If you have flat roof, look for warning signs of potential collapse

If you’re thinking of climbing up on your roof to shovel the snow off, it’s not a good idea, as the additional weight could cause the roof to collapse. The Fairfax County government has put out a bulletin on snow and roof safety, an increasingly important issue, as flat roofs could be in danger of caving in under two feet of snow.

The roof of the Baileys Crossroads fire station partially collapsed early Monday morning, while engineers are assessing the safety of the roof on the Annandale fire station, which was showing signs of instability.

The county urges the owners of homes or commercial buildings with flat roofs to monitor the ceiling below and look for signs of roof distress, such as sagging, cracks, and popping or cracking sounds. If you notice any of these warning signs, evacuate immediately.