Diwali Fire Safety: PGAI Surgery Dept Warns Against Hand-Held Fireworks

Chandigarh: The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research has assured the public that its medical infrastructure is fully fortified to treat Diwali-related burn accidents. Professor Atul Parashar, head of the surgery unit, confirmed that the facility operates with continuous medical staffing, pre-allocated patient beds, and complete supplies of burn dressings to handle any emergency influx.

While the hospital stands ready for acute cases, the medical leadership advocates for strict adherence to fire safety protocols. Wearing tightly fitted cotton apparel during celebrations is highly recommended. Conversely, baggy outfits and long traditional veils should be avoided, as their fabric properties make them highly susceptible to catching and spreading flames.

Emergency response training emphasizes the Stop, Drop, and Roll technique for clothing fires. Panic running is discouraged because it drives oxygen toward the fire, causing rapid escalation. Instead, victims should halt movement, lower themselves to the ground, and roll to smother the flames. A heavy cloth or blanket draped over the affected area can effectively cut off oxygen and halt combustion.

First aid for thermal injuries involves immediate irrigation. Washing the burn under a steady flow of clean water until the stinging stops helps contain tissue damage, eases clinical treatment, and reduces potential scarring.

A major public health concern highlighted by the surgical team is the dangerous practice of teenagers and children lighting crackers directly in their palms. This habit frequently causes severe manual trauma requiring extensive reconstructive surgeries. Functional impairment from such incidents can derail educational goals and long-term career development.

Additionally, medical staff caution against investigating unexploded fireworks. People often lean in to check dud devices, risking sudden detonations that can maim the hands, face, or eyes. The safest approach is to abandon the faulty firecracker and maintain a safe distance.

Eye safety protocols are equally strict. Contact with fireworks debris should never be addressed by rubbing the eyes, as this exacerbates damage. Immediate referral to an eye specialist or emergency room is mandatory for visual injuries. PGAI maintains full operational readiness, but reiterates that community vigilance and preventive care are the true guardians of festive well-being.