The National Weather Service forecasts that impacts from Hurricane Irene may reach the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area this weekend, bringing tropical storm or hurricane conditions that include heavy rain and strong winds. In preparation for the stormy weather, the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) is advising all builders, contractors, developers, and property owners to secure their construction sites and buildings.

Property owners must consider the safety of their buildings and construction sites, cranes, scaffolding, hoists, and any other building appurtenances that may come loose under heavy winds and rain. Structures that have been subject to deferred maintenance or in delicate condition could be at greater risk. DCRA strongly suggests consulting a professional to advise how to safely secure construction sites and buildings.

To secure construction sites, builders, contractors, and developers should take all precautionary measures, including:

• Tie down and secure material and loose debris at construction sites to reduce the potential for them becoming projectiles.
• Cover electrical equipment from exposure to the weather.
• Store loose tools, oil cans and extra fuses in a tool box.
• Secure netting, scaffolding and sheds.
• Suspend crane operations and secure crane equipment when wind speeds reach 30 mph.
• Suspend hoist operations and secure exterior hoists when wind speeds reach 35 mph, unless manufacturer specifications state otherwise.
• Brace and secure construction fences.
• Secure all windows.
  

To secure a building, property owners should take all precautionary measures, including:

• Bring inside loose, lightweight objects such as lawn furniture, potted plants, garbage cans, garden tools and toys.
•  Anchor large outdoor object, such as gas grills or propane tanks, that could become unstable in high winds.
•  Close up and secure patio umbrellas.
•  Remove retractable awnings.
•  Clear rooftop drains and gutters.
•  Secure all windows.
•  Remove aerial antennas and satellite television dishes.

District residents are encouraged to call 311 to report non-compliant conditions or 911 to report emergencies at construction sites or buildings.

Under D.C. law, property owners are legally obligated to maintain their properties in safe condition. This weather advisory is provided by the District government strictly a courtesy to remind property owners to prepare their properties for inclement weather and cannot be read to suggest that DCRA or the District government, rather than the property owner, is responsible for maintaining his or her property.