As Texans across the state prepare for extreme cold this weekend, it’s important to take safe and proper steps to keep your family warm.
A winter storm warning was issued Thursday by the National Weather Service for Dallas-Fort Worth, with freezing precipitation forecast to start late Friday night or Saturday morning, with sleet and snow expected to last through midday Sunday. Other parts of Texas are also planning for similar cold and potentially dangerous conditions.
Marlenne Aleman, a fire prevention officer with Dallas Fire-Rescue, said that as a first-generation student and emergency response worker she believes education is a very important aspect of safety.
“Fire doesn’t discriminate,” Aleman said. “It’s an eye-opener learning about everyday items, like candles and extension cords, that you don’t really think ‘oh, that’s a threat,’ but in reality, they’re a silent threat.”
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A Dallas Fire-Rescue battalion chief’s truck pictured at Fire Station 36, Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, in Dallas.
Elías Valverde II / Staff Photographer
During inclement conditions, a state of panic is normal, Aleman said, though the well-being of yourself and your loved ones should be priority.
Here are a few things to keep in mind for fire prevention and safety during the winter storm.
Things not to use in place of a heater
Aleman encourages people not to use items for warmth that aren’t explicitly designed to be heaters.
“Not only can it lead to unwanted fires, but it could also lead to burns,” she said.
Some examples include:
Hair appliances, such as blow-dryers, curling irons or straightenersKitchen appliances, such as stoves, ovens or microwavesIronsRunning cars in enclosed spaces, such as a garageTips to ensure warmth, safety during inclement weather
DFR Chief Justin Ball said staying warm amid frigid temperatures is most easily done by remaining indoors, which in turn will reduce the chance of accidents that require emergency response teams.
“If you can, stay home,” Ball said. “That’s my advice.”
Here’s a few things to keep in mind.
Dress in layers and drink plenty of waterIf using a generator, do not set it up or use it indoors. Follow the directions provided by the device’s manufacturer. If using a space heater, put it in an open area at least 3 feet away from flammable objects and people. If the power goes out, don’t rely on candles for light, Ball said. If you do, don’t sleep with them lit, and don’t leave them unattended. Using battery-operated or pre-charged electronics as sources of light or heat is preferable.Be mindful if you’re going to use your fireplace. Crack open a window or a door to avoid too much carbon monoxide in the house, Ball said.Aleman said another thing to consider when using a fireplace is making sure it’s maintained and has been cleaned beforehand. Ideally, chimneys and vents should be cleaned at least once a year.Ball advised against starting “warming fires,” typically used outdoors to provide heat or as a place to cook, indoors.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind, both while trying to keep warm during the winter storm and in everyday life.
Use a fire extinguisher on small fires only. Remember to pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, slowly squeeze the lever and move the nozzle side to side. Aleman said it is important to use the entirety of the fire extinguisher and buy a new one afterwards. Keep anything flammable at least 3 feet away from lamps, light fixtures, water heaters, furnaces and other heat-generating equipment. This includes keeping flammable kitchen items away from the stovetop.Do not overload outlets. Unplug small appliances when you are not using them.Always plug major appliances, such as refrigerators, stoves, washers and dryers, directly into wall outlets. Do not use extension cords, as they can overheat and start a fire.Test your fire alarms regularly and install heat alarms in your garage. Pushing the test button will let you know if it works.
Aleman, a Dallas native, works closely with the Dallas County Fire Marshal’s Office doing fire inspections, safety talks and issues citations for businesses and homes that don’t adhere to fire codes.
She said DFR offers free smoke detector installations. Residents can call 214-670-7016 or 311 to set up an installation.
Aleman said if you find yourself in an emergency situation remain calm and call 911.