Children need an opportunity to get exercise and free play time outdoor.  Sometimes, however, weather conditions sometimes warrant that indoor recesses and indoor lunch periods be considered necessary for student and staff safety.

At Palmerston, we follow the TDSB policy (Operational Procedure 519: Severe Weather - School Procedures) to determine what actions to take to ensure student safety. 

Rain, thunderstorms, lightning, hail, extreme winds and extreme cold warrant indoor recesses.

When the temperature and/or windchill factor indicates -28C or lower, children remain indoors due to risk of frostnip and frostbite.

When temperature and/or windchill factor indicates –20 to –28C, recesses are shortened to 10 minutes and lunch recess is shortened to 20 minutes. Children are monitored closely for signs of frostnip, frostbite or difficulty breathing.  Students are encouraged to let an adult know if they are feeling cold.  If the temperature drops even further during these shortened periods (e.g., it becomes windy and the windchill factor happens), we will bring the children in early.

During periods of humidity and heat, we are vigilant about students' level of activity.  Frequent water breaks are taken and students are encouraged to bring a water bottle in order to remain adequately hydrated.  Staff monitor children closely, and children are encouraged to let staff know if they are not feeling well.

Weather conditions change during the day. When necessary and if the weather is questionable, we  consult Environment Canada’s www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca for more information.