
With the cold weather upon us, it is important students are sent to school each day with warm clothes (layers), hat and gloves. Boots and snow pants should also be sent in on days students will be playing in the snow.
Below are some weather guidelines to keep in mind when determining safety for outside play. Winter winds can be dangerous for kids when they're outside. Use this guide to windchill - how cold it actually feels- to keep your child safe.
Windchill: 32F and up
Verdict: It is safe to play outside.
Safety tip: Dress your child in layers, with a hat and mittens or gloves. Babies and young toddlers develop hypothermia faster than older children, so bundle them in one layer more than you would wear.
Windchill: 13 to 31F
Verdict: Be cautious.
Safety tip: It is okay for your kid to be out. But watch for signs that he or she's too cold, such as shivering or fatigue, and take indoor breaks every 20 to 30 minutes to warm up. Your kid's body temperature will drop much faster if he or she gets wet, so swap soggy gloves and hats for dry ones.
Windchill: Below 13F
Verdict: It is unsafe for outdoor play.
Safety tip: Keep him or her inside today. As the windchill factor approaches 0F, there is a serious risk of frostbite. Winter winds can be dangerous for kids when they're outside.
If you have any extra gloves, snow pants or warm jackets around the house, they would be greatly appreciated here and given out to students who do not have their own.
Thank you for all of the donations of clothing and shoes we have already received and for your continued support!
Lana Schaefer
OBS Nurse