Winter weather - ice storms - power failures: plan ahead
TheAdvisors@GuthrieInsurance.com
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.