Doctors Warn of Eye Injury Risks from Diwali Firecrackers and Share Safety Steps

Diwali celebrations involving diyas and firecrackers bring a sharp rise in eye injuries that threaten both the people lighting them and nearby bystanders. Problems range from simple smoke irritation and allergies to painful burns, infections, corneal scratches, and even permanent vision loss.

Medical Care

Dr Supriya Sringanesh, executive director of Nethradharma Super Speciality Eye Hospital in Bengaluru, reports treating about 25 to 30 firecracker-related eye injury cases every day during the Diwali season. These urgent cases feature burns, deep cuts, and objects stuck inside the eye. Many such emergencies stem from faulty firecrackers or attempts to relight unlit ones. Experts warn that even a seemingly small injury needs immediate medical care because internal damage often remains hidden from view.

Safety Steps

Handling crackers safely requires avoiding risky items like carbide guns and homemade devices, while never approaching a dud firecracker to try lighting it again. Bystanders must also wear proper protection rather than ordinary reading glasses or sunglasses. Doctors suggest using shatter-resistant polycarbonate glasses or safety goggles for anyone near exploding crackers.

Context

Festive seasons across India regularly see spikes in emergency room visits due to burns and eye trauma from fireworks. Public health advisories consistently urge caution during celebrations to prevent lifelong vision impairment. Quick medical attention remains the single best defense against lasting damage when accidents happen.