Doctors caution against burn injuries due to fire crackers

Hyderabad: Doctors cautioned those bursting crackers for Diwali to protect themselves against eye injuries, could be caused by the crackers bursting suddenly or shrapnel hitting those standing nearby.

Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital data showed that it had received 72 persons with eye injuries last year, 10 per cent of them being serious cases.  A doctor mentioned two specific cases: a woman passenger in an autorickshaw and a soldier who was sitting at home who were struck by misfiring rockets in separate incidents.

A doctor said that 99 per cent of the injuries were caused by negligence.

Doctors also advised measures to be taken for those lighting crackers, babies and pets to ensure their well-being.

Dr Sivarajani Santhosh, a leading consultant peadiatrician, said, “Safety must be the first priority. One should avoid wearing synthetic clothes and prefer cotton. Keep infants, toddlers and pets indoors, close babies’ ears, stay away from electric poles and transformers. For asthma and allergic patients, keep medications handy. In case of burns, wash it with room temperature water, cover the burns with a clean gauze and consult the doctor.”

Tips

Do’s

Purchase fireworks from authorised manufacturers

Supervise children closely while they play with firecrackers.

Choose open areas for lighting firecrackers.

Keep water to wash burns and sand to douse fires.

Wear protective shatterproof goggles when bursting firecrackers.

Don'ts:

Avoid lighting crackers while holding them in your hand.

Refrain from bending over firecrackers while lighting them.

Never light crackers inside a container

Do not collect leftover firecrackers to create homemade versions

Opt for thick well-fitting cotton clothing, avoid synthetic materials

Avoid applying creams, ointments, or oils to a burnt area.

Do not ignite flying fireworks during heavy winds.