With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heat waves in the national capital from this week with temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius, the Delhi Government has issued guidelines to schools for taking measures to protect children during the intense summer.

All the schools in Delhi recognized under the directorate of education have been asked to ensure that there is no student assembly during the afternoon shift.

“As the daytime temperature in Delhi crosses more than 40 degrees Celsius during the summer season this is detrimental to the health of the children and adolescents studying in schools. The rise in temperature in NCR has led to the increased instance of heat-related illness,” the advisory issued on Wednesday states.

“All Govt/Govt aided/Pvt unaided schools recognized under the Directorate of Education will have to ensure availability of drinking water to students in the schools. Students should be given water breaks during classes,” the advisory further states.

Schools have also been told to sensitise students to cover their heads outdoors to avoid direct exposure to the sun.

“Sensitise students to cover their heads (use an umbrella, hat, cap, towel and other traditional head gears during direct exposure to sunlight) when coming or leaving the school),”  the government circular  mentions.

Schools have also been told to report any cases of heat-related illness among students to a nearby hospital or health facility.