Chennai: In view of the steadily rising temperatures and the likelihood of heatwave conditions in Tamil Nadu, the state’s School Education Department has gone on high alert. Prioritizing the health and safety of students, the department has instructed the headmasters of all government, government-aided, and private schools to take necessary precautionary measures. The department aims to ensure that the impact of the scorching heat on the children’s education and health is minimized.
In this regard, S. Kannappan, Director of School Education, has issued a detailed circular to all District Elementary Educational Officers (DEEOs). The circular notes that the Meteorological Department has predicted rising temperatures and potential heatwave conditions in several parts of the state. Consequently, school administrations must exercise special vigilance and effectively implement safety measures for students.
The circular explicitly states that an adequate supply of clean drinking water must be made available to students within the school premises. Headmasters must ensure that all drinking water facilities are fully functional and encourage children to drink water at regular intervals. Prolonged thirst can lead to dehydration, causing dizziness, fatigue, and other health issues.
The department has also directed that students should not be kept in open grounds for extended periods during times of extreme heat. Morning assemblies, sports activities, physical education classes, and other outdoor events should be curtailed or, if necessary, postponed, keeping the weather conditions in mind. If an activity is essential, it is advised to schedule it during cooler hours of the day.
Headmasters have also been instructed to ensure that teachers remain vigilant in identifying the early symptoms of heatstroke among students. If a student exhibits symptoms such as excessive sweating, dizziness, headache, vomiting, high fever, weakness, or fainting, they should be immediately moved to a shaded area, administered first aid, and—if necessary—sent to the nearest health center. Instructions have also been issued to inform parents immediately.
The School Education Department has advised that students should wear light-colored cotton clothing. Furthermore, emphasis has been placed on raising awareness among children about carrying water bottles, drinking water at regular intervals, and avoiding unnecessary exposure to the sun. Teachers have been instructed to inform students in the classroom about simple and effective measures to protect themselves from the heat.
The circular also directs schools to ensure adequate ventilation in classrooms. Wherever possible, fans should be checked regularly, and the concerned department should be contacted immediately if there are any issues with the power supply. Instructions have also been issued to immediately report any disruption in drinking water or electricity arrangements to higher authorities.
The department has specifically asked for extra attention to be paid to young children, students with disabilities, and those with pre-existing health conditions. It has been advised to monitor such students regularly and allow them extra rest if needed.
Weather experts state that temperatures in several districts of the state are recording above-normal levels. Hot winds and intense sunlight can increase the risk of heatstroke and dehydration among children. In such a scenario, it is crucial for schools to take timely precautions. Health experts also advise providing children with adequate water, fresh fruits, and light meals during the summer season, and protecting them from prolonged exposure to the sun.
Parents are also urged to provide their children with essentials like sufficient water, a hat, or an umbrella when sending them to school. If a child is already unwell or experiencing fever, vomiting, or extreme weakness, they should be allowed to rest and sent to school only after consulting a doctor. The School Education Department has instructed District Education Officers to regularly review compliance with these guidelines and ensure that all schools implement the necessary arrangements for student safety. Any negligence in this regard may lead to officials being held accountable.
The department has clarified that this circular has been issued as a precautionary measure to effectively safeguard students’ health in the event of a potential heatwave. It has urged all schools to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the administration and maintain a safe and healthy academic environment for students.
