Bhubaneswar, February 22: As the summer season approaches, the Odisha government has issued a comprehensive advisory to schools across the state, urging them to take necessary precautions against the potential heatwave conditions.

The School and Mass Education (S&ME) Department has circulated detailed instructions to all departmental Directors and District Education Officers (DEOs) in Odisha to ensure schools are prepared for the extreme heat.

Under the new guidelines, all government, government-aided, and private schools must adhere to heatwave safety protocols. These include ensuring a continuous supply of safe drinking water for students and staff, repairing tube wells where needed, and stocking sufficient ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) packets.

Additionally, schools have been instructed to limit outdoor activities to prevent students from being exposed to the harsh summer heat. Parents will also be encouraged to send their children with water bottles to school.

To further enhance awareness, schools are required to dedicate time during school hours to educate students on heatwave safety measures. The guidelines have also been shared with the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), district Collectors, and Block Education Officers (BEOs) for prompt action.