Heat Advisory Operations

All schools in the San Marcos Unified School District have heat advisory plans in place for continued operations of schools during periods of extremely hot weather or if a heat advisory is triggered by local authorities. 


The safety of our students and staff are the top priority at SMUSD. As a result, during days of excessive heat or if a heat advisory is issued, while we will not close schools, we will modify school operations and student and staff activity. Each school has air conditioned classrooms or common spaces and will adjust the operations and activities at their school site as appropriate. 


While there is no national temperature standard or specific rule for when to keep students inside during hot weather, most healthy children and athletes can safely participate in outdoor sports and activities in a wide range of challenging warm/hot weather conditions, provided precautions are taken to avoid overheating. 

 

Preventative Measures

  • Good hydration is essential; students are encouraged to bring water to school and to keep well hydrated before and during outside activities.
  • Students should dress in lightweight clothing in keeping with the district's dress code.
  • Students should be taught to recognize and self-report signs of heat-related illness.

Signs and Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness

  • Muscle cramps
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Excess sweating or hot, dry skin

Treatment for signs of Heat-Related Illness

  •  Stop exercise
  • Move out of the heat into shade or air conditioned area
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Remove extra clothing or sports equipment 
  • Wet the body down with cool water (not ice)
  • Seek immediate medical advice if symptoms do not rapidly improve

For additional information and your school's Hot Weather Plan, please speak with your school's principal.