Risk Alerts

A Risk Alert is service designed to provide notice of a topic of concern or high risk to the facility, its operations or its people. Periodically, a Risk Alert or other communication is issued to our participants as a warning or reminder of a potential or imminent hazard. The goal is to educate and inform as well as provide useful and proactive measures to help you maintain your property and continue to provide a safe environment.

Please pay close attention to these alerts and distribute them to your staff so that they may implement the recommended actions. Your feedback on these communications is also helpful in improving this service and evaluating its impact.

2023-01, EXTREME COLD and Frozen Pipe Alert

February 1, 2023

A record-breaking cold snap is expected this weekend, increasing the risk for losses from frozen pipe damage, a leading cause of loss and expense for us.

Record low temperatures, possibly not seen since the 1950s, but certainly since 2015 – which was our worst winter for losses in our history – are expected beginning late Thursday or Friday and into Saturday morning. Sub-zero temperatures are expected in some areas as the “brutally cold” airmass arrives for a 36-hour period, with wind chill making it feel colder. Temperatures are expected to rebound by Sunday.

At this time, we you to take immediate precautions to protect your buildings from potentially costly damages.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

  • Considering the severity of this cold, keep thermostats set at 70°–72° F for the duration of this cold spell. This may temporarily increase your heating costs, but it’s a small price to pay to avoid more costly damage and inconvenience caused by frozen pipes.
  • Maintenance personnel should check facilities, ESPECIALLY UNOCCUPIED BUILDINGS, in the morning and evening each day throughout the weekend. Check for frozen lines by making sure water is flowing in the faucets and toilets. If you believe a line is frozen, shut off the water supply until a plumber arrives.
  • If you lose heat and are unable to restore heat, shut off the water supply and drain the pipes. This will prevent water from freezing and bursting the pipes. If you are unable to drain the pipes, open the taps a little to allow water to trickle out. If you choose this option, please monitor the taps on a regular basis.
  • The plumbing and heating contractors’ contact information should be shared with the facilities staff and immediately available. For full a list of service vendors, go to: https://rcabrisk.org/vendors.

Losses will increase insurance premiums for all locations. Please take action – frozen pipes can be prevented!

SPACE HEATER SAFETY

During cold periods, it is tempting to use portable space heaters for extra warmth. PLEASE USE CAUTION. If using a space heater, inspect it for safety – make sure it is functioning properly and that the cords are not frayed. Only use a space heater that automatically shuts off if it tips over. DO NOT USE EXTENSION CORDS WITH PORTABLE HEATERS – PLUG THEM DIRECTLY INTO THE WALL OUTLET. Keep the heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as paper, clothing, or furniture.

Reporting a Claim

If you experience property damage or injury as a result of the storm, report the claim immediately. Contact Alicia Gray at 781-664-3990, Alicia_gray@rcab.org. Again, for a full list of service vendors, go to: https://rcabrisk.org/vendors