Heat Alerts

Heat Alerts

Dear Families,

HWDSB has requested that schools share the following information with their communities. As we approach the summer and temperatures continue to increase, there may be some school or classroom closures that may impact your child(ren).

Every measure will be taken to maintain cool, comfortable temperatures in classrooms and schools, however, in the case of a heat event, classrooms/schools may be closed to ensure student and staff safety.

A heat warning is issued when there are two or more consecutive days forecast with daytime highs equal or greater to 31 degrees Celsius during the day and nighttime lows equal or greater to 20 degrees Celsius.

An extended heat warning follows the same regulations, except it is in the case of three or more consecutive days of these temperatures.

Once HWDSB has been notified of a potential heat event, the following precautionary steps will be taken:

-limiting outdoor physical activities

-ensuring access to water

-closing of drapes and blinds (if applicable)

-moving students to cooler areas of the school

-monitoring students for symptoms of heat stress

Starting this year, there will be a board provided and installed device in each learning space or classroom without cooling that principals will use to measure the heat and humidity in the area. While Queen Mary does have a cooling system, there may be occasion to test a learning space should the system malfunction. As a result, we will be provided with one portable device.

Families will be notified with as much time as possible if a school/classroom is closed. In the event of a classroom closing, students may still attend school, and they will receive instruction in a different area of the building. If a school is closed, please do not send your child(ren) to that location. If a closure happens during the school day, a contingency plan will be put into action to ensure families are contacted and students return home safely.

If you have any questions, please contact the school.

Sincerely,

Kelly McCrory

Principal