WMBD/WYZZ-TV—PEORIA---While water may be key to putting out a blaze, firemen say in extreme temperatures, their best weapon can easily turn against them. 

  Creve Coeur Fire Chief Brad Gill says a problem his team faced as they battled this morning’s fire hydrants that had frozen over. 

  Officials say the extra time it takes to access the hydrants can lead to deadly delays. 

     Hose lines and engine pipes can also clog with ice.

      On the other side of the river, Peoria's Fire Chief says while frozen equipment does slow things down, his team faces a bigger obstacle.

Battalion Fire Chief Mike Murrow said, “A lot of slip and fall hazards for the guys once we've been putting a lot of water on the fire, coming out of the house you know it's slick.”

   Because of the water spray, fire fighters often leave fire scenes coated with ice - leaving them more susceptible to weather related health issues.

  Officials say by adding manpower and rotating men on the scene helps keep them from getting frostbite or hypothermia.