Due to an intense heat wave forecasted this week, Boston Public Schools (BPS) has issued a warning to families, while the city declares a heat emergency from Wednesday, July 16 to Friday, July 18. Temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32°C) are expected throughout the area.
In a statement sent Tuesday to the school community, Dr. Samuel DePina, Deputy Superintendent of Operations at BPS, emphasized that the high temperatures require specific measures to protect students and staff.
“The City of Boston is declaring a heat emergency from Wednesday through Friday, as the region is expected to experience temperatures at or above 90 degrees,” he wrote.
The district’s summer programs will continue, but officials indicate that modifications will be made regarding activities and facilities. Regular monitoring will be conducted and educational staff has been mobilized to ensure safe conditions.
“We are working with summer program coordinators to ensure students and staff have access to drinking water, and outdoor activities are rescheduled or relocated to avoid the hottest periods of the day,” Dr. DePina explained.
The City of Boston has established cooling centers in the Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF). These facilities will be accessible from Wednesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM to provide air-conditioned shelter to residents.
The district advises several precautions for families:
Dress children in light and breathable clothing, and provide hats for outdoor activities.
Ensure children wear shoes outside, especially in playgrounds or on synthetic fields, where heat can cause burns.
Provide a reusable water bottle to students so they can use water distribution points.
A complete list of cooling centers and safety recommendations during the heat wave can be found at: boston.gov/heat.
City authorities urge residents to remain vigilant.
“We encourage everyone to watch for signs of heat-related distress,” Dr. DePina emphasized. “If you see someone who appears to be in difficulty, call 911 immediately.”
Residents can also dial 311 to learn about municipal services available during this period of extreme heat.
