Dr Channa de Silva of Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children warned that precautions are particularly important during school sports events as high temperatures could pose health risks to students.
He made the remarks at a media briefing held at the Ministry of Health auditorium on Friday (13) to raise awareness on minimizing health risks associated with hot weather.
Dr De Silva said schools should consider reducing sports activities during periods of intense heat and ensure students are given regular breaks.
“Particularly during school sports activities, events held between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., when the heat is most intense, should be minimized as much as possible,” he said.
He stressed that children should be given frequent rest intervals, moved to shaded or cool areas and encouraged to drink water or beverages containing salts.
“Children like to play continuously, but that should not be allowed under these conditions. Regular breaks are essential,” he said.
The doctor warned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures without proper rest and hydration could lead to complications including fatigue, dizziness and muscle cramps.
“If a child shows symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, dizziness or confusion, they should be immediately moved away from the heat to a cool place and given water. If the condition persists, they should be taken to the nearest government hospital as soon as possible,” he added.
He cautioned that severe heat exposure could lead to heatstroke, which can become life-threatening if not treated promptly. (NewsWire)
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