Rocky Mountain Snow Guards is marking its second annual National Snow Guards Safety Month in March, promoting awareness of roof snow retention systems in regions prone to heavy snowfall.

The company said the campaign focuses on educating property owners about the risks posed by accumulated snow sliding from rooftops and the importance of properly installed and maintained snow guards.

“A properly installed and well-maintained snow guard system on a home can help save lives and prevent property damage,” said Brian Cross, operations manager at the Englewood, Colo.-based manufacturer. “Accumulating snow on roofs can come sliding off in one mass sheet. This is dangerous for people, pets and landscaping below.”

Cross encouraged roofing contractors to recommend annual inspections of snow retention systems after winter. He said systems should be checked for movement or damage caused by snow loads, along with a broader roof inspection.

The Colorado Avalanche Information Center reported 1,095 avalanches in the state so far this season. Over the past 30 years, five people have died in roof avalanches in Colorado, according to the agency. The most recent fatal incident occurred March 16, 2023, when a father and two children were buried; one child died.

In a statement supporting the safety month, Theresa Blake Graven, public information officer for the National Avalanche Center and the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, said roof avalanches pose an ongoing risk in mountain communities.

“Roof avalanches pose a serious risk every year in mountain communities,” Graven said. “It’s critical to stay aware of snow-loaded roofs, minimize time spent beneath them, and keep a shovel nearby in case of an emergency.”

CAIC advises residents to monitor snow buildup on roofs, avoid standing directly beneath roof edges and keep entryways clear.