This archive report was first published on 25 October 2019.
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is just around the corner, and with it comes the excitement of fireworks displays. However, safety should be the top priority when handling these explosive devices.
According to Tony Sahni, chief executive of Securex agencies, there are several safety measures that can prevent accidents when handling fireworks. The first and most crucial tip is to keep them out of children's reach.
Children may be fascinated by the fireworks and want to light them, but this can lead to mishandling and serious consequences such as burns and eye damage. It's essential to keep them away from children and only allow adults to handle the fireworks.
Another crucial safety measure is to have a fire extinguisher on standby. Fireworks can spiral out of control and turn into a dangerous fire, and having a fire extinguisher nearby can help control the situation.
It's also essential to not use fireworks indoors. This can lead to a higher risk of damage and injury, especially if the fireworks take the wrong trajectory. Instead, light them in an open area and keep people at a safe distance.
When handling fireworks, it's also crucial to put on protective clothing. The black powder in fireworks contains harmful elements such as charcoal, sulphur, and potassium nitrate, which can cause damage to human beings. Wearing gloves can help avoid direct contact with these elements.
Additionally, do not reignite malfunctioned fireworks. If a firework fails to ignite, do not try to reignite it, but instead, throw it away. It's also essential to buy fireworks only from licensed and trusted distributors to avoid such situations.
Lastly, clean up all firework material after use. Debris from fireworks can still be flammable, and children may be tempted to play with them, putting themselves at risk. Clean up the debris and soak the fireworks in a bucket of water overnight to completely put them out.
By following these safety tips, residents can enjoy the Diwali celebrations while minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.
