COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (Jan. 8, 2026) — With a winter storm possible across the Palmer Divide, Rampart Range, Sangre de Cristo Mountains and portions of southern Colorado this week, the American Red Cross of Southern Colorado urges everyone to take steps to keep themselves and their homes safe.
COLD WEATHER HOME SAFETY
Overall, home fires account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year — and home fire responses are 30% higher during cold months than warmer times of year. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are most often responsible for home heating fires.
Follow these tips on how to safely heat your home:
Home fires are not the only danger to prevent during winter storms. Make sure to be safe around your home by following these tips:
WINTER WEATHER DRIVING SAFETY
The Red Cross encourages everyone to avoid traveling, if possible, during any sort of severe winter weather, such as high winds, freezing rain or snow. When in doubt, don’t go out!
If you must travel, make sure to follow these important safety tips:
When driving to your destination, follow these tips:
NEED EMERGENCY INFO? THERE'S AN APP FOR THAT
The free Red Cross Emergency app provides weather alerts, safety steps for different emergencies and expert advice in both English and Spanish. You can also use the free Red Cross First Aid app for guidance on managing injuries, including lifesaving CPR instructions. Download these apps by searching "American Red Cross" in your app store or by visiting redcross.org/apps.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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