Bristol Fire Department Issues Safety Advisory During Severe Winter Conditions

Photo by Courtesy of Bristol Fire Department-RISafety graphic outlining precautions to take during power outages following severe storms.

Photo by Courtesy of Bristol Fire Department-RIStorm readiness notice providing guidance on reporting outages and preparing for winter conditions.
February 23, 2026 — The Bristol Fire Department urged residents to exercise caution and limit travel as hazardous winter weather created difficult road conditions for both emergency responders and plow crews. Officials emphasized that unnecessary travel can hinder response efforts and increase risks during active storm conditions. The department also advised residents to regularly check and clear snow from low-level furnace vents to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup inside homes. In addition, those experiencing power outages were encouraged to promptly report them to Rhode Island Energy using available reporting methods. The advisory reinforces the importance of preparedness and cooperation to ensure community safety during severe weather events.

