Schools can support students and staff during hot weather.
The range of approaches includes:
- rotating class use of air-conditioned facilities where available
- varying normal teaching programs through the use of shady and cool outdoor facilities
- encouraging students to drink water and allowing drink bottles in the classroom
- using fans or other devices in an appropriate way to remain cool
Schools should consider:
- the extent to which outdoor activities and events are scheduled during peak UVR times such as scheduling sport in the mornings and swimming carnivals in the evenings
- the selection of venues and scheduling of time for physical activity, particularly during the summer months, to minimise exposure to UV Radiation
- the use of portable shade structures.
Parents can help by:
- sending their children to school with a water bottle
- packing a hat in your child's school bag
- applying sunscreen before they head off to school.
The NSW Health Beat the Heat website includes information on how to prepare for and stay healthy in the heat, how to recognise and treat heat related illness, and how to care for people who are at risk of heat-related illness.
Related Information
Department of Education Sun Safety for Students Guidelines (DOC 268KB)
Bureau of Meteorology- About UV and sun protection times: http://www.bom.gov.au/uv/