Every Diwali, hospitals see burn and eye injuries, fire services get extra calls, and fake sale links do the rounds on WhatsApp. Most of these problems come from a few avoidable mistakes. Here are eleven to watch for tonight, plus what to do if something goes wrong.
Keep these numbers handy
- Emergency response: 112
- Fire: 101
- Ambulance: 102 or 108
- Cyber fraud helpline: 1930, and cybercrime.gov.in
Fire and firecracker mistakes
1. Wearing loose synthetic clothes. Synthetic fabric can catch fire and melt on skin. Choose cotton, and tie up long dupattas and loose sleeves near diyas.
2. Lighting crackers while holding them. Keep crackers on the ground in an open area. Stand at arm’s length and step away quickly.
3. Going back to a dud cracker. A cracker that did not go off may still explode. Wait, then pour water on it from a distance. Never relight it.
4. Leaving children alone. Sparklers burn very hot. An adult should be present at all times, and keep a bucket of water or sand nearby.
5. Placing diyas near curtains. Keep lamps away from curtains, paper decorations and stairs. Put out diyas and candles before you sleep.
6. Overloading sockets. Several strings of lights on one extension board can overheat. Use certified lights, and switch them off at night.
If someone gets burned
- Move them away from the fire.
- Cool the burn under cool running water for about 20 minutes.
- Remove rings or tight items before swelling starts.
- Cover loosely with a clean cloth.
- Do not apply toothpaste, butter or ice.
- Go to a hospital for large burns, or burns on the face or hands.
For eye injuries: do not rub the eye. Rinse with clean water and see an eye doctor right away.
Health mistakes
7. Ignoring the air. Air quality often worsens around Diwali. People with asthma, heart disease, and older people and children should limit time outdoors, and keep medicines close. Masks such as N95 can help outdoors.
8. Too many sweets and fried snacks. Many people, especially those with diabetes, overdo it during the festival. Buy sweets from a trusted shop, as adulteration cases rise during festivals, and keep portions small.
Money and online mistakes
9. Clicking “Diwali gift” links. Fake messages promise free gifts or bumper offers from big brands. They can steal your login or install harmful apps. Do not click links from unknown senders, and go directly to the brand’s site.
10. Sharing your UPI PIN to receive money. You never need a PIN to receive money. If someone asks you to scan a QR code or enter a PIN to get a refund, it is a scam.
11. Leaving your home empty and posting about it. If you are travelling for the festival, lock up, ask a neighbour to keep an eye out, and avoid posting your trip in real time.
Been cheated online?
Call 1930 as soon as possible and report at cybercrime.gov.in. Also inform your bank to block your card or UPI. Fast reporting can sometimes help freeze the money.
Kinder to pets and neighbours
Loud crackers can frighten pets, street animals, babies and older people. Check your local rules on crackers and timings, as these differ by city, and courts have set limits in some places.
Before the evening begins, see the Lakshmi Puja muhurat and Muhurat trading timings.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first for a firecracker burn?
Cool it under cool running water for about 20 minutes, and see a doctor for serious burns.
Is it safe to put toothpaste on a burn?
No. Use only cool running water, and cover it loosely.
Where do I report a Diwali online scam?
Call 1930 or use cybercrime.gov.in.
This is general safety information, not medical advice. In an emergency, call for help immediately.
Questions to think about
- How can cities keep the joy of Diwali and still protect clean air?
- Should schools teach basic burn first aid before festivals?
- What is one change your family could make this year for a safer Diwali?
Sources: government emergency numbers, National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and standard burn first-aid advice from health authorities.
