Chennai, July 16:
In view of the prevailing heat wave conditions across Tamil Nadu, the Directorate of School Education has issued a comprehensive circular directing all Chief Educational Officers to implement immediate precautionary measures to protect students’ health and safety in schools.
The advisory, based on recommendations from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the State Disaster Management Authority, applies to all government and aided institutions across the State. Authorities have been instructed to strictly monitor weather conditions and ensure compliance with safety protocols during periods of extreme heat.
According to the circular, schools have been asked to avoid outdoor activities such as morning assemblies, physical education classes, sports events and other programmes during peak heat hours. Instead, such activities are to be shifted indoors or rescheduled to cooler parts of the day to minimise students’ exposure to high temperatures.
School administrations have also been directed to create awareness among students about symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Teachers are expected to remain vigilant and respond promptly to any signs of distress among students.
Ensuring adequate hydration has been identified as a key priority, with schools instructed to provide uninterrupted access to safe drinking water and encourage students to consume water frequently. Parents, too, are being sensitised through WhatsApp groups and other communication channels to equip children with sufficient drinking water and dress them in light, comfortable clothing.
The Directorate has further emphasised that schools must closely follow official weather advisories issued by the IMD. In case of a formal heatwave declaration, institutions are required to strictly adhere to government directions, including possible closure or rescheduling of classes in consultation with district authorities.
Reiterating that student safety is paramount, the department has tasked district education officials with ensuring strict enforcement of these guidelines, warning that any lapse in implementation could put children at serious health risk during the ongoing summer conditions.