Play safe on Diwali, PGI issues advisory

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, November 6

In view of an increase in the number of patients with firecracker-related injuries around Diwali in hospitals, the PGI has issued an advisory for safe use of crackers. Doctors said all accidents/mishaps due to fireworks occurred as a result of negligence and ignorance.

“Bursting of crackers and fireworks adds toxins to the already polluted atmosphere. For most people, festivals nowadays are “louder the noise, greater the thrill”. They often forget that the temporary joy and happiness lead to intense hazardous air as well as noise pollution,” said Dr Ravindra Khaiwal, Associate Professor of Environment Health, School of Public Health, PGI.

According to the PGI, it is high time to think and act on reducing the detrimental effect of fireworks on our environment and health.

Burst crackers carefully

• Know your fireworks. Read the label before you ignite these
• Buy green or perchlorate-free fireworks
• Opt for low-smoke pyrotechnics as these are being tagged as environmentally friendly or “green fireworks”
• Pay close attention to where your fireworks are aimed
• Use firecrackers only for one hour between prescribed timings of 8 pm and 10 pm
• Handle firecrackers carefully. Read and follow the safety precautions issued with the fireworks
• When bursting crackers, prefer open spaces like playgrounds 
• Keep a couple of buckets of water handy for putting out fires
• Use a long candle/’phooljhari’ for igniting firecrackers and keep elbow joint straight to increase the distance between the body and the crackers
• Wear well-fitting cotton clothes
• In case of burns, splash tap water and repeat the process till the burning sensation reduces and seek medical help.
• Wash the eye with plenty of water, then rush the victim to the hospital. Always use spectacles for the safety of eyes.