Wausau Fire Department. MWC file photo by Mike Leischner
WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — Central Wisconsin is expected to shatter temperature records this week, and not in a good way.
A polar vortex is expected to move in on Thursday afternoon, driving temperatures well below zero through at least Saturday. Wausau Fire Chief Jeremy Kopp says his teams have been planning for these conditions all week.
“We’re taking care of ourselves and taking care of our equipment, making sure we are ready to respond,” said Kopp. “[That means] going over all our protocols and plans, talk about what we are going to do whether it is a medical emergency or a fire. Having a plan to make sure we stay safe is always important.”
That includes how to operate their equipment in extreme cold, as well as how to prevent hoses from freezing under these conditions. He says they also need to water themselves, because even in the extreme cold, there is a risk of dehydration.
Kopp adds that the best way to help first responders is to keep your sidewalks and driveways clear of ice. He also encourages everyone to heat their homes safely and keep all vents and chimneys clear of snow and ice to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide (CO2) buildup.
“Don’t take unsafe measures to keep your house warm. Don’t use your oven, don’t use space heaters improperly, and maintain your HVAC systems. If they aren’t running right, call a professional and have them come look at it. If you are having doubts, call a professional,” said Kopp.
He also encourages everyone to keep their driveways and sidewalks clear of ice to prevent falls for themselves and their neighbors, while also providing a safe working environment for crews in an emergency.
According to meteorologists at WAOW TV, the coldest recorded high temperature in Wausau for January 23rd (Friday) is -6, a mark set in 1963. As of Wednesday evening, Friday’s high is projected at -12.
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