Protecting students from extreme heat

The Sultanate of Oman is currently experiencing hot summer characterised by intense heat accompanied by dry and humid air, which can often reach record temperatures, especially in some areas far from the coast. This season brings with it harmful health problems known as summer ailments, which must be taken into account by students who are facing the brunt of the hot summer weather.

Protecting students from high temperatures and excessive sun exposure requires attention from families and schools. This is a key priority for ensuring their safety during the school hours, especially with high temperatures and high humidity. Children can be exposed to serious health risks such as heatstroke, dehydration and sunburn if schools do not take the necessary preventive measures.

Some teachers and parents are also complaining about children suffering from nosebleeds due to high temperatures and dry air.

Specialists recommend adopting a healthy and proper approach in dealing with high temperatures; and avoiding summer ailments and nutritional and physical problems caused by extreme heat if guidelines are not followed. Researchers also note that when the body is exposed to heat stress, the brain becomes distracted by signals from the body. When you’re in a hot or cold environment, maintaining internal balance becomes a priority for your mind and body.

Furthermore, exposure to moderate heat can affect a child’s cognitive performance. Studies have shown that high temperatures can impair their attention, memory and overall cognitive function. This can have immediate effects on a child’s ability to learn and perform in the school, as well as long-term effects on their development.

Heat stress also negatively impacts students’ performance in exams. Researchers have indicated in their studies that there is a strong relationship between high temperatures and poor student performance in schools and exams, with lower average performance and productivity, decreased comprehension and achievement; and difficulty in concentrating. Information absorption is slower in high temperatures and thoughts become confused and foggy.

To mitigate the above risks, it is essential to implement preventive measures. Parents and caregivers can take the following measures:

- Parents and teachers should encourage children to have regular water intake, especially during outdoor activities.

- Access to shaded areas and cool environments can help reduce the risk of heat exposure.

- Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and applying sunscreen can protect children from the harmful effects of the sun.

- Schools should adjust schedules to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours and ensure that classrooms are well-ventilated or air-conditioned.

- Educating children about the importance of drinking water and recognising the signs of heat-related illness can empower them to take proactive steps to protect their health.Adequate drinking water should be provided and access to water should be facilitated by placing water coolers in easily accessible areas within the school, including near playgrounds and sports fields. Students should be encouraged and guided to drink water regularly throughout the day, especially before and after physical activities. Teachers can remind students to drink water to maintain hydration.

Students may not realise how dangerous it is to be exposed to sun and play in heat, especially with the rising temperatures during summer. Therefore, it is necessary to protect them from high temperatures and sunstroke while they are at school and teach them methods of prevention.