How to play with firecrackers?

Although harmful to the environment and health, Diwali is incomplete without firecrackers. If you intend to burst firecrackers this Diwali, please pay attention to these tips.

Dos

• Buy fireworks only from authorised manufacturers. Dry them in the sun for 2 days.
• Store firecrackers in cardboard boxes out of the reach of children and away from inflammable materials, such as a gas cylinder or oil can.
• Never leave children alone while playing with firecrackers.
• Only one person should light a firecracker at a time; others should watch from a safe distance.
• Light crackers in an open area.
• Always use a long candle or phuljhari for lighting crackers.
• Keep two buckets of water handy. In case of burns, pour lots of water on the affected area.
• For major burns, after putting out the fire, wrap the victim in a clean bedsheet and rush to a hospital.
• If the eye is affected, wash with water for 10 minutes and rush the victim to the nearest eye hospital.

Don’ts

• Don't light crackers while holding them in your hand.
• Don't bend over the crackers while lighting them.
• Don't light crackers inside a container, like a bottle, tin can or overturned pot. This can be very dangerous.
• Wait for a while before approaching crackers that do not light immediately.
• Don't store them near burning candles, diyas or agarbathis.
• Don't wear synthetic clothes; wear only thick cotton clothes, when lighting crackers.
• Don't wear loose garments; secure all clothes properly.
• Don't apply cream or ointment or oil on a burnt area.
• Don't light flying fireworks if there is a heavy wind.
  

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