Let it light up lives
The Hindu : The festive season is here again and brings with it a whole gamut of light, sound and colour and memorable experiences for you and your loved ones.
While we are busy decorating our homes and shopping for new apparel, footwear, jewellery and accessories, for ourselves, for our homes and for loved ones, let’s spend a few moments and make a conscious effort to gift ourselves and everyone we interact with a safe Deepavali.
Let’s take a look at some of the dos and don’ts that will render the occasion safe.
The don’ts
Don’t attempt to relight a dud. It could still go off and have even less of a wick. Let it sit for several minutes and then douse it with water. Don’t use fireworks or sparklers indoors. Don’t carry firecrackers in your pocket. They’re explosives and can go off prematurely even if they’re not lit. Don’t light fireworks in metal or glass containers. Do read and follow the label directions. It’s a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how often people ignore the directions. Do light firecrackers away from combustible materials such as buildings, trees, dry grass and other obstacles. Do bury your fireworks at least halfway down into a bucket of sand angled at a trajectory away from spectators and combustibles. Do have water handy (garden hose and bucket) to soak fireworks after firing. Do light a firecracker at arm’s length, standing back and keeping your face away. Do douse sparklers with water and allow them to cool in a safe place away from children. The ends of sparklers remain hot for some time, and will easily burn a child’s skin, clothing, or nearby combustible material. Do arm yourselves in advance with information on how to administer First Aid to the injured person. * Remove the child from the heat source. * Remove clothing from…More
