Uttar Pradesh rolls out heat safety rules to shield schoolchildren

The Uttar Pradesh Government has introduced new guidelines to protect schoolchildren from heat-related illnesses. The Basic Education Department issued the 'Teachers’ Guideline-2026' to help schools prepare for extreme heat in the upcoming academic session. The measures aim to create a safer, climate-resilient environment for students. Under the new guidelines, every school must develop a School Heat Action Plan. A designated Health Nodal Teacher will oversee heat wave-related activities and maintain records of incidents. Schools are also required to monitor alerts from the India Meteorological Department and conduct mock drills.

Teachers will educate students on recognising early symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Lessons will be delivered during morning assemblies, classroom sessions, and daily routines. Students will be encouraged to report if a classmate shows signs of illness.

If a student displays symptoms, they must be moved to a shaded area immediately and given first aid. Outdoor activities will only take place before 10 a.m. and will be cancelled during Orange or Red Heat Wave Alerts. School timings will follow government directives.

Clean drinking water will be available at all times. Students will be reminded to drink water every 20 to 30 minutes. The guidelines also train teachers to provide first aid and share knowledge on heat safety. The new guidelines ensure schools are better prepared for extreme heat. Teachers and students will receive training to prevent and respond to heat-related illnesses. These steps are part of the state’s effort to safeguard children’s health during rising temperatures.