When you turn on your television, chances are you’ve heard a lot about Winter Storm Gorgon, the arctic mass that’s headed eastward and will spend some time in Louisville. We’ve been warned that the bitter cold is on its way.
While we’re going to be safe from the snowier parts of the storm, the temps will plunge colder than we’ve seen for quite some time. How far? Wednesday’s predicted low will be zero. We probably won’t get back above freezing until at least Sunday.
How does that affect school? Looking back a year ago Jefferson County Public Schools did close for extreme cold on January 6 and 7.
JCPS spokesman Ben Jackey told the Courier-Journal that this week, at least so far, it’s not going to get cold enough to keep kids at home. He said schools plan to be open unless the situation changes radically.
There isn’t a set-in-stone temperature that would cancel classes, but officials go by air temperature and wind chill factors that could cause problems due to continued exposure, such as waiting at the bus stop.
So since JCPS plans to move forward with regular class schedules, how do you protect your youngsters from Gorgon’s bitter extreme?
Layered clothing will be your child’s best friend. When they dress in that fashion, each layer traps heat from your body and will keep them warmer longer. Fleece and wool serve as great top garments to cover the other layers which, if possible, should begin with thermal underwear.
Additionally, make sure their hands are protected with gloves or mittens. Mittens work because the fingers are all together and can bring warmth the the entire hand. In lieu of that, gloves are a must.
At the other extremity, make sure they’re going out with socks as thick as possible and shoes with a thick sole. That will keep the cold of the ground from moving up.
Make sure they’re covering their heads as well. The head is especially vulnerable to extreme temperature changes and needs to retain as much heat as possible. A wind proof hat with ear flaps works best but secondary ear coverings work, too. A balaclava can provide face and head protection. Scarves can also protect face and neck areas.
Finally, make sure they leave the house with as heavy a coat as you can give them. Any tightly woven fabric will help keep the chill out and if it has a hood, so much the better.
Gorgon’s coming so make sure the kids are ready. If you have to work, you should keep these tips in mind as well.
Photo by: mathom/Shutterstock.com
