Uttar Pradesh rolls out heat wave safety guidelines for schools in 2026

The Uttar Pradesh Government has introduced new measures to protect students from heat waves in schools. The Basic Education Department has released the 'Teachers’ Guideline-2026 for Sensitising Students Towards Heat-related Illnesses' for the upcoming academic year. The initiative aims to create a safer and climate-resilient learning environment for children. Under the new guidelines, every school must develop a School Heat Action Plan. This includes appointing a Health Nodal Teacher to oversee heat wave-related activities and maintain records of incidents. Regular reviews of these records will be conducted to ensure compliance and safety.

Teachers will educate students on heat wave precautions through morning assemblies, classroom lessons, and co-curricular activities. Students will learn to identify early symptoms of heat stroke and report any health concerns to a teacher immediately. If a student shows signs of heat exhaustion or stroke, they must be moved to a shaded area and given first aid without delay.

The guidelines also mandate continuous access to clean and safe drinking water in schools. Students will be encouraged to drink water every 20 to 30 minutes. During Orange or Red Heat Wave Alerts, all strenuous physical and outdoor activities will be suspended to minimise risk. The new guidelines equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to respond to heat-related illnesses. Schools will now have structured plans to manage heat wave risks and ensure student well-being. The measures reflect the government’s commitment to a safer and healthier school environment.