Cold Temperatures present challenges to first responders

Jan 5, 2022 | 2:36 PM

PRINCE GEORGE– Prince George and area have been dealing with cold temperatures since the middle of last month.

So cold that WorkSafe BC issued a safety warning this past week urging workers and employers to use caution with wind chill values reaching minus 50 because it can be dangerous — or even fatal — for outdoor workers.

Many workers are feeling the effects but some more than others. Firefighting can be a huge uphill battle regularly but in the winter that battle gets much tougher. Fire Crews fought a structure fire on Ingenika Street on New Year’s Eve and had problems with gear freezing, manpower, and equipment with temperatures reaching -25.

Many might believe that the water freezing might be the biggest issue but PG Fire & Rescue Fire Chief John Iverson says although the hose freezing can be challenging there are other dangers to firefighters in the frigid temperatures.

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The biggest is fatigue. With ice and snow, it can be hard for a firefighter to keep balance in the heavy equipment and the cold temperatures might wear someone out quicker than usual. The other problem people sometimes forget about is frostbite. Even with the equipment, it can still get cold enough where fingers and toes can go numb.

However, Fire Chief John Iverson says his crew is up to the challenge and is appreciative of them every day. He also wants to remind citizens that the best way to help out is being cautious and safe to prevent human-caused fires from happening

by Anthony Corea

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Cold Temperatures present challenges to first responders

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