Cold weather precautions for buildings

Cold temperatures can cause the contraction and expansion of pipe material.

Please to be certain that you maintain the temperature in diocesan buildings to prevent pipes from freezing. The temperature should be increased to at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit in our buildings throughout extreme cold spells.

Special attention needs to be given to unoccupied buildings, the thermostat should be set to at least 55 degree Fahrenheit or higher. These buildings need to be checked on a daily basis during this cold spell to locate any pipes which may have burst. Be sure that you know the location of all of your water shut off valves this will stop the flow of water as soon as possible.

Remember that the use of space heaters pose a significant fire hazard during these cold spells. Their use should be limited in open areas and kept under close scrutiny.

In the event you sustain any damage to your building structure or in the event someone is injured on your property, the loss/accident MUST BE reported to Gallagher Bassett Services: 24/7 call center: 1-877-509-3503. Your report will start the process of opening a file to handle the claim.

If you need immediate assistance to stabilize, dry out a building structure, the Diocese has engaged the services of a full service emergency disaster response company, BMS CAT. They can be contacted by calling: 1-800-433-2940. BMS CAT will work in conjunction with Gallagher Bassett Services to handle your property damage claim.

Emergency phone numbers for the police and fire department should be readily available.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call Rich Ziccardi, 973-77-8818, Ext. 225.