Dehydration 'a real risk' for UAE students

Dubai: Students observing the fasting month should suffer no ill-effects from the hot weather, as long as they remain in cool areas and avoid strenuous physical activity, says a health official.

Ramadan this year falls in September, at a time when the weather is still hot and humid in the UAE.

Dr Mohammad Al Jamal, head of the emergency department at Dubai Hospital, told Gulf News precautions have to be taken as dehydration was a real risk for students during the fasting month.

"My advice to parents is to have children drink plenty of water before imsak (when fasting starts) to prepare them for the day ahead. Physical activity should also be kept to a minimum ... and they have to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun," he said.

He added air-conditioned buses, cars and classes would keep schoolchildren cool and help them do their schoolwork.

However, he said school hours should be shorter as children tire more easily while they're fasting.

"If they're fasting, they won't be able to tolerate being in the sun, especially while waiting for the bus or car to pick them up. Classes should start earlier in the morning. The earlier they start the earlier they finish," he said.