DDPHE Reminds Denverites About the Risks Associated with Cold Weather

DDPHE Reminds Denverites About the Risks Associated with Cold Weather

Published on January 08, 2026

Recreation Centers available as warming centers on Jan. 9

Another round of snow has moved into the metro area and is expected to last through the night.

Low temperatures can lead to a higher risk of hypothermia, frostbite, and carbon monoxide poisoning. The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) offers these tips to stay safe:

• Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, wear layers of warm clothing.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
• Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite and seek medical attention immediately.

Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes. Skin can turn white or grayish-yellow and become firm or waxy. To warm the affected area, soak in warm water or use body heat. Don't massage or use a heating pad.

Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature accompanied by shivering, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. A temperature below 95 degrees is an emergency. Warm the center of the body first-chest, neck, head, and groin. Keep dry and wrapped in warm blankets, including the head and neck.

Denver Parks and Recreation will open all currently operating recreation centers as daytime warming centers during regular business hours on Friday, January 9, 2026, for people who need a place to warm up. Each center will have a designated area available for warming, with access to drinking water, restrooms, and a place to sit.

Open Denver Public Library locations are also available to the public as an indoor reprieve from the cold. Double-check library hours in advance: denverlibrary.org/locations.

Residents can also call 720-865-5444 to learn the status of warming centers.

The Department of Housing Stability (HOST) will also be providing extra shelter beginning Thursday, Jan. 8 at 1 p.m., which will remain open as long as cold weather conditions continue.Learn more here: www.denvergov.org/findshelter.

Keep pets safe too!

Denver Animal Protection (DAP) reminds residents not to forget the needs of pets during cold weather. While dogs and cats may have fur coats, that's not enough protection from frigid temperatures. The safest place for pets is indoors. If your pet must be outside for a longer duration, Denver requires they have adequate outdoor shelter, like a doghouse, that allows the animal to escape the elements.

If you see a dog exposed to the dangerous cold without appropriate shelter, call the Denver Animal Protection Dispatch number, 720-913-2080. Failure to protect a pet could lead to a $999 fine, and/or 300 days in jail.

• News
• Press release
• Public Health & Environment