BPS: No School Closing Friday, But Take Precautions Against Cold

BOSTON, MA — Although schools elsewhere in the state are delaying classes or shutting down altogether Friday, Boston Public Schools plans to open at the usual time.

That said, the school is well aware of what it rightly calls "bitterly cold temperatures" coming Friday morning. BPS issued safety tips to parents online and in a letter sent home with students (below).

Additionally, the schools' transportation call center will be open:

BPS Message to parents:

When the “wind chill” temperature drops below -19 degrees Fahrenheit, it is possible to develop frostbite in less than 10 minutes.The National Weather Service offers the following tips on how to dress for cold weather.

• Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Trapped air between the layers will insulate you.
• Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded.
• Wear a hat, because 40% of your body heat can be lost from your head.
• Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
• Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves.
• Try to stay dry and out of the wind.

You can learn more about the effects of wind chill in a National Weather Service online brochure.The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) has posted an alert from Mayor Martin J. Walsh offering safety tips to Boston residents to help prevent hypothermia and frostbite, and to keep warm during this week's arctic blast.The alert suggests to watch for signs of frostbite, which include the loss of feeling and white or pale appearances in extremities — such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately. The BPHC website has additional information about staying safe during the cold weather.

We hope you take the warnings seriously, as the single-digit temperatures and bitter wind chill are no laughing matter. That said, we couldn't help thinking of this Christmas Story gem:

Image via Youtube