Schools to Decide on Delayed Reopening Due to Cold Snap
The Department of Education has announced that the decision to delay the reopening of schools after the Christmas holidays on Monday, **January 2**, will be left to individual school management authorities. These authorities will consider several factors when making their decision, including local weather conditions, ensuring school safety, and consulting with relevant agencies.
In a statement released on **January 2**, a spokesperson for the Department of Education emphasized that safety is paramount. “Any decision to close is taken in the interest of child safety, having assessed the local risks and having consulted, as appropriate, relevant authorities.”
Factors Affecting School Reopening Decisions
Among the factors schools will consider are:
- Maintenance of school premises and utilities
- Salting and gritting of walkways
- Transportation to and from school
- Local weather conditions
The spokesperson further advised that schools can find relevant guidance and advice on the Department of Education website.
Local Decisions, Clear Communication
Paul Crone, Director of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals, confirmed that every school will aim to open during the cold snap if it is safe to do so. He stressed that the decision will be made at a local level by each school’s board of management and that principals will communicate their decision to parents as early as possible.
He added, “They will endeavour to communicate that decision as early as possible to parents, so every principal will be on the Met Éireann site over the weekend hitting the refresh button regularly to see what the status warning will be,” Mr Crone said.
Winter Readiness Plans in Place
Mr. Crone stated that most schools have comprehensive winter readiness plans in place. These plans include pre-opening checks by caretakers to ensure the building is safe, heating systems are functioning, and the environment is suitable for students and staff.
However, the primary consideration remains the safety of students and staff traveling to and from school. Mr. Crone noted, “They would have a procedure in place where somebody living locally, usually the caretaker would go in, in advance just to make sure that the building and the environment of the school is safe … the heating is working, the electricity is working and that it is safe to bring people into the school building.”
He also highlighted the preparedness of schools for remote learning should temporary closures become necessary: “because of the pandemic, most schools are remote learning ready if schools need to close for a few days.”
RSA Offers Road Safety Tips
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has issued guidance for drivers to stay safe during the cold snap. Aoibhinn Twomey, RSA Communications Officer, emphasized the importance of checking tires, spare wheels, and windshield washer systems before venturing out. Drivers should also carry a de-icer, screen scraper, high-vis jacket, warning triangle, charged phone, torch, first aid kit, blanket, and potentially a small shovel.
“If you are in a skid try not to panic, try not to jam on the breaks and a little steering goes a long way, so steer gently into a skid,” advised Ms. Twomey.
Key Road Safety Tips
- Ensure tires are properly inflated and have a tread depth of at least 3 millimeters.
- Use dipped headlights in poor visibility.
- Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
- Avoid harsh braking, steering, and acceleration.
- Use a lower gear when traveling downhill.
- Be aware of black ice; it may not be visible.
Walkers and cyclists should also exercise caution, wearing appropriate footwear, reflective clothing, and lowering tyre pressures for cyclists to increase surface area for better traction.
HSE Urges Caution Against Slips, Trips, and Falls
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued a warning to the public, particularly older individuals, to be extra vigilant during the cold snap to prevent slips, trips, and falls. Advisors suggested wearing non-slip footwear. The HSE stresses that many falls are preventable, urging people to stay warm, eat well, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Local Community Support
Irish Rural Link CEO Séamus Boland emphasized the importance of checking in on neighbors, particularly those living alone, during the cold weather.
“If something suddenly happens and you need to know what to do just have somebody you can call very quickly and that they will know your situation.”
The organization Alone has also encouraged individuals to look out for vulnerable neighbors who might be experiencing difficulties due to the freezing temperatures.
Stay Safe and Prepared
As the cold snap continues, stay informed about weather updates, plan your journeys carefully, and prioritize your safety. Adding extra layers, carrying essentials like a flashlight and extra water bottle, and checking on your neighbors can make a difference during these challenging times.