Excessive Heat Warning

Area temperatures throughout Southern Idaho are expected to be 10-15 degrees higher than average conditions. These conditions are especially concerning due to several HVAC projects that have impacted cooling in Pocatello facilities such as the Business Administration Building, Physical Science Complex, Reed Gymnasium, and the Fine Arts Building.

All classes, clinical appointments, and student activities may continue as scheduled. However, faculty have the discretion and flexibility to modify classes to remote delivery if excessive heat impacts in-person learning.

University employees should strive to follow their assigned work schedules. Supervisors are encouraged to allow flexibility and work with employees depending on their specific circumstances if temporary remote work or alternate work areas are needed.

Supervisors must ensure that anyone working outdoors has frequent opportunities for rest and hydration in shaded or air-conditioned locations. Additionally, event organizers should plan accordingly for weather conditions and ensure that any outdoor activities, including camps, are managed to ensure the safety of the participants and the university community.

Air-conditioned resting locations are available for all members of the university community in places such as the Eli M. Oboler Library, Bowen Rendezvous Center, Bengal Alumni Center, Pond Student Union Building, Idaho Falls Center for Higher Education (CHE), and Meridian Health Science Center. Local public health departments may also have resources regarding other community cooling locations.

As we continue to experience these above-average temperatures, please remember the impacts of heat can escalate quickly and be dangerous. Here are a few safety tips to help keep our Bengals safe during times of excessive heat:

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids and encourage others to do the same. 
• Keep cool. Use a fan or seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces out of the direct sun. Wear light and loose-fitting clothing.
• Limit your outdoor activity. If you will be outdoors, schedule tasks earlier or later in the day. Find areas where you can rest in the shade.
• Stay informed. Adhere to advisories issued by the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a great resource for learning how to recognize signs of heat-related illness and additional safety tips. 
• Additional tools and resources are available for use with the CDC Work/Rest Schedule guide and a Heat Safety Tool/App through OSHA and NIOSH to assist supervisors and workers in extreme heat.