Fighting fires is hard enough on its own, but it can be an extra challenge when you throw Mother Nature into the mix.

Temperatures were in the single digits this past week when firefighters responded to structure fires in Sturgeon Bay, Fish Creek and Egg Harbor.

Gibraltar Fire Chief Andy Bertges said with wind chills making it feel much colder, firefighters have to pay extra attention to their equipment and their own health while on the scene.

Bertges said a strong, coordinated response ensures firefighters can stay safe while also extinguishing the blaze.

While accidents happen, Bertges said cleaning your chimney, checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and limiting other potential hazards in your home will help prevent fires.

Firefighters will get a little relief this coming week, with several days of temperatures above 20 degrees.