Winter Preparedness

Heavy snowfall, freezing or stormy weather can cause problems, bringing with it travel issues, power cuts and flooding. In addition, each year some schools experience temporary closure or disruption where heating systems fail or where snowfall makes travelling too hazardous.

Winter is a time when health problems emerge, amongst children and adults.  For instance, respiratory health problems such as asthma are made worse in the winter. Other infectious diseases become more common as temperatures drop and people spend more time together indoors and less time outside.

Strategies for alerting parents should also be prepared in advance and implemented when severe weather starts or is imminent.

In general, schools and Early Years providers should make every effort to keep open for as many pupils as possible, if safe to do so. If closure is necessary, where the health and safety of staff and pupils cannot be maintained, they should reopen as soon as possible after the weather has improved and once the site has been made safe.

Summary

• Winter weather can cause property damage to schools and Early Years settings, as well as leading to health issues and disruption.
• Schools should ensure critical maintenance checks of the school are completed.
• Access should be ensured by maintaining car parks, pathways, steps and entrances.
• Adequate heating and ventilation should be in place.
• Viruses are spread easily indoors and there are general health issues associated with cold weather and cold housing.
• Carry out an assessment of the risk of flooding, either from the sea or from rivers.
• Ensure your Business Continuity plan has been updated, that you have updated telephones numbers and other senior teachers in the school are aware of the contents of the plan for your school.
• For support or advice on Business Continuity please contact businesscontinuity@norfolk.gov.uk

Further advice and information

• Emergency School closures - Guidance on Emergency School Closures
• UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) with engagement from the Department for Education (DfE) has produced guidance on Looking after children and those in early years settings before and during cold weather: teachers and other educational professionals