Providence reopens schools after closure due to heat

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) After closing 19 schools on Thursday due to inclement heat, the Providence Public School District announced all schools will be open Friday.

Spokesperson Jay Wegimont said that district is taking a number of precautions to keep students and staff safe, including not holding outdoor recess and limiting after school activities.

He added that administration will monitor ambient temperatures throughout the day, maintenance teams will ensure airflow and deploy fans throughout buildings, and water bottles and ice will be available district wide.

“Please emphasize with your children and fellow staff the importance of staying properly hydrated and taking precautions to prevent heat exhaustion,” Wegimont said.

The district is also asking parents to ensure their children are dressed appropriately for the heat, wait for buses in the shade, and have a water bottle.