Chandigarh, 31st October 2024— The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) announced it will offer round-the-clock support for burn and eye injuries during the festive season, as it urges the public to celebrate Diwali safely and sustainably.
The institute has also released guidelines to help prevent common Diwali-related injuries and promote eco-friendly practices.
“Burn injuries and eye trauma are frequent during Diwali due to firecrackers, which also contribute to air pollution,” PGIMER stated in its advisory,stating the health risks associated with firecracker use. Dr. Atul Parashar, head of PGIMER’s plastic surgery department, urged the public to celebrate responsibly and assured that his team would be available 24×7 to treat burn cases.
Dr. Parashar provided guidance on burn injury types, explaining that first-degree burns cause redness and mild pain, second-degree burns result in blistering and intense pain, and third-degree burns lead to deep tissue damage, often with numbness. In case of a burn, he advised running cool water over the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes and avoiding actions like puncturing blisters, applying substances like toothpaste, or using dirty cloths.
Eye injuries pose another significant Diwali risk, according to Dr. S.S. Pandav, head of PGIMER’s Advanced Eye Centre, who announced an emergency roster from October 30 to November 2 for prompt treatment of eye-related incidents. “We recommend protective eyewear, as even bystanders can be at risk,” Pandav said, adding that children should handle firecrackers only under adult supervision.
Pandav also noted the importance of hand hygiene while making ‘rangolis,’ noting that certain colors can irritate the eyes. In case of an eye injury, he advised against pressing the eye or trying to remove foreign objects, instead suggesting the eye be loosely covered until medical help arrives.
PGIMER doctors also cautioned individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or bronchitis, to take preventive steps given the rise in air pollution during Diwali. By adhering to these safety guidelines, PGIMER aims to minimize health risks and encourage a Diwali that is both safe and environmentally conscious.
