Chandigarh, 07.11.26-Diwali is a festival of lights, joy and festivities but it also becomes a busy time for the emergency department because of the rise in firecracker injury especially eye related injuries.

Firecrackers can cause corneal abrasions, lacerations, intra-ocular foreign body, globe rupture causing moderate to severe vision loss.

It can be prevented by taking some precautions while bursting firecrackers.

Protect Your Eyes This Diwali!

Firecracker Safety – Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

Maintain a safe distance (6–8 feet) while lighting or watching fireworks.

Wear protective goggles to guard against sparks and debris.

Supervise children—never let them burst crackers alone.

Use open spaces away from houses, vehicles, and dry grass.

Keep a bucket of water and first aid kit handy.

Prefer cotton clothes instead of synthetic ones.

Wash hands well after handling crackers.

Keep emergency kit ready, water, sand, first aid kit

Don’ts

Don’t look directly at lit or misfired crackers.

Don’t rub your eyes if something enters—seek medical help immediately.

Don’t apply ointment or rinse if there’s a burn—cover lightly and rush to an eye doctor.

Don’t relight a dud cracker.

Don’t wear contact lenses while bursting crackers.

Don’t throw crackers toward others or light them near the face.


In Case of Eye Injury

Cover the eye with a clean cloth or shield, avoid pressure, and reach an ophthalmologist This Diwali, let the lights shine—not the sparks in your eyes!

— Issued in public interest by your eye care specialist.