New Delhi: As Delhi schools reopen for the new session, school authorities are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of students, with temperatures expected to rise sharply in the coming days, potentially surpassing 40 degrees Celsius. In response, the Directorate of Education (DoE) has issued a circular urging schools to implement a range of safety protocols to prevent heat-related illnesses and protect the health of students during this sweltering season.
“As the daytime temperature in Delhi crosses more than 40 degrees Celsius during summers, it is detrimental to the health of children and adolescents in schools. Since children are one of the most vulnerable groups, a few steps need to be taken to counter the effect of these heat-related illnesses,” the DoE circular states. The DoE’s guidelines include avoiding afternoon assemblies, ensuring access to clean drinking water, and scheduling regular water breaks.
Schools across the city are adjusting their schedules to reduce exposure to the midday heat. Amity International School has eliminated afternoon assemblies and established water monitoring systems throughout the campus. “We have water coolers with an RO system, and bells remind students to drink water at regular intervals,” said Ameeta Mohan, principal of Amity International School in Pushp Vihar.
Hydration and ventilation are key components in ensuring a safe learning environment. Schools like Bal Bharati Public School are placing drinking water stations throughout the campus and actively training staff to identify signs of heat-related distress. Sonia Chhabra, principal of Bal Bharati Public School, Pitampura, said “Classrooms and activity areas are being kept well-ventilated to provide a comfortable learning environment.”
In addition, students are being educated about heat safety, with emphasis on protective measures like wearing hats or using umbrellas. “We train staff to recognise and respond to heat emergencies, and ensure shaded areas for outdoor activities,” said Jas Elanjikal, principal of St. Michael’s Senior Secondary School, Pusa Road.
School staff is also ensuring the proper functioning of fans and water coolers across floors, with additional measures like keeping classrooms cool and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Sunita, principal of Ravi Shankar SKV, Bawana, said parents should ensure that children eat a healthy breakfast before reaching school especially during summers. “Students have been advised to eat a good breakfast, bring water bottles, and carry scarves or caps. Additionally, water coolers are available on each floor of the school premises so that students remain hydrated.”
On the level of preparedness, an official from the education department, said, schools are actively informing both students and parents about heat safety measures, sending messages through WhatsApp groups and mails, and ensuring that safety protocols are consistently followed. “Schools should ensure that students stay safe and comfortable despite the challenging heat, allowing them to focus on their education without the added stress of heat-related health risks,” said the official.
