According to the Department of Education and Training (DET) Ballimore public is the only school in Western NSW Region that was closed as a precaution of the catastrophic fire danger warning.

“The Department of Education and Training were provided with updated information from the Rural Fire Service (RFS) at 5pm on Thursday night and advice, based on that information, was immediately forwarded to principals of public schools in the areas where there was a catastrophic fire danger warning,” a DET spokesperson said.

“The RFS indicated that there were no plans to direct the closure of schools.

“A decision is usually made by the principal of the school, which in some areas, particularly in rural settings, is made in consultation with the RFS.”

Once the principal of Ballimore school made the decision parents were immediately notified.

“The usual advice for any parent who is unsure of the arrangements for their student’s school is to contact that school directly, and this would have enabled any parent to clarify arrangements this morning,” a DET spokesperson said.

In the event of catastrophic fire danger warnings the DET said principals were advised to establish contact with their local Rural Fire Service to confirm whether there was an immediate risk to their school.

Throughout the week Greater Western Area Health Service (GWAHS) has been urging people to follow some simple precautions to keep cool and stay safe during the hot weather.

In order to avoid heat exhaustion GWAHS Manager of Population Health, Dr Tony Brown said it was important to avoid the sun and the heat.

He outlined the following heat safety tips:

Consume plenty of water, preferably every 15-20 minutes, to stay well hydrated.

Avoid drinking alcoholic, sugary or caffeinated drinks, as they can increase dehydration.

Feed breastfed infants more frequently to help keep up their fluids.

Keep as cool as possible by wearing light, loose, comfortable clothing.

Keep out of the sun in the hottest part of the day between 11am and 3pm preferably in an air-conditioned environment.

Avoid outdoor exercise or strenuous physical activity, especially in the middle of the day. Avoid hot winds.