Orillia has received record snowfall this winter, causing damage to roofs, decks, and gas lines. The city has seen more than 460 centimetres of snow. It’s also been the city’s snowiest February, with at least 180.8 cm recorded as of Feb. 18, surpassing the amount documented in 2007 (140.8 cm).
Orillia Fire Chief Chris Ferry says that they’re still dealing with different types of incidents, including responding to damaging snow loading early in the morning of March 5, and to another call at a local hotel where a roof had collapsed. “It was covering a large generator for the hotel,” he says, noting that snow load had fallen and pulled the gas line off the building, causing a large gas leak.
One of the buildings in the downtown core also experienced a roof collapse last week, he says. Multiple smaller roofs and decks have also been damaged. “Another other issue we’re finding is with the snow and ice overhanging, large chunks of ice are coming off and damaging the gas meters or the lines, and causing gas leaks.”
Ferry reports that no injuries have resulted from these incidents, however homeowners, cottage owners, and business owners should exercise caution. “If you’re concerned with the amount of snow on your roof, have a professional company come have a look, and if they recommend to have it cleared, then have it cleared.” He also says to make sure exhaust vents are clear; a blocked exhaust vent can lead to carbon monoxide in the home.
Some boat owners in the Orillia area have also been impacted by the massive amounts of February snow. The steel roof of a boathouse at Starport Marina in Ramara Township, for example, recently collapsed under snow load; it was housing roughly 30 boats. (Although contacted, the marina did not respond to emails or phone calls before this article was published.)
With many neighbourhoods in Orillia still buried in snow, some locals are pitching in to help the fire department. Local resident Steven Bergeron has volunteered to clear fire hydrants. “I volunteered because even though I know that I can’t directly serve in the fire department myself, I know how small our departments are,” he says. “I know how busy they are, and there are other ways I can help them out.”
Know of a hydrant that needs to be cleared? Send an online request.
Related Story Take a tour of Iceopolis, an ice sculpture garden created by Waterloo resident Robert Aitkin
Related Story Ontario is facing a road salt shortage amidst a snow-heavy winter
Related Story 3 reasons why you need this cottage roof de-icing system