Diwali is a time of celebration, but every year eye hospitals across India treat injuries from firecrackers. Many are in children, and many are in people who were only watching. Most of these injuries are preventable.
How firecrackers injure the eye
- Burns to the eyelids and the surface of the eye
- Particles and debris scratching the cornea
- Blunt force from exploding crackers causing bleeding inside the eye
- Penetrating injuries, which can threaten sight
Precautions for a safe Diwali
- Celebrate in open spaces, away from buildings and parked vehicles
- Keep a bucket of water and sand nearby
- An adult should light crackers, at arm’s length, using a long incense stick
- Wear protective glasses. Regular spectacles offer some protection but are not enough on their own.
- Never lean over a cracker while lighting it
- Never relight a cracker that did not go off. Pour water on it and leave it.
- Supervise children at all times, including with sparklers
- Avoid synthetic, loose clothing
First aid for an eye injury
- Do not rub or press the eye.
- Do not try to remove anything stuck in the eye.
- Do not apply ointments, home remedies or eye drops.
- Gently cover the eye with a rigid shield, such as the bottom of a paper cup, taped in place.
- For a chemical or powder splash without a cut, rinse with clean running water for at least 15 minutes.
- Go to an eye doctor or emergency department immediately.
Even an injury that seems minor should be checked, because damage inside the eye is not always visible from outside.
Our Hosa Road and Banaswadi clinics are open on Sunday mornings. Find your nearest clinic. For a severe injury, go to the nearest hospital emergency department straight away.
Frequently asked questions
My child got smoke and ash in the eyes. What should I do?
Rinse gently with clean water and avoid rubbing. If redness, pain, watering or blurred vision continues, see an eye doctor.
Are sparklers safe for young children?
Sparklers burn at very high temperatures and cause many injuries. Young children should not hold them, and older children need close supervision.
Sources
This article is for general information and does not replace an examination by an eye doctor. If you have symptoms, please book a consultation.