BACOLOD City — The Department of Education–Negros Island Region (DepEd NIR) has issued a health advisory urging delegates of the ongoing Negros Island Regional Athletic Association Meet (NIRAAM) 2026 to take strict precautions after the heat index reached 40 degrees Celsius (40°C) on March 2.
The 40°C heat index falls under the “extreme caution” category, where prolonged sun exposure and strenuous physical activity significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
The advisory covers all athletes, coaches, delegation officials, technical officials, and event organizers participating in the regional sporting event hosted in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.
DepEd NIR emphasized that while athletic excellence is encouraged, it should never come at the expense of health and safety.
Athletes were instructed to observe proper hydration practices before, during, and after competitions and not to rely solely on thirst as an indicator of dehydration. They were also advised to strictly observe scheduled hydration breaks, immediately proceed to shaded or cooling areas after events, avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight—especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—and promptly report symptoms such as dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, nausea, unusual fatigue, or rapid heartbeat.
Coaches and delegation officials were directed to strictly implement hydration protocols and closely monitor athletes for early warning signs of heat stress. They were likewise advised to prevent overexertion during peak heat hours and ensure athletes rest in shaded or well-ventilated areas between competitions.
Technical officials and event organizers were tasked with scheduling mandatory hydration breaks, providing accessible water stations, ensuring the availability of shaded rest areas, coordinating closely with on-site medical teams, and adjusting competition pacing if necessary due to extreme heat conditions.
DepEd NIR also underscored the urgency of recognizing heat stroke warning signs, which include high body temperature, confusion or altered consciousness, hot and dry skin or excessive sweating, and fainting. Immediate medical response must be activated if any of these symptoms occur.
As thousands of student-athletes compete in this year’s NIRAAM, DepEd NIR reiterated that vigilance, discipline, and collective responsibility are essential to ensure a safe sporting environment.
“Let us compete with excellence — but with discipline and responsibility,” the advisory stated./PN
