Quick answer
Burst crackers in open spaces, light them at arm's length with a long agarbatti, keep water and sand ready, wear cotton and never re-light a dud. For a burn, cool it under clean running water for 10–20 minutes, remove rings or tight clothing, cover loosely with a clean cloth and get medical help for anything larger than a coin or on the face, hands or eyes.
Before you start
- Choose an open area away from parked vehicles, dry leaves and building entrances.
- Keep a bucket of water, a bucket of sand and a first-aid kit nearby.
- Store unused crackers in a closed box, away from diyas and lamps.
While lighting
- Use a long agarbatti, not a matchstick or lighter.
- Light at arm's length and step back immediately.
- One cracker at a time; never hold anything except sparklers in your hand.
- Never light crackers indoors, in balconies or in containers.
Duds
Wait 15 minutes, then soak the cracker in water. Never go back to inspect or re-light it.
Burn first aid
- Cool the burn under cool running water for 10–20 minutes. Do not use ice, butter, toothpaste or oil.
- Remove rings, bangles or tight clothing near the area unless stuck.
- Cover loosely with clean cling film or a clean cloth.
- Seek medical help for large burns, or burns on the face, hands, eyes or genitals. In an emergency call 108.
Eye injury: do not rub; cover gently and go to an eye hospital immediately.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after a cracker burn?
Cool the burn under running water for 10–20 minutes, do not apply ice or toothpaste, cover loosely and see a doctor for large burns or burns on the face, hands or eyes.
