Winter weather conditions can interrupt a municipality’s service to its residents. Before a threat of winter weather occurs, municipalities should implement the best practices that can decrease or prevent damages and ensure safety.
Here are some best practices for preparing for winter weather:
- Implement a winterization plan to insulate pipes, seal windows and inspect heating systems, including vacant and unoccupied buildings.
- Turn off water and open valves to prevent freezing in water lines.
- Inspect and review all property that winter weather can impact, such as roofs, gutters and drains.
- De-ice walk ways and outdoor areas when facing the threat of frozen precipitation.
- Review and communicate the emergency response plan for winter weather emergencies.
- Train employees on winter weather safety protocols.
- Monitor weather forecasts.
- Trim tree limbs overhanging buildings or fences.
- Clean gutters and downspouts.
- Encourage safe driving practices during winter weather conditions.
Those municipalities that sustain damage from a winter weather event should contact the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund as soon as possible after a loss to submit a claim, even if they are not sure of the extent of your loss. Submit claims using the claims intake module found at www.masc.sc. All claims must be reported within 30 days of the date of loss.
After a loss, please make every effort to secure any damaged property to prevent further loss. For example, secure leaking roofs with plastic or tarps, cover damaged property and take photos of the property. If the municipality must dispose of property, please properly document the loss by photographs and lists describing the property.
Contact Mike Waslewski, SCMIRF claims manager, for any questions regarding claims service or procedures at mwaslewski@masc.sc or 803.933.1272.