In winter, exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are frequent. These exacerbations are associated with increased hospital admissions, morbidity and mortality. Reducing the risk of winter exacerbations of COPD is crucial for alleviating pressures on health services and can be achieved by providing optimal year-round patient management. Identifying, reviewing and assessing patients at risk of COPD exacerbations well ahead of the winter season helps put in place preventive interventions such as checking inhaler technique, educating patients to recognise exacerbations and promoting self-management. This article highlights risk factors for COPD exacerbations, describes how to undertake a comprehensive review of a patient with COPD, and discusses interventions that community and primary care nurses can deliver to reduce the risk of winter exacerbations.