Disruption to school activities – guidance updated

Guidelines regarding disruption to school operations due to weather have been updated and are now implemented in accordance with the warning system of the Icelandic Meteorological Institute. The guidelines, which have been issued on Icelandic, English and Polish , ...include guidance on the response and role of parents/guardians of children in schools and after-school activities when weather warnings are issued. The guidance applies to „younger children“, i.e. children under the age of 12. 

The Capital Region Fire and Rescue Service (SHS) has been tasked by the local authorities in the area to
monitor the weather and weather forecasts and issue warnings if necessary,
as appropriate in consultation with the police and education authorities. 

Responsibility of parents / guardians

It is important that
Parents and guardians, pay close attention.
news about the weather, weather forecasts and other advice from the authorities that could have
Impact on children's school and leisure activities and respond accordingly to the circumstances.
each time. Weather and conditions can be different between neighbourhoods and
changed quickly and unpredictably. It is important that people do not set off to
school or work if it is not confident or is unprepared for the journey, e.g. if
The vehicle is not equipped for winter driving.

These instructions apply to „younger
“children", that is, children under the age of 12. Please note that this is only a guideline.
which is subject to the guardian's assessment.

School and
Leisure activities will not be cancelled unless specifically announced. At the beginning
The start of the school day may be delayed in order to staff the school, and parents/guardians can then expect
because staff seek their assistance. Carers are encouraged to take
such requests. Guardians always assess for themselves whether to comply.
a child needs to be kept in or taken out of school due to the weather, regardless of whether notification has been received
from the authorities. If carers assess that the situation is not safe for children
Those responsible for attending school must inform the school of any relevant matters.
the case of a normal absence. The same applies if children or guardians find themselves in
troubles on their way to school and will disappear from sight.