Winter weather - ice storms - power failures: plan ahead

Preparation

• Check heating systems ahead for proper operation and service as needed.
• Have a plan to know how to respond to a lengthy power failure and loss of heat.
• Have a plan ready for keeping drains clear and removing excessive snow loads from the roof.
• Line up appropriate licensed sprinkler contractors, plumbing contractors and electricians, in the event of need.

Protection

When a power failure disrupts the delivery of heat for several hours to several days and the temperature in the building falls below 0.

• Shut off and completely drain all fire sprinkler systems.
• Notify the local fire department and alarm company that you have shut off your fire sprinkler system(s).
• Drain fire sprinklers installed on suspended ceiling areas especially over valuable items and equipment.
• Turn off automatic diesel fire pumps and start manually to conserve fuel.
• Shut down hazardous operations, such as welding and torch cutting, while sprinklers are off.
• Provide a constant fire watch of trained personnel for all areas while the sprinklers are off.
• Shut off and completely drain the domestic water and heating piping systems.
• Operate portable heating systems in accordance with safe use and manufacturer instructions.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions in operating emergency generators, installed by licensed electricians.
• Clear all roof drains, gutters and scuppers.
• Clear snow and ice from roof (if done safely) if there is a roof/building collapse potential.

Recovery

• After the event is over and the power restored:
• Inspect and repair all fire sprinkler, domestic water and heating system piping before restoring them to service.
• Keep around the clock surveillance even after restoring for additional damage as piping begins to thaw.
• Do not use open flames, lamps or other high temperature devices to thaw frozen pipes.
• Restore all fire sprinkler, domestic water and heating system piping to service.
• Notify the fire department and the alarm company that the systems are back in service.
• Maintain the weather watch. Watch for rainstorms which can cause pooling and collapse.
• Take measures to ensure all roof drainage is in service.
• Watch for post storm drifting on roofs and remove the extra weight, if this can be done safely.
• Clear fire lanes, fire hydrants, fire sprinkler valves, process valves, gas shutoffs, etc of snow accumulations.
• esume normal safe operations.