How to Prepare for Denver Winters

Denver winters are generally mild, with average temps ranging between 45 to 60 degrees on most days. When winter storms move in, however, cold temps ensue and could last from days to weeks with freeze warnings and sub-zero temperatures in effect. Proactive preparation is key to ensure your home, vehicle, and pets are ready for the upcoming winter months. 

Did you know: 

• Winter storms can last for hours and span into days. 
• Heavy winter snow can cut off electricity, leaving homes without heat, power, or communication services. 
• Winter storms can put older adults, children, and sick individuals at risk of getting sick. 

Tips to stay safe during winter weather: 

• Stay off roads if at all possible. If while on the road, you lose control of your vehicle and become trapped in your car, stay inside and wait for help. 
• Carry an emergency winter kit in your vehicle that includes battery booster cables, a tow rope, a flashlight with extra batteries, candles, matches, a collapsible shovel, ice scraper, blanket, gloves, hand wipes, and bottled water.
• Carry a bag of sand in your trunk to help give you traction if you become stuck. 
• Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, wear layers of warm clothing including mittens, scarves, and a beanie or hood. 
• To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, if you are using a generation as a power source, only use outdoors away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven. 
• Clean your chimney at least once a year. It's recommended to do this in the fall or early winter before using for the season to avoid fire risk. 
• Never drive your vehicle with frost on the windshield. Always clear windshield and vehicle roof/ hood before operating your vehicle to ensure you have a clear line-of-sight. 
• If while outdoors, you lose feeling and color around your face, fingers, and toes, seek a warmer environment immediately. These symptoms could indicate you're experiencing frostbite or hypothermia. 

Ready.gov contributed to this article.