Reasons for providing warm water:
a) Effectiveness: Warm water is more effective at removing dirt, grease, and bacteria from the hands compared to cold water. This is especially important for young children who may not have fully developed immune systems and are more vulnerable to infections.
b) Comfort: Having access to warm water makes the handwashing experience more comfortable for children, encouraging them to wash their hands more frequently and thoroughly. A pleasant handwashing experience can also instill positive hygiene habits that can last a lifetime.
c) Hygiene Promotion: By providing warm water, schools can actively promote good hygiene practices among students. Warm water can help remove stubborn substances like paint or food residue, reinforcing the importance of thorough handwashing before meals, after using the restroom, and after playing outside.
d) Overall Health: Proper handwashing with warm water can help reduce the transmission of infectious diseases, such as influenza, common cold, and diarrheal illnesses, which can significantly impact student attendance and overall school productivity.
e) Health Equity: Providing warm water ensures equal access to adequate handwashing facilities for all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background or family circumstances. This is crucial in promoting public health and reducing health disparities in educational settings.
f) Compliance with Guidelines: Many public health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommend using warm water for handwashing to ensure its effectiveness against germs and bacteria. Schools should align their facilities with these guidelines to create a safer and healthier environment for students.