FREDERICTON (GNB) – Following the latest snow storm to hit New Brunswick, the province’s Fire Marshal is urging residents to have their roofs cleared and to make sure exhaust vents are clear of snow and ice.

“With the recent heavy snowfall we see the possibility of heavy snow loads,” said Douglas Browne, fire marshal. “The amount of snow that has accumulated brings risks of roof collapse, fire, explosion and carbon monoxide poisoning related to fuel heating systems.”

Past fire investigations have determined that gas service to some buildings has been damaged due to heavy snow loads and from snow sliding off roofs and onto gas meters and components. Also, snow sliding off roofs and onto outside oil tanks has caused valves and filters to be broken off.

The Office of the Fire Marshal urges all residents to do the following:

  • Clear roofs of excessive snow and ice buildup, being careful not to damage gas and oil service to the building. Clearing the roof can be dangerous so residents are advised to leave this work to professionals.
  • 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.
  • Ensure that you have a working carbon monoxide (CO) detector in your home. This is your first line of defence against this colorless, odorless, toxic, flammable gas formed by the incomplete burning of natural gas and any other material containing carbon such as gasoline, kerosene, oil, propane or wood.
  • 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 gain access to your building.

Be aware that a roof may collapse with little or no warning. The following warning signs could indicate that you have a danger of roof collapse. You should immediately evacuate the building and notify your local building official, fire department or contact a structural engineer to determine if the building is safe if you observe the following:

  • 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; or
  • creaking, cracking or popping sounds.

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16-02-15