Safety Tips to Prevent Eye and Burn Injuries During Diwali

CHANDIGARH – Diwali is a time of lights and celebrations, but the festive fireworks bring a hidden risk of severe eye and burn injuries. Hospitals across the region, including PGI Chandigarh and AIIMS Delhi, have reported that each year they treat between 70 and 100 firecracker‑related cases, many of which involve serious ocular trauma.

To cope with the expected influx, both hospitals have set up dedicated emergency operation rooms, reserved inpatient beds, and an on‑call anesthesia team. PGI will have a core group of 20 doctors on Diwali day, expanding to a total of 55 medical professionals for the three days after the festival. All services, including surgeries and medicines, are offered free of charge.

Key preventive measures shared by the experts: • Light fireworks only in open fields, away from vehicles, dry leaves, and other flammable material. • Maintain a safe distance—at least 10 meters—from the point of ignition. • Keep children under constant supervision; never hand them matches, sparklers, or firecrackers. • Wear cotton clothing and avoid synthetic fabrics that can melt. • Have a bucket of water or sand ready to douse spent crackers instantly. • Dispose of used fireworks in water or sand, never in the open. • Do not hold burning items, such as pomegranates or bottles, in the hand.

In case of a burn, immediately cool the area with a clean, wet cloth and seek medical help. Avoid applying ointments, chemicals, or traditional home remedies, as they may worsen the injury.

Dr. Manish Singhal, head of Plastic, Reconstructive and Burns Surgery at AIIMS, highlighted that most accidents stem from negligence. He recommends using only certified, brand‑name fireworks, lighting one cracker at a time, and never attempting to relight a partially burned device. Prompt professional care is crucial to prevent permanent visual loss or extensive scarring.