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5 safety reminders for Colorado winters

Colorado winters can be unpredictable, ranging from heavy snow and chilly temperatures to warm sunny days. Check out these tips to stay safe and prepared.  

1. Dress for changing weather in layers 

Temperatures and weather conditions can change rapidly, especially as we start to experience spring snow. On especially cold days, wearing multiple layers, as opposed to a single heavy coat, can help you stay warm. This is because layers can help prevent excess moisture and persperation on your skin, which helps you stay drier and therefore, warmer. If you plan on being physically active or exerting yourself, you can also easily shed layers to prevent yourself from overheating. 

It’s also important to cover areas that are more likely to develop frostbite, including your hands, feet, ears and nose. Try to keep gloves, hats and scarves by your front door or in your coat pockets, so you won’t forget to bring them with you on cold days. We also recommend footwear that is warm, waterproof and tall enough to keep snow from getting inside your shoes.  

If you’re planning to drink this winter, appropriate clothing and precautions are especially important. This is because you might feel warmer when under the influence, and you may not realize how cold you actually are. One reason for this is that alcohol consumption causes the blood vessels in the skin to dilate, moving warm blood from your body’s core to the surface, making our skin feel warm. This effect can give you a false sense of warmth and increase your risk of hypothermia if you spend too much time outside in cold weather. If you plan to walk home from parties or other gatherings, make sure you’re dressed against the cold. 

2. Wear sun protection

Colorado’s high elevation makes it the perfect place to catch a sunburn, even in the winter. This is because there is less atmosphere to protect against UV radiation and the sun’s rays can easily reflect off of snowy and icy surfaces. Follow these tips to best protect yourself from sun damage: 

  • Wear SPF 30+
    Lather any exposed areas on your body with sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher. It’s best to apply your first coat of sunscreen about 30 minutes before you head outside. You’ll also need to reapply every one to two hours while out in the sun. For the best coverage, opt for lotions over sprays. Packing a small container of sunscreen with you can be helpful, especially if you are spending long days outside skiing or hiking.
     
  • Wear eye protection
    The sun can affect more than just your skin. That’s why it’s important to wear sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from sun damage. UV-blocking sunglasses and goggles can reduce the impact of UV rays and help reduce glare during the daytime.  

3. Know before you go

Check the forecast before heading outside, and remember that Colorado weather can change in an instant. Take extra precautions if the National Weather Service issues any of the following winter weather alerts: 

  • Blizzard warning: Issued for winter storms with gusts greater than or equal to 35 mph accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow. Snow conditions may cause whiteouts or low visibility. Avoid travel unless necessary. 
     
  • Winter storm warning: Issued for significant winter weather events, including snow, sleet, ice or blowing snow conditions. Delay traffic plans until conditions improve. 
     
  • Wind chill warning: Issued for a combination of cold air and strong winds that may create dangerously low wind chill values that can result in frostbite or hypothermia. Avoid going outdoors unless necessary and wear warm clothing in addition to a windbreaker. 

It’s also important to check terrain conditions if you are planning to hike, ski or recreate in the backcountry. This includes Rocky Mountain National Park and other areas around Colorado. In the winter, avalanches can cause masses of snow, rock and ice to slide down the mountainside, potentially reaching speeds of up to 200 miles per hour (aka much faster than you can ski or hike out of the way). It’s also important to follow signs and trail closures since there may be an increased avalanche risk in the area. Backcountry skiers and snowboarders are highly encouraged to take avalanche safety courses, ski with experienced partners and bring appropriate equipment, including a transciever, probe and shovel. 

View a map of current avalanche conditions in Colorado

4. Plan your transportation

Winter weather can impact transportation options. Here are some tips to help you prepare for less-than-ideal road conditions, storms and more. 

If you’re driving

Winter can impact traffic patterns, road conditions and the way your car operates. Follow these tips to get your car winter weather ready. 

  • Clear off your car, including your mirrors, windshield, back window, headlights and taillights. 
  • Check your windshield washer fluid and refill with new fluid if necessary (we recommend looking for a washer fluid that can withstand at least -20 degrees Fahrenheit). If your windshield becomes frosted, windshield washer fluid and your windshield wipers can help get rid of excess ice. 
  • Keep jumper cables and rope or straps in your car at all times in case you lose battery power or get stuck on the road. It is also helpful to have a blanket, hat and gloves in your car to help keep you warm while you wait for help. 
  • Avoid abandoning your car on the side of the road if you get stuck (this can result in a ticket or fine). Instead, call a tow service for help. This may be covered by your insurance policy or other benefits like AAA. 
  • Watch for black ice, slush, snow and other hazardous conditions, slow down, especially around corners and pass with care. Changing speed and direction are common reasons for losing control. 
  • Keep in mind that snow tires, four wheel drive (4WD) and all wheel drive (AWD) do not change your ability to break or come to a complete stop. 
  • If you’re traveling on major highways or interstates, check COTrip to get updates on road closures and other changes. 

If you’re riding the bus

Snowstorms and weather advisories may impact public transportation. This can include closures and delayed schedules. Follow these tips to navigate public transit during winter months. 

If you’re on foot

Whether you’re biking, skating or walking to or from campus, practice these safety tips. 

  • Wear comfortable, weather-proof shoes (they may come in helpful if sidewalks haven’t been cleared). 
  • Look both ways when crossing streets or sidewalks. Ice can make it easier for cars, bikes and other vehicles to run through lights or stop signs without warning. 
  • Avoid using electric scooters during inclement weather, as they have limited traction on snowy and icy surfaces. 
  • Always wear a helmet when biking, riding a skateboard or using a scooter, especially in the winter when road and sidewalk conditions are slippery. 

No matter how you plan to get around, be sure to have a backup plan in place. For instance, you may want to call a friend or family member to give you a lift if you’re concerned about getting to and from campus safely

5. Stay hydrated

High elevation, cold weather and dry conditions can leave you feeling more dehydrated than usual, especially if you’re engaged in strenuous activities like skiing, hiking, shoveling or snowshoeing. Be sure to drink at least one liter (32 oz.) of water every two hours while doing physical activity outside. It’s also important to bring extra water if you plan to be outdoors with pets or other people. Avoiding caffeine (a diuretic) can also help you stay hydrated for longer. 

Resources

Check out these resources to help you prepare and stay safe outside.

Resources for students

Outdoor Equipment Rentals

Outdoor Pursuits offers outdoor gear rentals to students, staff and faculty. Rental equipment includes hiking, camping, climbing, tubing, water sports and winter equipment options.

Apothecary Pharmacy

The Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg Health Center carries a variety of over-the-counter products, including sunscreen, allergy medication, lip balm, aloe vera, hand warmers and more. 

Free wellness supplies

You can pick up free sunscreen, first aid and other wellness supplies at the Figueroa Family Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center or at the Village Center.

NightRide

Your safe and free alternative to walking alone after dark. NightRide is a student-operated service that allows you to request free, evening transportation to and from any location within Boulder city limits. 

Ski Bus

The E-Center’s Ski Bus Program provides ticketed rides to and from ski resorts for CU Boulder students, including Arapahoe Basin, Winter Park, Copper and Eldora. Every bus stops at Williams Village, Kittredge and Farrand Field on campus. Tickets are available for $20 ($10 for HERD members). 

Campus Alerts

CU Boulder has an alert system that can send notifications to your phone and campus email related to winter weather conditions, delays and campus closures. 

Resources for staff and faculty

Outdoor Equipment Rentals

Outdoor Pursuits offers outdoor gear rentals to students, staff and faculty. Rental equipment includes hiking, camping, climbing, tubing, water sports and winter equipment options.

Apothecary Pharmacy

The Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg Health Center carries a variety of over-the-counter products, including sunscreen, allergy medication, lip balm, aloe vera, hand warmers and more. 

NightRide

Your safe and free alternative to walking alone after dark. NightRide is a student-operated service that allows you to request free, evening transportation to and from any location within Boulder city limits. 

Free wellness supplies

You can pick up free sunscreen, first aid and other wellness supplies at the Figueroa Family Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center.

Campus alerts

CU Boulder has an alert system that can send notifications to your phone and campus email related to winter weather conditions, delays and campus closures. 

Snowstang RTD Program

The Colorado Department of Transportation provides shuttle services to and from Loveland, Arapahoe Basin, Copper, Breckenridge and Steamboat Springs throughout the ski season. Tickets are available for $25 to $40 roundtrip.