Doctor shares safety tips and emergency steps for firecracker burn injuries

Firecracker injuries during Diwali happen every year, and people in the area must act fast during the first few minutes. Dr Amit Nabar, director of emergency medicine and community medicine at SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai, shared safety steps for burn care.

What To Do

The first priority is to stop the burning and move the person away from the source. If clothing catches fire, the person should stop, drop, and roll, or someone can use a blanket to smother the flames. Next, cool the burn under running tap water for a full 20 minutes to stop heat from damaging tissue. Remove rings, bangles, and watches early before swelling starts, but leave anything stuck to the skin alone. Cover the burn loosely with cling film or a clean, non-fluffy cloth.

What To Avoid

People should avoid putting ice, toothpaste, ghee, oil, and turmeric on a burn because these trap heat and make it hard for doctors to check the wound. For eye injuries, never rub or press the eye, and do not try to pull anything out. Instead, shield the eye with a paper cup and go straight to the hospital.

When To Get Help

Seek emergency care right away if smoke exposure causes hoarseness, soot around the nose or mouth, a steady cough, breathlessness, or confusion. People with asthma or COPD should keep their inhalers close by as air quality drops.

Context

Burn injuries from firecrackers often need careful medical attention because surface wounds can hide deeper blast damage. Proper first aid in the first few minutes can greatly reduce how deep a burn goes and lower the need for skin grafts.