Slippery Rock University will close on Wednesday and Thursday due to expected extremely cold temperatures and wind chills.
All offices will be closed except for essential services which include residence halls, some dining facilities, health services, switchboard, university help desk, and university police.
All extracurricular activities have been cancelled including, but not limited to, athletic events, plays, performances, guest lectures, and campus venue rentals.
Essential personnel are required to report to work. The University will reopen on Friday, Feb. 1.
According to Kris Benkeser, SRU’s director of student health and wellness, this weather could be dangerous if you are not properly prepared.
“The big thing is to wear as many layers of clothing as possible and minimize the time outside and the amount of skin that is exposed,” Benkeser said. “The only thing we should see from people who are outside are their eyes.”
The consequences of not taking precautions, Benkeser said, will result in frostbite and lead to hypothermia. The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as few as 30 minutes, according to the National Weather Service.
“This is not the time for going outside with shorts, flip-flops or a wet head,” Benkeser said. “The best defense is a good offense. If you wear boots, gloves, a hat and a scarf before leaving to go outside you won’t be susceptible to frostbite. The stress of the cold takes a toll on your immune system, so you can keep yourself healthy by staying warm.”
If, after exposure to the elements you are experiencing symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia, contact the Student Health Center at 724.738.2052. The SHC is available 24/7 during the semester for evaluations by a nurse, including transportation to a local hospital, if needed.
Campus Dining Schedule for Jan. 30 -31, 2019
Boozel and Boozel Express – Normal operating hours.
Watson, Flatz Express – Normal operating hours.
Craft @ Weisenfluh – Normal operating hours 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Rocky’s – Closed Wednesday and Thursday. Normal hours resume Friday.
Quaker Steak & Lube – Closed Wednesday and Thursday. Normal hours resume Friday.
Starbucks – Closed Wednesday and Thursday. Normal hours resume Friday.
T&B Naturally, Bailey Library – Closed Wednesday and Thursday. Normal hours resume Friday.
Campus Drive Grille – Closed – Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
The Restaurants at Weisenfluh – Closed Wednesday and Thursday. Normal hours resume Friday.
