Prep for Cold when its Warm

We’ve compiled a list of things your team can do way in advance of cold weather to minimize damage on your property and in your buildings:

• Roof Inspection: One of the first steps in winter preparation is to have a qualified professional inspect your entire roof. This inspection should ensure that the roof surface, flashings, caulking, and sealants are watertight. A well-maintained roof can prevent leaks and water damage during the winter months.

• Gutters and Drains: It's essential to clear gutters, downspouts, and drains of any debris that could trap water, ice, or snow on the roof. Blocked gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause significant damage to your roof and building structure.

• Outdoor Steps and Hand Railings: Check that outdoor steps and hand railings are in good shape to help prevent slips and falls on slippery walkways. Ensuring these areas are well-maintained can reduce the risk of accidents during icy conditions.

• Draft Areas: Seal draft areas around doors and windows and replace worn weatherstripping. This step helps to keep the cold air out and the warm air in, making your building more energy-efficient and comfortable for occupants.

• Insulation: Adding extra insulation to ceilings and walls where needed can significantly improve your building's ability to retain heat. Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a consistent indoor temperature and reducing heating costs.

• Water Hoses: Detach, coil, and store water hoses off the floor to prevent mildew growth. Proper storage of hoses ensures they remain in good condition and ready for use when needed.

• Plumbing Pipe Insulation: Insulate pipes exposed to extreme cold to prevent them from freezing. Pipe insulation is a simple yet effective way to avoid the inconvenience and expense of burst pipes.

Protecting Your Buildings When Bad Weather is Near

Cold snap or winter storm is predicted:

• Turn up the heat to above 55 degrees. Check the thermostat in all areas of your building to ensure the heat is on (especially in unused areas) and to double check the setting is at least 55 degrees.

• Prop open room doors and cabinet doors beneath sinks to keep heat circulating throughout the building.

• Let faucets drip to keep water moving inside pipes.

• Locate your water supply valves. If a pipe bursts, time is critical. Know where valves are located for all buildings. Keep the tools to close the valves nearby. Be sure to include areas with baptisteries, laundry rooms, and water heaters in your search.

• Get to know your sprinkler system. Monitor your systems using a central station that provides early detection of a pipe failure. Make sure to maintain the temperature in the control rooms.

• Prep the generator. The goal is to maintain heat in the building when a big freeze takes down power lines.

• Keep emergency numbers close. Create a list of numbers that includes your insurance agent, plumber, water restoration company, heating contractor, electrician, and utility companies.

If wind or heavy ice also is predicted — here are more actions you can take to prevent or minimize damage:

• Move vehicles off the lot and away from trees. A concrete parking garage is best, if possible. If not, allow staff to take home vehicles to spread your risk of damage.

• Prevent damage from high winds. Before a storm, verify that sign connections are adequate or remove the sign and safely store it. Store outdoor equipment in a safe location. Identify and remove trees and branches that could fall on the building walls or roof, or on power lines.

If heavy snow also is predicted:

• Clear gutters of debris to allow melting snow to drain. Obstructions cause “ice dams” that block drainage and damage your roof. Check drains on flat roofs and remove leaves and other material.

• Clear the snow and ice. Keep an eye on the roof when snow piles up. If an excessive amount falls, or the snow is blocked from sliding down the roof, it may be time to act. Either use a long-handled roof rake or call a licensed contractor to remove it safely. Don’t climb onto the roof to remove snow. Climbing onto an already stressed and slick roof can be dangerous.

Freezing weather also creates dangerous sidewalks and lots:

• Develop a snow removal plan to keep all parking lots, walkways, and entrances free of ice and snow. A clear and accessible path is vital for the safety of your staff and visitors.

• Designate staff and/or volunteers in advance to clear sidewalks and parking lots of snow. Put snow shovels, salt, and entryway mats in easy-to-access locations.

Posted February 2022
This is a sample document only. Your organization is responsible for compliance with all applicable laws. Accordingly, this checklist should not be used or adopted by your organization without first being reviewed and approved by a licensed attorney in your state. Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company assumes no liability in the preparation and distribution of this checklist.