Lucknow: Amid evolving climate challenges, the state govt has come up with comprehensive guidelines designed to help teachers protect students from heat-related illnesses.The guidelines, prepared under the directions of additional chief secretary, Basic and Secondary Education, Partha Sarathi Sen Sharma, are aimed at equipping teachers with the necessary knowledge, skills and practical guidance for protection from heatwaves.Schools have also been asked to prepare a Heat Action Plan. Nodal health teachers will be designated in schools to coordinate heatwave-related activities. “Orientation programmes will be conducted for teachers, staff and students. Messages on protection from heatwaves and emergency contact numbers will be displayed at prominent places on school campuses,” said a government spokesperson.The guidelines also include schools having a first aid kit, ORS, a digital thermometer, and necessary medical contact arrangements, including the 108 ambulance service.Accordingly, teachers have been asked to identify children with symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, administer first aid, and provide effective protection. Along with this, children, parents and the school community will also be made aware through dos and don’ts related to heatwaves to ensure they do not negatively affect health, learning ability and overall development.In addition, schools have been asked to create a cooler environment through proper ventilation, shaded areas and heat-reducing infrastructure such as reflective roofs. All outdoor activities have been suspended between 10 am and 4 pm.
