New safety measures in schools to prevent snakebite incidents; first-aid rooms will be set up, teachers to be given training

ALAPPUZHA: To protect students from snake bites and attacks by other small animals, schools across the state will be equipped with safety facilities, including first-aid rooms. Trained school staff will be made available to provide immediate first aid. The Health Department has also prepared a clear action plan outlining the steps to be followed in cases of snakebite or poisoning.

The measures are based on guidelines issued by the High Court after Kulathoor Jaising approached the court seeking improved safety in schools, following a snakebite incident involving a student in Bathery. As per the guidelines, at least two staff members in each school must be trained in CPR, wound care, and first aid, with support from nearby government hospitals.

Schools are required to coordinate with hospitals that have expertise in venom treatment and paediatric care. Details of snake-catchers, 108 ambulance services, and hospitals where anti-venom is available, including contact numbers, must be available in schools. Before granting fitness certificates, local bodies must ensure that these safety measures are in place. Officials from the Health Department and the General Education Department will monitor implementation, according to an order issued by the Additional Chief Secretary.

Other guidelines:
1. Children’s bags and shoes should not be kept outside classrooms. School buildings and surroundings must be checked to ensure there are no conditions that allow snakes to enter or hide.
2. Safety audits must be conducted for classrooms, toilets, electrical systems, and boundary walls.
3. Open pits, damaged floors, exposed electrical wires, and unsafe doors or windows must be repaired immediately.
4. Bushes and stagnant water in and around school premises must be cleared to prevent the entry of snakes or wild animals.

The objective of these measures is to ensure the safety of both students and school staff. The order will be implemented by public education institutions in coordination with local bodies.

- Snake Venom Prevention Nodal Office, Directorate of Health Services