants more diligent efforts.
Here in Milton, we have seen one significant collapse of a building that enclosed a built in pool at a single family home. This was a wood frame structure, built in the 1980s. It had a low pitch, engineered truss roof. The building, fortunately was vacant at the time of the collapse but the owners were inside the building the day before. Given the age and design of this building, this collapse was most certainly unexpected.
In evaluating current snow conditions, it is important to pay particular attention to areas of drifted snow or areas where snow from one roof has slid down onto a lower, adjacent roof. Also, flat or low pitch roofs with snow accumulation can be particularly vulnerable. In some cases, it might be best to consult a structural engineer.
When clearing snow from roofs, it is important to have this task done by qualified professionals, following all OSHA safety guidelines. Do not attempt to use snow blowers on roofs. This is a dangerous task. Workers also need to be aware of mechanical equipment on roofs and particularly, where the electrical service to that equipment is located so as to not cause an electric shock hazard. Use ONLY plastic shovels. Also be aware of the location of any skylights on a roof to prevent “fall-thru”. Check that roof drains on flat roofs are clear and not frozen. Excessive “ponding” of water, due to melting snow and blocked roof drains can cause a greater hazard than the snow itself. While the outdoor air temperature won’t accommodate much melting right now, heat from inside the building escaping through the roof can. Beware of and remove icicles which can potentially fall on walks, drives or other public areas.
Below is a copy of a document put out by our Massachusetts Department of Public Safety which gives additional guidance on preventing roof collapses due to excessive snow. You can also visit www.fema.gov and search for document P-957 for even more helpful information.
Additionally, be sure to clear snow from all exit doors, exterior exit stairs and fire escapes.
Feel free to forward this email to anyone you think it may be helpful to.
Please be safe. Try to enjoy because we certainly cannot stop it!
(I do wish we could have gotten this out sooner!!!)
Sincerely,
Joseph Prondak
Milton Building Commissioner
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| Public Safety AdvisoryOn Potential Roof CollapsesDangers Associated With Heavy Snow Loads on RoofsThe recent prolonged cold weather and repeated snowstorms have contributed to severe roof load conditions. Compounding the situation is the short-term weather forecast of potentially two more snowstorms over the next few days.Homeowners, tenants, and businesses need to be cognizant of the danger posed by heavy snow loads on roofs, and the warning signs of potential structural weaknesses. In some instances, the risks posed by accumulated snow on roofs can be mitigated by safely removing snow from roofs of both commercial buildings and homes. Because temperatures are expected to remain cold for at least the next few days, and more snow may fall as early as this Thursday, efforts should be undertaken now to safely remove snow from roofs.
Removing snow from rooftops will minimize the likelihood of structural collapse. Flat and low pitched roofs, most often found on industrial buildings, but are also used in certain home designs, are at the greatest risk of buckling under heavy snow and ice accumulations. Lower roofs, where snow accumulates from higher roofs are also vulnerable.
Tips for Homeowners in removing snow and ice from roofs and other areas
Keep in mind that any metal tool could conduct electricity if it touches a power line. Also, metal tools will do more damage to your roof. Shovel snow from flat roofs throwing the snow over the side away from the building. Most plastic shovels are better, except for the ones with curved blades-those too will do some damage to your roof.
Tips for Homeowners in removing snow and ice from roofs and other areas
According to Meteorologist Tony Petrarca, a cubic foot of dry snow weighs about seven pounds, while a cubic foot of wet snow weighs anywhere from 12 to 18 pounds. So, if it’s possible, hire someone to help with all of the snow clearing. How to Recognize Problems with Roofs
Other Safety Tips for Homeowners
http://www.wtphelan.com/index.cfm/pid/10799/cdid/10903
http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/
Tips for businesses in removing snow and ice from roofs and other areas
Keep in mind that any metal tool could conduct electricity if it touches a power line. Also, metal tools will do more damage to your roof. Shovel snow from flat roofs throwing the snow over the side away from the building. Most plastic shovels are better, except for the ones with curved blades-those too will do some damage to your roof.
How to Recognize Problems with Roofs in Commercial Buildings
What to do if you have problems
What other assistance is available?
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| Sincerely,Department of Public Safety |
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