SRINAGAR: The Directorate of School Education Jammu (DSEJ) has issued a comprehensive advisory outlining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for school safety during inclement weather conditions.
The advisory mandates strict adherence from all Heads of Institutions (HOIs) to ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors during heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, floods, and high winds.
Vigilance and Safety of Students, HOIs are required to regularly inspect school premises, including buildings, boundary walls, roofs, and electrical systems, for potential hazards. Immediate action must be taken to address any identified risks. Students are prohibited from assembling in open grounds, under trees, or near electrical poles during adverse weather. Schools must also maintain updated contact details for parents/guardians for emergency communication.
Schools Near Water Bodies: Institutions located near rivers, streams, canals, or ponds must exercise extra caution during heavy rain or flood warnings. Evacuation routes need to be identified and communicated in advance to staff and students. Outdoor activities in low-lying or flood-prone areas are to be avoided during inclement weather. Coordination with local administration and Disaster Management authorities for timely alerts is also advised.
Responsibility and Accountability: Heads of Institutions will be held personally responsible for ensuring compliance with these safety protocols. Each school is mandated to establish a Safety Committee to monitor preparedness, guide students, and promptly report any incidents. Any lapse or negligence in implementing these SOPs will be viewed seriously, with HOIs held solely accountable.
Educating Students: Students should be fully guided and made aware of steps to take during such situations, including moving to safer places. They should also be trained in weather-specific safety drills for lightning, floods, and thunderstorms.
Daily Weather Monitoring: HOIs are directed to take all necessary steps in line with daily weather forecasts.
The directive, issued by, Director School Education Jammu, instructs all HOIs to implement the SOPs “in letter and spirit to avoid any untoward incident”. (KNC)
