Diwali is one of the most widely celebrated festivals of our nation. This festival of lights is full of vibrance and brings fun and togetherness. Diwali was an exciting time when we were kids, and it’s the same for our little ones, too! Sweets, new clothes, and delightful crackers make this festival worth waiting for throughout the year – but only if you stay safe!
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On the flip side, Diwali is also the time when many accidents and injuries occur. Though it is a holiday for most people, fire brigades and hospitals are on constant alert on Diwali. A safe and happy Diwali doesn’t seem like a big deal, but every Diwali brings a fresh crop of cases involving burn injuries and freak accidents. Also, the ongoing pandemic calls for new measures to be taken by every family to ensure a safe Diwali. Here are some tips you can use to make Diwali a safe and memorable festival for you and your kids.
Video: Important Tips to Keep Children Safe During Diwali
Safety Tips for Diwali Celebrations
The most common cause of accidents during Diwali is the mishandling of fireworks. Parents need to know the nuances of firework safety for children to have a happy and safe Diwali. For instance, you should know what type of fireworks are suitable for your child’s age. Never allow young children to handle fireworks without close adult supervision. Even the most innocent sparklers and flowerpots can cause serious injuries if basic safety measures are ignored. A fun-filled Diwali celebration boils down to a few simple ‘Dos and Dont’s. Here are some safe Diwali tips for you and your family.
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Dos
Try to celebrate this Diwali at home by staying indoors to avoid exposing you or your family to the coronavirus.
Go for indoor activities, such as decorating the house, indoor games, movie nights, etc. to keep everyone entertained while indoors.
If you and your family can’t do without firecrackers, buy them only from a government licensed shop.
Always keep the fireworks in a closed safety box.
Store crackers away from sources of fire.
Keep crackers away from toddlers and babies.
Follow the instructions and the safety precautions written on the boxes.
Burst crackers only in open spaces, where you can maintain social distancing.
Wear a mask and a face shield to cover your eyes, mouth and nose.
Using a sanitiser might seem safe, but remember that alcohol is flammable, too. Special care must be taken when using it frequently, especially when you and your kids will be touching surfaces, firecrackers, etc.
While lighting ‘rockets’, ensure that they face upward and not an open window, door or road.
Light the crackers from an arm’s length distance and not any closer.
Discard the used crackers in a bucket of water.
Always keep buckets of water and blankets ready in case of an accident.
Keep a first aid kit handy when bursting firecrackers to treat minor injuries at home.
Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby to ensure safety during Diwali.
Make sure that kids are wearing appropriate footwear while lighting fireworks.
Park your vehicles in garages.
Make your kids wear lightweight and fitted cotton clothes while bursting crackers.
Consider eco-friendly alternatives to traditional firecrackers, such as noiseless fireworks or other non-polluting options.
Don’ts
Don’t burn fireworks and crackers in crowded places, narrow lanes, near sources of ignition or inside the house.
Avoid crowded places and large gatherings in order to maintain social distancing, too.
Hold the urge to shake hands and hug people while wishing them for the occasion.
Don’t let your kids burst crackers in your absence.
Don’t keep fireworks in pockets or bags.
Do not examine crackers that were lit but did not burst. Let them go and light a new one.
Don’t light crackers while holding them in your hands. Always keep a safe distance from the crackers while lighting them – exercise daredevilry in more secure and productive activities.
Avoid loose clothes as they can catch fire quickly. Do not wear clothes made of silk and synthetic material.
Do not keep lit diyas or candles near curtains or inflammable materials.
Do not light multiple firecrackers at once as it can lead to an accident.
Do not use matches or lighters to light up the crackers.
Do not experiment with firecrackers or make your own crackers.
Do not burst crackers on roads as it can cause accidents.
Do not give your younger children crackers that can explode, instead let them light sparklers and other gentler and safer fireworks.
Don’t be reckless with your mask and wear it all times.
Don’t stay outdoors for too long.
Do not burst firecrackers late at night, especially after the designated time restrictions in your area.
With a few extra safety tips for Diwali celebrations this year, you and your kids can still have a ball. You will have to look for ways to stay indoors or maintain social distancing this year, but it is possible to have as much fun. You can also consider going for an eco-friendly Diwali with no crackers, to teach your kids that the festive season can be fun and environment-friendly, too!