Diwali is the festival of lights and colour. It is a time when we forget all differences and gather as family to celebrate with crackers, sweets and new clothes. It is especially attractive for children. Let’s keep this Diwali safe by taking certain simple precautions. We know the general rules regarding playing with firecrackers. But how many of us know that crackers can be injurious to eyes if not handled with care?
Bright lights and “flash blindness.”
Staring at extremely bright light can make us ‘blind’ for a period of time. This is called ‘flash blindness’. Our eyes take a little time to adjust from extreme bright light to normal light. Sparklers and fireworks are generally handled only at night when it is not very bright. This makes it more difficult for the transformation from bright to night vision. Take care to stay at a distance till vision is cleared to avoid injury from burning material.
Keep a respectable distance.
Bursting firecrackers can throw debris, smoke and dust into the air. If you are lighting one, lean as far away as possible while doing so and get away quickly to a safe distance. If you are a spectator enjoying the show, then maintain a safe distance. Particles thrown with great speed can hit the eye and cause injury if you are too close to the bursting firecracker.
Smoke can harm eyes.
Some fireworks emit a lot of smoke. Never light them indoors. If it gets too smoky and your eyes start to sting and water, leave the place immediately and wash your eyes with cool water. Smoke carries fine particles of dust and ash and chemicals that are not completely burnt. These can harm the eyes if not washed out immediately.
Shift to spectacles and goggles.
If you wear contact lenses, remove them and wear your spectacles. When eyes get irritated, contacts can add to the problem. Too much heat is also not good for contacts. If you have very sensitive eyes, wear clear goggles for protection.
What to do in case of eye injury
In spite of all precautions, if an eye is injured, don’t panic. Do NOT rub the eye. Do not try to remove any debris embedded in the eye. Wash your hands thoroughly and then wash your eye with clean cool water. Go to an ophthalmologist immediately no matter how minor you feel the injury is. Immediate care can heal most injuries.
Let’s celebrate Diwali with colour, lights and happiness in a safe manner.