Firefighters face more challenges in frigid temperatures

PHILADELPHIA (FOX 29) - It's one of the most difficult jobs working in the most difficult of conditions, but for local firefighters the bitter cold temperatures are just part of the job.

FOX 29's Chris O'Connell spoke with Philly's top firefighter to see how crews are braving the elements while saving lives.

When a Port Richmond tire fire started Monday, the smoke could be seen for miles and the ice left behind from all the water will be around for days.

Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel says dealing with weather is just part of the job. Getting to the fire and helping is the number one concern and one of the biggest challenges is getting victims out safely.

"The sidewalk that's iced up and snowy out. That's a very dangerous situation for our members," Commissioner Thiel said.

When a fire broke out at a Germantown apartment complex Monday night, it was about 11 degrees outside. It took no time for power lines, trees and yes firehoses to be encased in ice.

You could see the weather impact at every turn. Ice frozen to firefighter uniforms and crews rushing to rescue victims away on an icy sidewalk.

"Actually, there are strategies that we can't even use when it gets that cold. You know using firefighting foam, the foam tends to gel," Commissioner Thiel explained. "The hoses become iced up and they are heavy as it is. You add the ice--it's a challenge."

This Old City fire started on Sunday morning while it was raining. By Sunday night, It looked like a scene from the Game of Thrones. It's the frigid temperatures that make it difficult to fight the fires--but it's also what usually causes them.

"Heating devices are always the leading type of cause of fires," Commissioner Thiel said.