BPS Cold Weather Tips

  • Stay safe in the cold weather!

    As winter begins, we would like to provide Boston Public Schools families tips on how to stay warm when waiting at the bus stop or walking to school in frigid temperatures.

    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.