Jammu, Aug 20 (JKNS): The Directorate of School Education Jammu (DSEJ) has released a comprehensive advisory, outlining strict safety protocols for schools to follow during severe weather conditions.
The advisory, according to news agency JKNS, mandates that all Heads of Institutions (HOIs) must ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors during heavy rain, thunderstorms, hailstorms, floods, and strong winds.
School heads are required to conduct regular inspections of premises, including buildings, boundary walls, roofs, and electrical systems, to identify potential hazards. Students are not permitted to gather in open areas, under trees, or near electrical poles during adverse weather. Schools must also maintain updated contact information for parents and guardians for use in an emergency.
Schools situated near rivers, streams, canals, or ponds are advised to be extra cautious during periods of heavy rainfall or flood alerts. It is mandatory to identify and communicate evacuation routes to both staff and students in advance. Outdoor activities in low-lying or flood-prone areas must be avoided. Coordination with local administration and disaster management authorities for timely alerts is also necessary.
Heads of Institutions will be held personally accountable for compliance with these safety measures. Each school is instructed to form a Safety Committee to monitor preparedness, guide students, and report any incident immediately. Any negligence in implementing these guidelines will be treated seriously, with the HOIs being held solely responsible.
Students should be fully informed about the steps to take during such situations, including relocating to safer places. They should also receive training on specific safety drills for lightning, floods, and thunderstorms.
HOIs are directed to take proactive steps based on daily weather forecasts.
The directive from the Director of School Education Jammu instructs all school heads to implement the SOPs diligently to prevent any untoward incidents. (JKNS)
