Celebrate the Festival of Lights Safely and Responsibly
Diwali, popularly known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. Traditionally, the festival symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Lighting earthen lamps (diyas) on the new moon night of the Hindu month of Kartik has been an age-old tradition. According to popular belief, when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and rescuing Sita, the people of Ayodhya welcomed him by lighting lamps throughout the kingdom. The entire city was illuminated, and people celebrated his return with immense joy and enthusiasm. This tradition is believed to have evolved into the festival of Diwali.
However, over the years, the excessive use of firecrackers and fireworks has become a major concern. What should be a festival of light, joy and spirituality is increasingly associated with noise and environmental pollution. The growing use of artificial celebrations and high-intensity firecrackers has adversely affected the environment and poses significant risks to public health.
Firecrackers release particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and various metallic particles into the atmosphere. These pollutants deteriorate air quality and may cause respiratory problems, eye irritation and skin-related complications. Children, elderly people and individuals suffering from respiratory illnesses are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of such pollution.
Loud firecrackers and fireworks also cause distress to animals and birds. Therefore, it is important for the authorities to ensure that the prescribed rules and regulations governing the use of firecrackers are properly enforced. People should avoid high-decibel and highly polluting fireworks and celebrate the festival responsibly, keeping environmental protection in mind.
Another major concern during Diwali is the risk of accidental burns and fire-related injuries. The careless use of firecrackers can cause burns to the hands, legs, face and other parts of the body. In some cases, such accidents may also damage houses and property and can even prove fatal. Therefore, everyone must exercise extreme caution while handling firecrackers to prevent unfortunate incidents during the celebrations.
What Should You Do If Someone Suffers a Burn During Diwali?
If someone gets burned while bursting firecrackers or handling fireworks, providing immediate and appropriate first aid is extremely important.
- First, move the injured person away from the source of fire and ensure that the surroundings are safe.
- Immediately cool the burned area under clean, cool running water for approximately 20 minutes. Do not use ice or extremely cold water.
- Carefully remove rings, watches, bracelets and tight clothing near the burned area before swelling develops. However, never attempt to remove clothing that is stuck to the burned skin.
- Never apply ice, toothpaste, Colgate, oil, ghee, turmeric or other household remedies to a burn. Such substances may worsen the injury and interfere with proper medical treatment.
- After cooling the affected area, cover it loosely with a clean, non-fluffy cloth or a layer of cling film. Do not wrap cling film tightly around the injured body part, and do not use it on the face.
- If the burn is extensive or deep, or involves the face, hands, feet, genitals or major joints, seek immediate medical attention. Difficulty in breathing or suspected smoke inhalation also requires emergency medical care.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions After a Burn Injury?
There is a common misconception that people suffering from burns should avoid sour foods and eggs. Some people believe that consuming sour foods delays wound healing or that eating eggs causes the burned skin to remain white. However, these beliefs are not supported by scientific evidence.
In fact, adequate nutrition plays an important role in the body’s recovery following a burn injury. A balanced diet containing sufficient protein, vitamins and fluids supports tissue repair and healing. Eggs and vitamin C-rich fruits, such as oranges and lemons, can be included in the diet, unless there are specific medical restrictions or allergies. Dietary requirements should be determined according to the patient’s condition and the treating doctor’s advice.
Burn injuries can affect the natural pigmentation of the skin. Changes in skin colour may occur due to damage to melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. Furthermore, improper handling or inadequate protection of the affected area may increase the risk of infection. Therefore, proper wound care and timely medical attention are essential for recovery.
Let us celebrate Diwali this year by avoiding loud and highly polluting firecrackers, protecting the environment and lighting traditional earthen lamps. Let us make safety, compassion and environmental responsibility an integral part of this beautiful festival.
iUKD, India’s fifth super-speciality kidney hospital and one of the leading kidney healthcare institutions in Assam and the North-Eastern region, extends its heartfelt Diwali greetings and best wishes to everyone. May the festival bring happiness, prosperity, good health and peace to all.