Amid Heatwave, SED Issues SOP's For Students, Staff

School Education Department (SED) Thursday issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for government and private schools to be followed during summer hours amidst prevailing heatwave and afternoon stormy winds.

- Observer News Service

The Director of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) in a circular said, "In light of the prevailing heatwave conditions and the increasing frequency of afternoon stormy winds across Kashmir division, it has become imperative to implement effective safety protocols to safeguard the health and well-being of students and staff."

DSEK said that the well-being of students is paramount, and proactive measures are essential to mitigate the risks associated with extreme weather conditions.

SOPS AND GUIDELINES

Guidelines for outdoor activities, particularly games

Morning assembly should be kept brief and conducted in a shaded area or indoors as far as possible. Emphasis should be on essential announcements rather than prolonged drills or speeches.

All outdoor games, sports activities, and physical education classes shall be conducted before 10:30 AM. This includes any form of recess or break period where students might be inclined to play outdoors.

If outdoor activities are absolutely necessary, they must be conducted before 10:30 AM and with the following precautions:

Hydration Breaks: Frequent and mandatory hydration breaks must be provided every 15-20 minutes. Schools must ensure the availability of potable drinking water at multiple accessible points.

Shaded Areas: Activities should be conducted in shaded areas as far as possible.

Supervision: Strict supervision by Physical Education Teachers and other staff is essential to monitor students for signs of heat stress (dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, headache, fatigue). Reduced Intensity: The intensity and duration of physical activity must be significantly reduced. Focus should be on less strenuous