SD42 warns of classroom heat in the weeks before summer break

Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows School District is advising parents about proactive steps they are taking to monitor classroom temperatures during the final weeks of the school year.

In a letter addressed to families of school children, the district said they have implemented school-based measures to manage classroom temperatures as these temperatures are expected to rise in the coming weeks.

Measures include: using existing airflow systems to expel hot air from buildings overnight and to draw in the cooler air; monitoring indoor temperatures at all sites, both remotely and centrally; and ensuring that daytime staff have guidance on reducing heat buildup including closing blinds and window coverings and minimizing both the use of overhead lights and heat-emitting electronics.

The district acknowledged that some schools and learning spaces are well prepared for the warmer days, however, other schools face greater challenges and will require more specific measures to combat the heat.

In addition, the district is also advising parents and caregivers on what they can do to help. One thing is ensuring their child is dressed appropriately for the sunny weather in lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Another thing is to send their children to school with a water bottle and hydrating options in their lunches and snacks and encourage them to stay hydrated.

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And if a child is particularly sensitive to the heat to provide them with items like ice packs or handheld fans to help them stay cooler throughout the day.

The district is asking parents to reach out to their school principal if they have any concerns.

For more information about sun and heat safety, go to: fraserhealth.ca/health-topics-a-to-z/sun-safety.