With all the snowfall the Portage la Prairie area has received to this point in the winter, the Portage Fire Department reminds steps need to be taken to avoid roof damage or collapses.

"The significant snowfall this year has definitely created an increase for the potential of roof collapses," Deputy Fire Chief Dave Holmes says.

And the warmer temperatures aren't necessarily helping. While melting can reduce the total snow on a roof, it creates moisture and makes the snow and ice heavier and can increase the load.

"In flat or low slope roofs (conditions) can be more vulnerable obviously because we don't get that drainage off the roofs," Holmes explains. "In the Portage la Prairie area, we aren't aware of any reports so far of a roof collapse or partial collapse at all, although we have heard there were some in the surrounding areas."

Holmes says he recommends you monitor your snow levels on your roof, and remove any amount you're able to. He adds if it's too uncomfortable for you to do it yourself, there are professional snow removers in town who can facilitate that for you.

"If you're going to start removing snow off your roof, whether you're doing it from the ground or you're actually getting up onto that roof, be prepared," he says. "That snow can come down very quickly. If it does come down in large amounts all at once, there is significant weight to that snow. Ensure that you're safe, whether you're pulling it down or you're pushing it down. Obviously, there are risks of falling while up there ... take precautions."