Public Information Statement  Statement as of 10:35 am EST on November 20, 2009

This week is winter weather preparedness week in Ohio... Indiana...
and Kentucky. Today we will look at winter weather safety for
schools.

Most school systems have several sources for weather information...
including NOAA Weather Radio... local radio and television... and
internet or paging services.

Schools have a plan for delaying... early dismissal or canceling
school based on forecast or observed weather and Road conditions.
Weather watches usually prompt the discussion of plans. Actual
conditions or winter weather warnings or advisories will usually
prompt delays... early closures or cancellations. A course of action
for the school is typically determined by extreme cold... snow...
freezing rain... or adverse Road conditions regardless of weather.

Before school starts... local radio and television stations carry
information on school plans as well as other organizations.
Often school officials will test Road conditions themselves before
making decisions.

Once school is in session... announcements will be made to teachers
and students regarding any plans differing from normal. Most school
officials and bus drivers have Mobile communications in case weather
or Road conditions require an alternate Route of travel. Bus drivers
and school officials should be aware of the signs of hypothermia or
frostbite in case children have a long wait at unsheltered bus stops.

Monitoring forecasts and school plans through local media or school
web sites will keep you updated on the most current school plans.

Tomorrow we will review key points for preparedness.