ADVISORY FOR DIWALI- A SAFE DIWALI IS A HAPPY DIWALI
The festival of Diwali is a very special day for millions of Indians. People start preparing for the celebrations a few weeks in advance, but as the day approaches, we should bear in mind a few important tips to enjoy the festivities without compromising on our health.
●In times of increasing air and noise pollution that we are witnessing today, it is important that we light firecrackers responsibly. Crackers carry a huge risk of burn injuries, so a few precautions are necessary. Wear slippers while lighting them and always light it from a safe distance. Do not bend over or go very near a flickering cracker or it may explode suddenly. Children should be allowed to burn firecrackers only under adult supervision.
●It is recommended that you wear cotton clothes and stay away from synthetic material while bursting crackers. Instruct your children about their correct usage and educate them about the appropriate ways to enjoy the festivities.
●Do not light firecrackers in crowded areas or confined spaces, under trees, inside parking lots and garages or on the roadside, because that might prove to be dangerous for bystanders and the general public. There is also the risk of vehicles catching fire.
●Always purchase firecrackers from registered manufacturers and known shops and ensure that you go through the instructions carefully. Quality firecrackers reduce the risk of a dangerous mishap. Remember to wash your hands and feet afterwards as firework material can be toxic and bad for the health.
●Persons suffering from asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory ailments should start taking precautions several days before the festive season itself. Crackers are made up of highly toxic heavy metals such as copper, cadmium, lead, manganese, zinc, sodium and potassium. These metals, if present in the air, can trigger an asthma attack in a patient causing severe headache and respiratory problems apart from chronic cough. Avoid highly polluted areas, sudden temperature changes, physical stress and any sources of allergy which could also be strong incense sticks or certain types of perfumed candles. Seek medical help immediately if you experience any discomfort or breathing issues.
Do’s:
● If there is any burn, dip the burnt part in cold water or by applying garments soaked in cold water
● Remove jewellery and constrictive clothing before bump or blisters occurs
● Protect the area with a dry, germ-free dressing and not cotton or other fleecy material
● Drop, cover and roll if caught fire or cover the person with a blanket immediately
● In case of facial or chest burn, seek instant medical attention
Don’ts:
● Don’t place a burn under extreme water pressure
● Don’t remove the cloth that is stuck to the burnt area
● Don’t apply butter ointment, oil on the affected area
● Do not put ice as it may reduce wound healing time
● Do not break the blisters
● Avoid long loose clothes, as they are fast in catching fire
● Strictly avoid using matches and lighters for bursting crackers for Diwali as they have open flames that can be dangerous
● Never ignite aerial fireworks like rockets if there is any overhead obstruction present like trees and wires
● Never ever leave a lit match, incense stick or sparkler near unused crackers
● Avoid bursting crackers on the roads as it could cause a major road accident
● Don’t keep your face close to the cracker while trying to light it
● Never give any firework item to small children
● Don’t burn crackers in crowded, congested places, narrow lanes, near sources of fire or inside the house
● Don’t let children burst crackers unaccompanied by an adult. Keep an eye on them constantly
Make this Diwali a safe and happy time for you and your loved ones!
For more information, please contact the following emergency services provided by the Health Department:
1.GMSH SEC 16, CHANDIGARH – 01722782457,2720104,2752042,2752032
2.GMCH SEC 32 CHANDIGARH – 0172665545,49
3.PGIMER CHANDIGARH – 01722746018
