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JFRD Takes Action in Response to Extended Cold Weather Event; Urges Residents to Take Precautions

January 27, 2026

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 winter weather information and Warming Center details, visit JaxReady.com.