Prepare for cold weather with these tips 1-13-26
January 13, 2026
Prepare for cold weather with these tips
MOBILE, Ala. — Mobile County residents are encouraged to plan now for cool days and cold nights by remembering the pneumonic COLD: Check the weather, Offer help, Layer up, and Do heat safely. As temperatures swing between mild afternoons and freezing or near-freezing nights, taking simple precautions can prevent illness, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Forecasts for our area show periods of sun and cool, damp air followed by nights that can drop to or below freezing, especially with wind chills. Conditions can change quickly along the Gulf Coast, so residents should monitor local alerts and be ready to adjust evening and overnight plans.
C = Check the weather
Check the latest forecast each morning and before bedtime so you know when a light jacket is enough and when a hard freeze or wind chill advisory is expected. Use trusted local media, weather apps, and emergency alerts, and pay attention to shelter notices for unhoused neighbors when dangerous cold is expected.
O = Offer help
Offer help by checking on older adults, people living alone, those with chronic illnesses, and families who may struggle with heating costs or safe shelter. Consider pets and outdoor animals too, bringing them inside or providing warm, dry shelter when temperatures dip.
L = Layer up
Layer up with warm, dry clothing, including hats and gloves, because heat loss from the head and extremities increases the risk of hypothermia and frostbite in cold, windy conditions. Residents who must be outdoors for work, school, or exercise should limit time in the cold, stay dry, and move indoors to warm up regularly.
D = Do heat safely
Do heat safely by having heaters, fireplaces, and central systems inspected and vented properly, and keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from space heaters. Never use ovens, grills, or generators to heat your home, never run generators inside or near doors or windows, and install working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to prevent tragedy from fires and invisible gas.
“Mobile County may feel comfortable during the day, but those cold, damp nights can turn dangerous if families are not prepared,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for Mobile County. “A few minutes of planning today can prevent fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and serious cold-related illness in the days ahead.
“Together, through awareness and action, we can help build a healthier, stronger Mobile County.”