Hello MHS marching band families,
We wanted to share some information about marching band concerning the weather forecast this week. Currently there is a heat advisory beginning at 11:00am tomorrow, and an excessive heat watch beginning on 11:00am Wednesday through Thursday. Air temperatures are forecast to reach the upper 90s with heat indices above 100 degrees.
We have been in communication with our athletic department about school procedures for outdoor sports and activities in extreme heat. We will still have band camp this week as it is our only opportunity to learn the field show; however, there are some precautions we will need to take to keep everyone safe:
What students should do
1. Hydrate - drinking water is not optional. During water breaks, everyone must be hydrating even if it's just a few sips. Continue to drink lots of water when you go home so that you come to camp hydrated.
2. Sunscreen - also not optional. Even mild sun exposure that you wouldn't consider a "burn" will reduce your skin's ability to cool itself. Reapply sunscreen every other water break.
3. Dress - think light colors, loose-fitting and breathable, with long sleeves preferred for additional sun protection. Absolutely no denim or other heavy clothes this week (even if you have a great costume for a dress-up day)!
4. Self-monitor - if you are feeling sick, let a staff member know and step off the field. The new stadium building provides extra shade we can use. Don't take lots of unnecessary breaks, but if you are truly not well please take care of yourself first before it becomes an emergency.
What staff will be doing
1. Extra water/shade breaks - We will be taking scheduled breaks three times as often as usual to allow students to cool off and hydrate.
2. Indoor rehearsal - We will be monitoring the heat index every hour. Although we need to be outside learning drill as much as possible, we will come inside at peak temperatures to work on music and body movements. On Tuesday-Thursday (the warmest days), we have reserved the indoor fieldhouse all afternoon.
3. Monitoring - Staff (as well as student leadership) will be watching students for any signs of distress and encouraging precautionary measures. However, each student knows their own body and should talk to a staff member if they are feeling unwell.
--
Eric RothackerMusic Teacher & Band Director Middleton High School