Doctors say NO to afternoon outdoor activities for students

Parents, teachers and sports organizers have been advised to ensure children drink sufficient water, take regular breaks and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight

“Schools must exercise caution when organizing sports and other outdoor activities during periods of high temperatures” 

By Sheain Fernandopulle

In light of the prevailing high temperatures across the country and a recent incident where a 15-year-old student died while training for a school sports event in Buttala, health authorities have urged schools to avoid allowing students to take part in outdoor sports and physical activities during the hottest hours of the afternoon.  

A Grade 12 student of Dutugemunu National School, had been training for a marathon event of the school’s inter-house sports meet.  

Police said he had been running with several other students after starting their training near the Katugahakolaniya tank along the Buttala–Badalkumbura Road towards Buttala when he suddenly collapsed.

He was initially admitted to the Buttala District Hospital and later transferred to the Monaragala District General Hospital for further treatment, where he succumbed to his condition.  

Referring to the incident, Sports Medicine Physician Dr. Ruwan Jayasuriya said students should not be allowed to engage in outdoor activities during the afternoon as soaring temperatures can quickly lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke.  

“Schools must exercise caution when organising sports and other outdoor activities during periods of high temperatures,” he said.  

He noted that relevant guidelines have already been issued by the Health Ministry in coordination with the Education and Sports Ministries on how outdoor sports activities should be conducted safely.  

The warning comes at a time when many schools across the island are holding annual sports meets, often under intense afternoon heat.   

Health officials cautioned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures combined with physical exertion can be particularly dangerous for children.  

Doctors explained that excessive sweating during sports can cause the body to lose essential salts such as sodium and potassium. This imbalance can affect vital organs, including the brain and heart, if not properly managed.  

Parents, teachers and sports organizers have been advised to ensure children drink sufficient water, take regular breaks and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Authorities also urged parents to encourage children to drink plenty of water and natural beverages throughout the day to prevent dehydration.  

Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms that occur during intense physical activity in hot conditions and are usually accompanied by heavy sweating. Doctors advise stopping all activity and drinking small amounts of water regularly as immediate first aid.  

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excessive fluids and salts through sweating. Symptoms may include weakness, dizziness, nausea, headaches, heavy sweating and fainting. Affected individuals should be moved to a cooler place, given water gradually and cooled with wet cloths or a bath.