Is Your Church Safe in the Snow?

"A historical church that's among the few that survived the Great Chicago Fire sustained extensive damage from this week's blizzard. 

The roof of First Baptist Congregational Church, at 1613 W. Washington, collapsed from the weight of the snow damaging the church's exterior and interior."

Source: http://www.nbcchicago.com/weather/stories/Blizzard-Damages-Chicago-Landmark-115275724.html#ixzz1D1c8hMLN

I noticed several recent articles in the news regarding churches that sustained damage due to the heavy snow fall. A large part of the nation received extensive snow fall this past week. I thought that this would serve as a good reminder to make sure that your church facility is ready for the winter weather. If your area experiences heavy snow fall make it a priority to have someone safely remove excess snow from the roof of your building. Many churches (especially older ones) can not hold the added weight for an extended period of time.

Another Church Roof Collapse

"MADISON TWP. — The Poasttown First Church of God’s fellowship hall will be silent this Sunday for the first time in 12 years after its roof caved into the building."


http://www.middletownjournal.com/news/middletown-news/roof-collapses-at-church-miracle-no-one-got-hurt-557504.html?showComments=true


I was tempted not to post about another church roof collapsing; however, I felt that maybe one more story would help illustrate my point... Folks you need to make sure that your churches have a safe roof system. If you live in an area that has experienced significant snow fall then you must take this into consideration. The weight from a large amount of snow will eventually cause the support beams to collapse and the roof to come down with it. Please pay extra attention if you happen to have a flat roof. This aids in snow buildup and is normally harder for snow to melt due to clogged and frozen drain pipes. 

One Dead in Roof Collapse

"CLINTON - One person is dead and two more were in critical condition after the trusses of a church roof under construction collapsed Thursday afternoon."

Read More: http://www.fayobserver.com/Articles/2010/02/19/977465

Church Roof Collapses with Weight of Snow

This story is one of many regarding churches who have had their roofs collapse due to the weight of the snow that has been left on them. The Mid-Atlantic is getting blasted again with its second blizzard in one week. Unfortunately, there is not much you can do to prevent this from occurring now. It is not safe to crawl up on your roof during or even right after the storm. The best thing you can do it take initial precautions and make sure your facility has a good strong roof before a storm strikes. In the event that you notice sever leaking or it you notice the roof dipping, evacuate the building and have it evaluated as soon as the appropriate contractors can make it your your facility. http://www.thebaynet.com/news/index.cfm/fa/viewstory/story_ID/16671