NEW DELHI: As the sun blazes down harder each day, schools across Delhi have once again been issued fresh guidelines to shield students from the harsh and rising temperatures that grip the city.
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Building upon earlier advisories, the Directorate of Education (DoE) recently issued directives on school preparedness for measures regarding rising temperatures.
To minimise heat exposure, schools have been instructed to avoid student assemblies during the afternoon shift. Additionally, the DoE directed that "no classes shall be conducted in open-air environments," ensuring that students are not exposed to the intense heat during school hours. All outdoor activities have also been prohibited until the weather condition improves.
The importance of hydration has been strongly emphasised. As per the directive, "an adequate supply of clean drinking water must be readily accessible to students at all times. RO systems and water coolers must be maintained in proper working order." Scheduled water breaks have also been made a part of the class routine to encourage students to drink water regularly throughout the day.
Schools have also been directed to ensure that all classrooms are ventilated and equipped with functional fans to maintain a cooler indoor environment. The guidelines further stress that "functional fire extinguishers are installed in all corridors, adhering to fire department specifications," reinforcing the need for strict fire safety compliance.
Regarding sun protection, the circular advises schools to "sensitise students on the importance of covering their heads (using umbrellas, hats, caps, towels, or other traditional headgear) during direct sun exposure, particularly while commuting to and from school during the day." Additionally, it strictly instructs that "no student, parent, or staff member shall stay or sit in open or exposed areas under direct sunlight."
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Health preparedness has been given utmost priority. "Any instance of heat-related illness must be addressed promptly. First Aid kits should include Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) for students exhibiting symptoms. All cases of heat-related illness must be reported to the nearest health facility or hospital," the circular states.
The Directorate has reiterated that "all other existing safety measures and hygienic conditions must be consistently maintained." Deputy directors of education at the district and zone levels have been tasked with ensuring strict compliance across all schools.