First responders face extreme cold while fighting fires

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Temperatures are expected to plummet to as low as negative 9 degrees this week, but that doesn't stop firefighters from carrying out their duties.

As ABC 17 reported Saturday, the Boone County Fire Protection District successfully tackled a house fire in the freezing cold morning. ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team issued Weather Alert Days Friday through Wednesday for extreme cold and low windchills.

The clash between Earth, wind and fire unfolded on Saturday morning, leaving firefighters' gloves, uniforms and equipment frozen after a day-long effort to extinguish a house fire in South Cowan.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, firefighters remained in good spirits.

"We're doing good! Once our stuff gets frozen over, it's a lot warmer actually than when it's wet because it does provide some windshield" said Boone County Assistant Chief Gale Blomenkamp while fighting the fire.

Before the structural fire, Blomenkamp emphasized the importance of staying indoors as temperatures continue to drop.

"It's a huge risk if people are going to be outside. And so people really need to limit their outside exposure. There is no need to be out there when it's just cold," Blomenkamp said.

Blomenkamp also highlighted the increased risk of frostbite and hypothermia within minutes in such weather conditions.

"It could be 10 minutes, it could be 20 minutes, it could be 5. It really just depends on what kind of clothing you're wearing and how prepared you are for it," Blomenkamp said.

The Boone County Fire Protection District has frequently seen weather-related slides and advising people to slow down and inform at least one person about their whereabouts, as black ice can develop in this cold weather.

"Slow down, give yourself extra time, and make sure somebody knows where you are going and when they expect you to arrive," Blomenkamp said.