Time to review WMU's winter weather closure policy
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Michigan weather can change suddenly, with snow or ice quickly building up and creating hazards for both pedestrians and motorists.
With the winter season just around the corner, this time of year is a good time to review Western Michigan University's closure policy.
University closures
WMU rarely closes or delays classes, so always assume campus is open. In the absence of notification via one of the methods listed below, all normal operations will continue as scheduled.
When the University does close, regardless of the reason, the closure is announced on:
- The WMU home page.
- The WMU Alert system.
- Area radio and television stations.
- The WMU emergency information phone line at (269) 387-1001.
The status of the University's regional locations will vary due to conditions in their individual areas, and they will be announced on the WMU homepage.
In the event of a weather closure, all events on the University events calendar will be marked as canceled. Areas hosting events that will continue despite a weather closure should notify the Office of Marketing and Strategic Communications by sending an email to marcom@wmich.edu.
To review WMU's Closure Policy, visit the policy website.
Dress appropriate to the conditions
When outdoors in sub-freezing weather, always cover your head, ears and hands. Wear a hat or knit cap that fully covers your head, insulated gloves and a scarf.
Layer clothing to prevent chilling and overheating. Three or four relatively light layers are better than one or two thick layers. Outer layers should be loose-fitting, windproof and water-resistant. Remove layers as your body warms to avoid overheating. Perspiration wets skin and clothing, and water conducts heat away from the body about 30 times faster than air at the same temperature.
Proper footwear is extremely important. Frostbite most frequently occurs in the extremities—fingers and toes. Wear socks and "sensible shoes," such as insulated walking shoes or boots, with rubber soles for best footing on icy walks.
For more information on how to stay safe in wintry conditions, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Winter Weather webpage and the National Weather Service's Cold Weather Safety webpage.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.