Winter Weather Affects Fire Service Operations

 “Extreme weather conditions are becoming more common in more places in the country. These conditions can take a toll on not only the members who operate on the scene, but on the equipment that’s used as well,” writes Michael Daley in a recent issue of Firehouse Magazine. 

While winter weather is hopefully winding down across the United States and Canada, it is not too early to begin preparing for next year’s extreme cold temperatures and stormy winds. 

As we all know, freezing temperatures and high winds can onset very quickly. Response conditions can go from operational to dangerous in moments. How will you know? 

Weather conditions can impact response and on-scene considerations such as driving conditions, access to hydrants, and even fire behavior. 

“It’s advisable to stay tuned to the most up-to-date weather reports for your response area. There are many options for immediate weather conditions …” Daley suggests. 

There is no substitute for real-time meteorological data from an on-site weather station, whether right at the fire station, dispatch center, or even on the response apparatus. 

Columbia Weather Systems makes weather monitoring easy, so you can do your job better. Contact us to let us help you spec the weather station that is best for your operational requirements. 

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Daley, Michael. “Seasons Change: Preparing for Winter Operations on the Fireground.” Firehouse, December 2021, pp. 34-37.