Straight Scoop: Temperature too high in Child Development Center

  • Published
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  The Straight Scoop action line is your direct link to Col. Mark C. Nowland, 71st Flying Training Wing commander, for comments or suggestions to improve Vance Air Force Base. Although the Straight Scoop is available, you should always try to resolve problems at the lowest level possible, then follow the chain of command.

The Straight Scoop action line can be accessed by calling 213-7777, or e-mailing 71ftw.pa@vance.af.mil. People requesting a personal response should leave their name and phone number. Comments appear on the Vance Web site and in the Scoop newspaper without names.

Issue: I was wondering if the commander has gone and checked on the status of the Child Development Center now that they can't get air conditioning. My child is in the 1-year-olds room and it was extremely hot in there today and they were all hot and sweaty to the point that their clothing was wet when I picked them up. I just think it is not good for the health of the children and I was wondering if somebody could check into that.

Response: Thank you for your question regarding the Child Development Center temperatures. The safety and development of our Vance children is always our top priority. You stated in your inquiry the CDC "can't get air conditioning." I wanted to clarify the current temperatures within the CDC were assessed by Civil Engineering to be at 76 degrees or less, with environmental management controls set to maintain cooling at a 78 degree maximum. As a result of your comments and further data gathering around the base, we are adjusting our temperature standards down from 78 degrees to 76 degrees. I have specifically authorized this air conditioning effort to address child care concerns. Our climate controls are based upon national health and safety standards endorsed by American Academy of Pediatrics among others. A report from our medical staff will be available next week. Thank you for trusting us with your child and a review of the policy will be made based upon a medical recommendation.