Weight Of Snow Continues To Cause Buildings To Collapse

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The weight of the snow continues to cause roofs and other structures to collapse.

Marcus Washington has more on the concerns.

Another roof collapse, this time at Parkville Middle School in Baltimore County.

"Typically, we either see a catastrophic failure or we see a minor failure. This was a minor failure," said John Bryan, Baltimore County Chief Fire Protection Engineer.

Bryan says the collapse reported Monday night happened in the cafeteria area near the serving line.

He was on top of the roof Tuesday near the portion where it collapsed, and says there are 32 inches of snow--well within the weight limits that roof should be able to handle.

RELATED: Partial Roof Collapse Reported at Parkville Middle School

"Major snows, even a record-breaking snow storm, is pretty much within the limits--especially on a temporary basis," said Bryan.

Another collapse reported--this one at a government office building in Pikesville. Sky Eye Chopper 13 reveals the damage to its roof.

Snow-related collapses have been reported since the blizzard passed; from Baltimore County in the Rosedale area to a church in Montgomery County.

So, how can you determine if your roof is in danger of collapsing?

"You start listening for signs like your doors are hard to open or close, creaking or cracking sounds, roof leaking--it's time to get out of the building, get away from it and call 911, get the fire department there and let us do an assessment," said Bryan.

Bryan says Parkville Middle is safe for students to return.

He also had advice for people trying to clean snow off their roofs--he says use a ladder or a snow rake, or better yet, leave it to the professionals.