FMCSA phishing scam alert

Important message from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

FMCSA has been notified of a phishing scam that you may receive from the FMCSA “Assistant of Administration” claiming you need to “complete your most recent up-to-date membership License certificate.” If you receive any suspicious email from info@fmcsa.dot.gov or any other entity that you are not expecting or looks suspicious, please delete the email from your inbox. Once the email has been deleted, go into your deleted mail and delete it from your deleted mailbox. Doing this will limit the exposure of the phishing email.

Note that the only legitimate way to log in to the Training Provider Registry is via login.gov. Never enter your email address and password into a third-party website claiming to give you access to the Training Provider Registry. 

How can I tell if a website is an official government website? 

The .gov means it’s official.
Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

Check the URL for https://
The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

If you believe your city has already experienced a data breach or other cyber/privacy liability, contact LMCIT claims staff immediately at (800) 925-1122.

Can your city afford to skip a spring roof inspection?

Ahh, that sweet smell of spring! Spring brings beautiful flowers, warm weather, and potential problems with the roofs on your city buildings. The Minnesota winters of snow, rain, wind, and ice can take a toll on roofs, and you’ll want to make sure they keep you dry during summer storms. The warmer weather makes it easier and safer to inspect your roof and gutters and determine what needs to be done to get them back in good condition. Read below to find out what you should include in your spring roof maintenance.

Clean gutters and inspect downspouts

The first thing in your spring roofing inspection checklist is to get to work on your gutters and downspouts. Harsh winter weather can fill your gutter system with leaves, tree limbs, moss, and garbage. A blocked drainage system leads to overflows and structural damage, so it’s vital to clean it out each spring. Additionally, loose sections of the gutter should be secured, and damaged sections should be replaced right away.

Damaged downspouts can cause water leaks around your building. Make sure that you check your downspouts for damage from tree branches or ice dams and prune the tree branches hanging over your roof.

Inspect roof exteriors

A thorough inspection of the roof during the spring is a must. Your spring roofing inspection checklist must cover the following aspects:

• Damaged/missing shingles, cracks, tears, leaks.
  Take a note of missing, damaged, or worn-out shingles and ensure that you replace them immediately. A missing or damaged shingle can cause a water leak and, if not fixed, can damage the interiors of your building. For flat roofs, inspect scuppers, drains, penetrations, HVAC unit doors, and edge metal. Repair cracks, tears, and leaks. Make repairs to damaged portions of the roof as soon as possible to prevent them from causing even greater damage to your building.
• Mold growth.
  While doing a roofing inspection, actively look for signs of mold. If caught early, this can keep mold from seeping into the foundation of your building and save you from major issues. If you notice mold has spread over a large area, call your roofing professional for a thorough inspection.
• Damaged skylights.
  Inspect the seals around your skylights closely and make sure there is no damage to the roofing surface. If the seals are falling apart the chances of water leaks increase over time.
• General wear and tear.
  Look out for general wear and tear on your roof like loose or exposed nails, missing or damaged flashings, missing caulk, rusty metal flashings, and sagging areas. If you notice any of these conditions, make sure you get necessary repairs and replacements done so that your roof continues to protect your buildings.

Inspect roof interiors

Once you have thoroughly examined the exteriors of your roof, it is time to check the interiors for any damage, especially in the attic area. Grab a flashlight, or any other light, and inspect all the spaces in your attic for signs of water leaks or ventilation issues. In addition, look for water stains, cracks, and settling of foundation on interior walls and ceilings.

Protect your city investment by performing routine roofing maintenance and inspections. When you catch potential problems early, you prevent some bigger roof repairs and costly interior damage. You can even push roof replacements further into the future. It also gives you the opportunity to budget for big repairs or replacements early on, buying you time to save up for them.

Submitted by: Julie Jelen, Loss Control Consultant

Snow loading and roof collapse preparation

We’re in the middle of winter and snowstorms in Minnesota, so let’s talk about preventing snow
loading and roof collapses.  Adverse weather conditions can affect the structural integrity of buildings and can cause a partial or complete collapse.  You can minimize the risk of snow loading and roof collapse by planning, preparing, and taking prompt action to remove accumulated snow. 

The following safeguards can help prevent roof collapse:

• Continuously monitor winter storms and remove snow off roofs as soon as possible after each snowfall.
• Keep all drains clear and unblock debris (leaves, dirt, etc.) year round. The downspouts should also be clear.
• Keep the roof well maintained and do repairs/replacements as soon as required. 
• Keep workers trained and the proper equipment available for snow removal. 
• Keep an updated winter emergency response plan in effect, especially for snow removal. 
• Have a fall prevention plan that is compliant with local agency requirements before engaging in roof preparation activities.
• Confirm generators are in good condition and their fuel tanks are full. 
• Ensure fire hydrants and fire protection system control valves are visibly marked to avoid damage from snow removal equipment. 

After a snowfall

During a winter storm, it can be dangerous to be on the roofs. It is best to be prepared to take action after a snowfall.

• Do not allow unauthorized workers/persons on to roofs. All workers should be properly trained on snow removal and equipment use.
• Remove the snow systematically to maintain the balance of the structure. Use shovels and wheelbarrows. If using a snowblower, ensure that the auger is set to the highest level to prevent damage to the roof. 
• Do not create snow drifts by moving snow from one area on another.
• Verify all drains are clear of ice and snow to allow melting and runoff. If the roof is pitched and without drains, open paths to the eaves to ensure drainage and prevent ponding. 
• Inspect for any other roof damage and make necessary repairs when it is safe to do so. 

It is important to continue monitoring for winter storms and removing the snow off roofs as soon as possible, before the next storm comes in. When you protect your roof, you protect everything beneath it. 

Submitted by: Kate Connell, Loss Control Consultant

UPDATE Reminder: Changes to Federal CDL training coming Feb. 2022

Update to Oct 28, 2021 blog

Some cities may have concerns about the budget for this training. Consider that under the American Rescue Plan final rule, cities may elect a standard allowance of up to $10 million under the revenue loss category. These funds may then be spent on the general provision of government services (things we normally spending money on to provide services).  Cities will want to keep copies of the invoices to enable proper reporting of the use of ARPA funds and have until December 31, 2024 to spend these funds.

On Feb. 7, 2022 the updated Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) commercial drivers license (CDL) training standards will go into effect. These revised standards are required for anyone pursuing a new CDL license or endorsement. Training must come from a certified trainer registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. As a result, most in-house training will no longer qualify.

The revised standards focused on entry-level driver training (ELDT), setting a baseline for anyone new to the commercial driving space. This includes those applying to: 

• Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time.
• Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to Class A.
• Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous material (H) endorsement for first time.

Two exceptions in the FMCSA to be aware of are:

• If an applicant who obtains a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) prior to Feb. 7, 2022, obtains a CDL before the CLP or renewed CLP expires, the applicant is not subject to the ELDT requirements. 
• Any individual who meets one of the exceptions for taking a skills test in 49 CFR Part 383 is also exempt from the ELDT requirements. 

The registry’s purpose is to ensure entry-level drivers are proficient in both driver theory training and behind the wheel training. The registry will always contain the official list of qualified trainers and the records of drivers who have successfully completed their ELDT, and states will have access to that information. After a driver has completed the required training, the training provider must electronically submit the certification into the training provider registry. 

Looking for more information? Explore these additional resources:

Training Provider Registry

CDL regulation PDF 

FMCSA Website for ELDT 

49 CFR Pt. 383 Guidance Q&A

Where can I get certified as a playground safety inspector?

On average, over 200,000 children a year require emergency room care due to a playground-related injury. Of these, public playgrounds account for 74% of injuries.

At the League of Minnesota Cities, we frequently get asked where staff can go to get certified as a playground safety inspector. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) offers the industry-leading certification program in playground safety, the Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification program. The CPSI certification program provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date training on playground safety issues including hazard identification, equipment specifications, surfacing requirements and risk management methods.

In-person options:

The Minnesota Recreation and Park Association (MRPA) offers the NRPA Certified Playground Inspector Course and Exam at 2 Minnesota locations in Spring of 2022.

Online options:

If you don't see a course in your area, the NRPA offers virtual courses.

If you’re looking to hire a local CPSI to inspect your playground equipment, you can find a list in the CPSI registry.

Additional resources:
IPEMA International Playground Equipment ManufacturerAssociation

Submitted by: Julie Jelen, Loss Control Consultant

Reduce your risk of carjacking

Stealing a car by force has captured headlines across the country. While city vehicles are not normal targets for carjacking, there are general precautions which should be followed. Here are some recommendations from the Minneapolis Police Department:

• Do not leave your vehicle running while unattended and never leave a key inside a parked vehicle.
• Enter your vehicle quickly and lock your doors.
• Memorize your license plate to help in fast recovery.
• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid being alone in your vehicle in certain areas, including isolated roads and parking lots.
• Don't sit in your vehicle with the windows down and the doors unlocked.
• Park in well-lit areas and if concerned, find a security guard to accompany you to your parked vehicle.
• When exiting your car, look around you before turning off the ignition.
• Make sure your cellphone is charged and accessible.
• Be aware of tactics carjackers use, including bumping into your vehicle, pretending to be stranded, and flashing their vehicle's lights at you. If you feel a threat, drive to the nearest police or fire station.
• Keep distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of yours if you need to drive around it and make a quick escape, especially at red lights.

If you are a victim of carjacking:

• Honk your horn or use your panic button on your key fob.
• Don’t resist, hand over keys.
• Call 911 immediately.

For more information on general vehicle crime prevention and personal safety, review this story from KSTP.

Submitted by: Julie Jelen, Loss Control Consultant

Central States Water Environment Association (CSWEA) George W. Burke, Jr. Facility Safety Award

Do you know of a municipality or perhaps your own, that has a strong safety program within their wastewater utility? Each year, the Central States Water Environment Association (CSWEA), Minnesota section, offers recognition opportunities for individuals or organizations that are doing great work. This year, they are working hard to find a candidate for the George W. Burke, Jr.Facility Safety Award. 

What is the CSWEA George W. Burke, Jr. Facility Safety Award?

Established in 1983, this award is given in recognition of active and effective safety programs in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities. This award recognizes a wastewater treatment facility based on the documented and illustrated safety program and safety record of the facility for the preceding calendar year.

To submit nomination, go to CSWEA Awards. The nomination is technically due by November 15th, but will be extended as needed.