Snow, Rain Pose Potential Roof Collapse Problems For Mass. Homeowners, Business Owners
BOSTON (CBS) - With snow and rain falling this weekend, the risk of roof collapses is a growing concern for Massachusetts homeowners and business owners.
The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency has received more than 100 reports of full and partial roof collapses over the past several days.
Additionally, the Department of Fire Services has received multiple reports of gas leaks and fires caused by snow and icicles falling on gas lines and meters.
MEMA is strongly encouraging homeowners and businesses to have snow and ice removed from roofs.
"In many instances, the risks posed by accumulated snow can be mitigated by safely removing snow from roofs Flat and low pitched roofs, most often found on industrial buildings, but also used in certain home designs, are at the greatest risk of buckling under heavy snow and ice accumulations," reads the statement.
Gloucester resident Heidi Warford is taking the time to clear her roof ahead of more snowfall.
"Trying to get rid of the ice and snow because I heard we might be getting rain so it might just act like a sponge and make it heavier," she said.
Warford is not only shoveling snow but attacking ice dams.
"My son told me to put some ice melt on the edge, let it work and then hit it with a hammer and then once it starts melting it's easier and you don't wreck the roof," she said.
Thomas Gatzunis, public safety commissioner for MEMA, says homeowners need to be cautious while clearing their roofs.
"We don't want people climbing ladders if they aren't used to climbing (on them)," he said, adding that homeowners should call a contractor to handle the project if they believe they have more than a foot of snow.