While the beauty of the diya symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, fireworks have long been a cherished part of the celebration. As we embrace the beauty of diyas and fireworks, it's crucial to prioritise the safety.
Diwali festivities often result in a significant number of eye injuries caused by fireworks. The eyes are the second most common area of the body to be affected, following the hands and fingers.
Moreover, noise pollution also exceeds permitted levels, and small particles from firecrackers can cause mechanical damage to tissues. However, the joy of fireworks should be accompanied by a strong commitment to eye safety.
Precautions must be taken to avoid these injuries.
Experts from Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital shared guidelines to safeguard and ensure a Deepavali filled with joy and devoid of injuries.
Do's and Don'ts:
Do not rub or scratch your eyes.
Do not rub the affected eye.
Do not apply pressure to the affected eye.
Avoid using over-the-counter medicines.
Wash your eyes and face thoroughly.
If you feel irritation or have a foreign body in your eye, flush your eyes with water.
If a particle is stuck or large, do not try to remove it. Seek immediate medical attention.
In case of chemical exposure to the eyes, irrigate them with water for 30 minutes and consult an eye doctor.
Do not allow children to play with fireworks, even with supervision.
Precautions:
Choose open spaces for bursting crackers, wear protective goggles, and wash hands thoroughly with clean water.
Close supervision is crucial for children playing with fireworks. Any injury should be addressed promptly by seeking professional help.
Keep a bucket of water and sand readily available for accidental fires.
Safely store fireworks in closed boxes, away from the reach of children.
Keep fireworks away from your face, hair, and clothing.
Maintain a safe distance while lighting and watching firecrackers.
Avoid wearing synthetic clothing while handling fireworks.
Remove contact lenses before bursting crackers; opt for protective eyeglasses.
Properly defuse used fireworks by soaking them in a water bucket before disposal.
Wear sturdy slippers to avoid accidental stamping on burnt crackers.
Risks:
Over 50% of bystanders and individuals handling firecrackers face a heightened risk of sustaining eye injuries.
Street by-passers are particularly susceptible to injuries caused by ignited firecrackers in the streets.
Immediate First Aid and Treatment:
If irritation or foreign bodies are present, continuously flush the eyes with water.
Avoid attempting to remove large or stuck particles; seek immediate medical attention.
Keep eyes closed and consult an eye doctor promptly.
For chemical exposure, irrigate eyes and under the eyelids with water for a minimum of 30 minutes. Seek immediate professional help.
Discourage the use of medicines, including pain relievers.
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