Due to soaring temperatures and heatwave conditions prevalent in North India, the Directorate of Education (DoE) in Delhi has issued guidelines to safeguard the well-being of students and staff. These directives are applicable to all government, aided, and unaided schools and are designed to minimize students’ exposure to excessive heat.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted above-normal maximum temperatures across most of India in May, with a significant increase in heatwave days over the northern plains, central region, and adjoining areas of peninsular India. IMD data indicates that the heat waves experienced in April this year were notably more severe than in the previous year, making it the hottest year on record.
In response to these forecasts, the DoE has issued a comprehensive set of guidelines for schools to adhere to during the heatwave conditions. These guidelines include:
* Rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
* Providing adequate drinking water and ensuring its availability throughout the school day.
* Creating shaded areas or providing air-conditioned rooms for students and staff to take breaks from the heat.
* Monitoring students for signs of heat-related illnesses and taking appropriate action if necessary.
* Educating students and staff on the importance of hydration, staying cool, and seeking medical attention if experiencing heat-related symptoms.
Schools are urged to strictly follow these guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of their students and staff during the heatwave conditions.
