Providence - February 2, 2011
Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts, Chair of the Emergency Management Advisory Council, joins the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) in reminding Rhode Islanders that roof collapse continues to be of high concern. The amount of recent snowfall that is piling up could weaken roof structure and cause a collapse. Homeowners and business owners should be mindful of the risk of personal injury to themselves and occupants before removing snow from roofs. Consult a contractor or home improvement professional for help in assessing the need for snow removal.
"After the recent roof collapse of the Paine elementary school in Foster, "roof load" continues to be a serious concern as additional snow will accumulate throughout today and tomorrow, said Lt. Governor Roberts. "Homeowners and business owners should take the time to look at their roofs now. If there appears to be a concern, don't delay in consulting a contractor or home improvement professional because this situation could become worse in the next 24 hours," advised Roberts.
RIEMA is posting the latest information on its website at www.riema.ri.gov, including an OSHA Job Site Safety Handbook with a section on Working on Roofs.