L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) wishes everyone a Diwali filled with happiness, prosperity, and above all, safety. As the festival of lights approaches, the excitement of celebrations and firecrackers fills the air. However, LVPEI reminds everyone that true joy comes from celebrating responsibly and ensuring the well-being of all.
Celebrate Responsibly This Diwali
“Diwali holds a special place in our hearts as a time of celebration, exuberance, and togetherness. A few precautions alongside the excitement of lights, firecrackers, and family gatherings will ensure that our celebrations remain joyful and safe for everyone,” says Dr. Navya Cherukuri, In-charge – Emergency Services, LVPEI’s Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad.
Dos and Don’ts in Case of an Eye Injury
As per the press release, eye injuries during Diwali are common but preventable. In case of an accident, quick and correct action can make a major difference.
Dos:
- Rinse the Eye Gently: If debris enters the eye, rinse it carefully with clean water or saline. Avoid using other substances or trying to remove the debris yourself.
- Protect the Eye: Cover the eye with a clean, dry cloth or an eye shield to prevent further injury.
- Keep the Eye Closed: Keep the injured eye closed to avoid additional damage.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Visit an eye care professional or emergency room without delay.
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere strictly to the doctor’s instructions.
Don’ts:
- Don’t Apply Pressure: Applying pressure may worsen the injury.
- Don’t Rub the Eye: Rubbing can increase damage or infection risk.
- Don’t Use Home Remedies: Avoid ointments or creams without medical advice.
- Don’t Remove Foreign Objects: If something is lodged in the eye, do not attempt removal.
- Don’t Delay Treatment: Even minor injuries require professional evaluation.
- Don’t Drive: Arrange for transportation to a hospital instead.
- Don’t Ignore Symptoms: Worsening pain, vision changes, or bleeding need urgent attention.
Firecracker Safety Tips for a Safe Celebration
To ensure a safe and enjoyable Diwali, LVPEI shares essential dos and don’ts for handling firecrackers.
Dos:
- Buy fireworks only from authorized manufacturers and ensure they are sun-dried for at least two days.
- Store firecrackers safely in cardboard boxes, away from children and flammable materials.
- Always supervise children while they handle firecrackers.
- Allow only one person to light a firecracker at a time, while others watch from a safe distance.
- Choose open areas for bursting firecrackers.
- Use long incense sticks or sparklers (phuljharis) for lighting.
- Keep two buckets of water nearby to handle burns or emergencies. For severe burns, wrap the victim in a clean bedsheet and rush to the hospital.
- Always wear protective shatterproof goggles while bursting firecrackers.
Don’ts:
- Never light crackers while holding them in your hand.
- Avoid bending over firecrackers while lighting them.
- Do not light crackers inside containers like bottles or tins.
- Never approach a firecracker that fails to ignite immediately.
- Avoid collecting leftover crackers or making homemade versions.
- Keep firecrackers away from diyas, candles, and agarbattis.
- Wear thick cotton clothing and avoid synthetic fabrics.
- Ensure clothing fits snugly to prevent accidental ignition.
- Do not apply creams or oils to burns.
- Refrain from lighting aerial fireworks during heavy winds.
Emergency Support from LVPEI
In case of an eye emergency during Diwali, reach out immediately:
Hyderabad: 040-68102100, 040-68102848, or 73311 29653