Preparing for Summer Extremes

Preparing for Summer Extremes: Heat, Smoke, and Lightning

~ Brenda Koch and Annette Satterly, Risk Managers

Montana has experienced a range of weather conditions so far this year, from significant snowfall and extended cold to unusually dry and temperate weather. As we transition into summer, forecasts suggest a strong likelihood of above-average temperatures statewide.

Districts should begin planning now to protect staff and students from heat, smoke, and lightning hazards this summer and fall. Proactive preparation and communication of expectations for outdoor maintenance work and student activities (athletics, outdoor educational excursions and classes, etc.), are necessary to reduce health risks, prevent emergencies, and ensure safe operations throughout the seasons.

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Heat Safety: Planning for High Temperatures

Extended periods of high heat can pose serious health risks, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration, and sunburn. Heat-related illness can develop quickly, especially during physical activity.

Prevention Strategies

1. Hydration Protocols

  • Schedule frequent water breaks.
  • Encourage everyone to carry and use water bottles.
  • Provide accessible water stations at all outdoor events/worksites.
  • Promote hydration before outdoor activities begin.

2. Adjusting Schedules

  • Shift outdoor work and activities to early morning hours when possible.
  • Limit strenuous activities during peak heat (typically 3:00-7:00 pm).
  • Modify athletic practices to reduce duration and intensity during extreme heat.

3. Monitoring and Training

  • Train supervisors, coaches, and staff to recognize heat illness symptoms.
  • Establish clear protocols for responding to heat-related emergencies.
  • Monitor local heat advisories and National Weather Service alerts.

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Wildfire Smoke & Air Quality Considerations

Dry conditions increase the risk of wildfire activity, which can significantly impact air quality.

Planning Ahead

1. Monitor Air Quality Index (AQI)

  • Designate a staff member to monitor AQI levels daily, especially during fire season.
  • Use trusted sources such as MT DEQ or AirNow.gov
  • Establish activity modification thresholds based on AQI levels. MT DPHHS provides guidelines for schools here.

2. Activity Modifications

  • Move activities indoors when AQI reaches unhealthy levels.
  • Shorten outdoor duration during moderate smoke conditions.
  • Reschedule athletic events when necessary.

3. Indoor Air Preparedness

  • Ensure HVAC systems are functioning properly.
  • Replace filters regularly; use high-efficiency filters where compatible.
  • Identify “clean air” rooms in buildings if smoke becomes prolonged.

4. Communication

  • Develop a communication plan for notifying families and staff of schedule changes.
  • Coordinate with local health departments for extended smoke-event guidance.

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Lightning & Severe Storm Safety

Montana summers often bring thunderstorms, lightning, and hail, especially during periods of high heat.

Lightning Safety Guidelines

1. Establish a Clear Protocol

  • Follow the “When Thunder Roars,  Go Indoors” rule.
  • Suspend outdoor activities at the  first sound of thunder.
  • Wait at least 30 minutes after the.  last thunder before resuming activities.

2. Identify Safe Shelter Locations

Avoid:

  • Open fields
  • Isolated trees
  • Metal bleachers
  • Dugouts without grounding protection

3. Event Planning

  • Designate a staff member as a weather monitor for any outdoor athletic events or activities.
  • Use weather apps or lightning detection systems.
  • Communicate evacuation procedures to coaches and staff in advance.

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Preparing Now

Districts are encouraged to begin preparation efforts now to ensure readiness before these conditions arrive.

Recommended Actions

  • Review and update heat, smoke, and severe-weather protocols.
  • Train summer and fall staff and coaches on environmental safety procedures.
  • Confirm emergency communication systems are working.
  • Coordinate with local emergency management and public health officials.
  • Inspect and service HVAC systems.

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A Shared Responsibility

Protecting staff and students during extreme summer conditions requires consistent planning, communication, and coordination. While Montana’s summer weather can be unpredictable, a district’s response should not be. Click here to return to newsletter.