January 12, 2024
Dear SMU Community,
Frigid temperatures and inclement weather are forecasted Sunday through Tuesday. SMU is observing the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday on Monday and classes resume on Tuesday. Please be prepared for the unusually cold weather and check back here for updates on any operational changes.
PREPARE AND STAY INFORMED
- Ensure we can reach you. Keep your contact information updated. Verify or update your details on your my.SMU account.
- Stay informed with SMU Aware. As an SMU student or employee, you are already signed up to receive SMU Alerts. Check the website and follow SMU Aware on social media for additional information and updates.
- Take home your laptops and charge electronic devices, including external batteries, to stay connected during potential power outages.
- Prevent freezing pipes by maintaining adequate heat in your room, apartment, or house. Set your thermostat around 65 degrees or higher. Let faucets drip during extreme cold and open cabinet doors to warm pipes, especially on external walls.
- Become familiar with SMU Policy 9.12. For academic continuity information, please review the Inclement Weather and Emergency Operations Guidelines. Staff members should refer to the Operational Changes FAQs.
- Monitor local news reports for the latest information about weather and travel conditions.
RESOURCES FOR ON-CAMPUS RESIDENTS
- Use STABLE to submit a maintenance request for temperature issues in your room.
- Report emergency repair issues, such as leaks or flooding, to the SMU Office of Facilities at (214) 768-7000 and inform your RA.
- Check for dining availability on the SMU Hospitality website or SMU Aware during severe weather.
- If SMU loses power, door card readers will switch to battery mode for up to a few hours. Watch for email updates on accessing your room/building.
NAVIGATE SAFELY
- Wear sturdy shoes or boots with heavy treads to prevent falls on slippery surfaces.
- Be cautious when crossing streets and intersections. When roads are slippery, vehicles may not be able to stop.
- Prepare your car with a winter car kit including a scraper, flashlight, water, snacks, and a blanket.
DRESS WARMLY
- Wear layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing, a hat, scarf and gloves.
- Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
- Try to stay dry and out of the wind.
Be proactive and stay safe this winter! For more information, visit SMU Aware and follow updates on our website and social media channels.