The Festival of Lights brings immense joy, but celebrating responsibly is key to a safe and healthy Diwali.1 With risks ranging from burn injuries to severely polluted air, a few simple precautions can ensure your celebrations are memorable for the right reasons.
Fire and Burn Safety:
- Wear Safe Clothing: Always opt for well-fitting, thick cotton clothing over synthetic or loose, flowing fabrics, which can easily catch fire.2
- Keep Water/Sand Handy: Designate a bucket of water and sand or a fire extinguisher near any lighting area for immediate use in case of a mishap.3
- Supervise Children: Children should only light sparklers or crackers under strict adult supervision.4 Teach them to maintain a safe distance.
- Handle Crackers Safely: Light fireworks in a wide-open area.5 Never hold a lit cracker in your hand, and never try to re-light a cracker that has failed to go off (a ‘dud’). Douse them with water instead.
- Diyas and Candles: Place all earthen lamps (diyas) and candles on stable, fireproof surfaces, well away from curtains, paper decorations, and high-traffic areas.6 Never leave them unattended.
Air Pollution and Health:
- Choose Green Celebrations: Opt for certified green crackers or, ideally, skip them entirely to reduce harmful smoke and noise pollution.7 Focus on lighting diyas and using eco-friendly decorations.8
- Monitor the AQI: Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before stepping out.9 If the AQI is ‘Poor’ or worse, limit your time outdoors, especially during peak pollution hours (early morning and late evening).10
- Protect Your Lungs: Individuals with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children should wear an N95 or N99 mask when stepping outside.11
- Keep Indoor Air Clean: Keep windows and doors closed during high-pollution hours.12 Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter indoors, and consider adding air-purifying plants like the Snake Plant or Peace Lily.13
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and warm fluids to help flush out toxins and keep your respiratory tract moist.14
By being mindful of these steps, you can ensure a sparkling, safe, and breathable Diwali for yourself, your family, and your community.
