Display of Fireworks in India is not only a part of a big festival like Diwali which is celebrated across the country, but we also find their presence occasionally in religious and public events. Fireworks in India come in different sizes and colors like Firecrackers, Flower pots, Sparklers, Ground spinner, Rockets, and Garlands, etc., All these have one thing in common that is when lit they emit bright colored lights and sounds of varying intensity. During this process, all these fireworks emit fumes, explosive sound, and burning material is spewed out.
Fireworks generate Hazards in the form Air pollution (Inhalation of Toxic hot fumes), Fire and Burns (burning material coming in contact with skin or other combustible material) and Sound pollution (Explosive sound of High decibels). The handling of fireworks directly by children is of more concern and risk as they are more susceptible to injuries. Some of the important things to be ensured while handling fireworks are:
DISTANCE: Maintaining a safe distance is of prime importance while handling fireworks. This reduces the risk of injuries from sudden minor blast injuries and smoke inhalation. Always use a long ignition source stick to safely lit a firework and come back to a safe distance. Children should be guided by adult family members
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING: Tight clothing to be used with arms and legs covered, Children should be encouraged to use shoes and gloves, as accidental handling or stepping on burnt material will cause major burn injuries.
HANDLING: Sparklers even though looks to be safe, generate heat of 1200°F enough to cause third-degree burns, these fireworks are handheld and carry significant risk as the smoke is inhaled in large quantities and burning material can cause burn injuries. Ensure children keep their heads in the opposite direction of fumes and only lengthy lighted sparklers with an extended arm to be used. They should be dipped in water before disposing of.
QUALITY: Only buy Indian made “GREEN CRACKERS” which are designed to produce less noise than conventional fireworks and less emission of pollutants, these are manufactured as per the order of the Supreme Court and under the guidance of CSIR-NEERI.
TIME: Continued Exposure to toxic fumes can cause significant respiratory problems, hence the exposure time to be reduced. Old people, children who are ill and newborns who are more vulnerable to these hazards should be indoors.
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Super sir
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