Schoharie CSD is watching the forecast as our region is expected to see a brief polar plunge from Friday into Saturday.
At this time, the frigid weather is not expected to impact our school schedule on Friday, which includes the previously announced two-hour staff development delay. We do want to take this opportunity to provide your family with information to help keep children safe.
The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Watch that will be in effect from late Thursday night through Saturday afternoon. The NWS is forecasting that wind chills will be coldest Friday night into Saturday morning.
Playing Outside in Winter
Heading outside for some wintertime fun like sledding, throwing snowballs or ice skating can be a sure-fire cure for cabin fever. It’s also a great way for kids to get the 60 minutes of daily exercise they need. Just be sure your child is dressed right—and know when it’s time to come in and warm up.
Children exposed to extreme cold for too long and without warm, dry, breathable clothing can get frostbite or even life-threatening hypothermia.
Little bodies, big chill
Children are more at risk from the cold than adults. Because their bodies are smaller, they lose heat more quickly. Especially if they’re having fun, they may be less likely to come inside when they’re getting too cold.
Frostbite
Frostbite happens when the skin, and sometimes the tissue below it, freezes. Fingers, toes, ears, and noses are most likely to get frostbite. Frostbitten skin may start to hurt or feel like it’s burning, then quickly go numb. It may turn white or pale gray and form blisters.
What to do:
- If you suspect frostbite, bring your child indoors to gently warm up. Don’t rub the affected area, and don’t pop any blisters.
- Avoid placing anything hot directly on the skin. Soak frostbitten areas of the body in warm (not hot) water for 20 to 30 minutes. Warm washcloths can be applied to frostbitten noses, ears and lips.
- After a few minutes, dry and cover your child with blankets. Give them something warm to drink.
- If the pain or numbness continues for more than a few minutes, call your pediatrician.
For more, please see the following link:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Winter-Safety.aspx