Prepare For Ice and Rain

A Press Release from The Connecticut State Police Public Infromation Office:

As another winter storm approaching Connecticut brings the potential for a mix of rain, ice and snow to fall atop existing snow, Public Safety Commissioner James Thomas, and the State Building Inspector are encouraging homeowners and businesses to ensure their roof drains are free of ice and any blockage to minimize the risks to flat roofs and decks.

are also asking residents to clear catch basins to allow for melting snow and rain to drain as well to clear access to fire hydrants.

“The storm [through] Wednesday morning is likely to bring ice, rain and snow – liquid precipitation can add significantly to the weight of the existing snow that has already fallen,” Thomas said. “The biggest problems are for homes and businesses with flat roofs and for structures like decks where the rainfall we are expecting can add as much as 60 percent to the weight they are already
carrying. Increased rainfall could add even more weight – and boost the risk of
failure correspondingly.

“The best steps people can take right now are to inspect their drains and to stay alert,” Thomas said. “People with concerns about their roof loads should contact their local building official, or in case of emergency, their local .” The office of State Fire Marshal and Office of State building inspector will be prepared to assist any local officials.

Local and state officials will continue to monitor the storm in Connecticut and
Connecticut citizens need to pay strict attention to the volume of snow and ice on their homes and businesses.