As an extended period of very cold temperatures impacts Northeast Florida through early next week, with nightly freezes forecast and dangerously cold wind chills, the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) has implemented measures to protect apparatus and equipment from freezing temperatures, including:
- Protecting all apparatus containing water to prevent freezing
- Draining water tanks from spare apparatus stored outside
- Repositioning vehicles to prioritize indoor storage for water-containing apparatus
“Cold weather significantly increases the risk of home fires as residents turn to alternative heating sources,” said Fire Chief Percy Golden II. “We’ve prepared our equipment to remain fully operational during these freezing temperatures. Now, we need our community to do their part by following safe heating practices. A moment of carelessness can have devastating consequences.”
Safety Tips for Residents:
Use Caution with Space Heaters:
- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn
- Plug heaters directly into outlets. Never use extension cords or power strips
- Turn off heaters when leaving a room or going to sleep
- Never leave space heaters unattended
Practice Fireplace Safety:
- Have chimneys inspected and cleaned annually
- Don’t overload fireplaces with wood
- Use screens or glass doors to prevent sparks from escaping
- Never leave fires unattended
- Ensure fires are fully extinguished before going to bed
Hypothermia Caution:
Hypothermia is a serious medical emergency. It occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing body temperature to drop to dangerously low levels.
- Dress in layers during cold-weather alerts
- Significant heat is lost through the head, hands, feet, and face. Cover these areas during cold weather alerts
- Watch for warning signs of hypothermia: Early indicators include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, clumsiness, and fatigue
- If hypothermia is suspected, act immediately: move the person to warmth, remove wet clothing, insulate them with blankets, and seek medical attention immediately.
Critical Safety Reminders:
- Never use ovens or appliances not designed as heating devices to warm your home
- Ensure working smoke alarms are installed on every floor and outside each bedroom
- Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home
- Never use outdoor appliances like grills or generators indoors
- Create and practice a fire escape plan with all household members
The City of Jacksonville Warming Center will be open nightly through February 2 for those without access to adequate heat.
For more information on fire safety, visit MyJFRD.com. For winter weather information and Warming Center details, visit JaxReady.com.
About Jacksonville Fire and Rescue: The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) serves more than 1 million residents across 840 square miles of Duval County. With 1,900 personnel operating from 68 stations, JFRD responds to over 100,000 calls for service each year, including fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, and technical rescues. To learn more, visit myjfrd.com.