Winter in University Housing
Staying Safe, Warm, and Prepared This Season
Winter in Fort Collins brings snow, cold temperatures, and beautiful scenery but it also comes with important safety considerations. Whether this is your first winter in Colorado or you’ve experienced a few already, University Housing wants to help you stay warm, safe, and informed throughout the season.
This newsletter includes winter safety tips, driving guidance, places to enjoy the snow, and important housing information to help you prepare.
🧣 Staying Warm & Healthy in Winter
Cold weather can be a big adjustment, especially during extreme temperatures.
- Dress in layers: warm jacket, hat, gloves, scarf, and insulated shoes
- Cover exposed skin to avoid frostbite
- Stay hydrated even in cold weather
- Use moisturizer and lip balm to prevent dry skin
- Limit time outside during extreme cold or wind chill warnings
🏠 Heat in Your Apartment (Important)
During the winter months, heating systems may behave differently, especially during extreme cold.
- Make sure your thermostat is set higher than the room temperature
- If heat does not come on within 10 minutes, contact your front office (or after-hours staff if the office is closed)
- During subzero weather, apartments are expected to maintain at least 65°F, but may not get much warmer even if the thermostat is set higher
- Keep windows closed and locked
- Close curtains on cloudy days and open them on sunny days to retain heat
- Keep furniture and rugs away from heat vents
- When leaving for extended periods, keep the thermostat at 65°F minimum to prevent frozen pipes
⚠️ Space heaters are discouraged. If used, oil-filled units are safest. Never use ovens, stove burners, or radiant heaters as a heat source.
🚗 Winter Driving Safety
Snow and ice can make driving challenging. Please take extra precautions:
- Drive slowly and leave extra space between cars
- Brake gently and avoid sudden movements
- Clear all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, headlights, and roof
- Keep emergency items in your car (blanket, water, phone charger)
If conditions feel unsafe, it’s okay to delay travel if possible.
👟 Walking Safely on Snow & Ice
- Wear shoes with good traction
- Walk slowly and take smaller steps
- Use handrails on stairs
Be especially careful early morning and evening when ice is harder to see
☃️ Where to Enjoy the Snow (Weather Permitting)
Looking to enjoy winter outdoors?
- City Park – Great for snowy walks and photos
- Spring Canyon Park – Peaceful winter trails
- Horsetooth Reservoir – Beautiful views (check weather and trail conditions)
- Rocky Mountain National Park – Stunning winter scenery (plan ahead!)
Always check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.
💙 We’re Here for You
Winter can feel long and sometimes isolating but you’re not alone. University Housing is a community, and we encourage you to reach out, attend events, and check in on your neighbors.
If you have questions, concerns, or ideas for winter activities, please connect with your Community Coordinators. We’re always happy to help!
