It is the time of celebration and joy, but it can also be a time of danger for our eyes. Diwali, chhath puja and wedding festivities are definitely fun but bursting crackers in the name of celebration can prove to be detrimental for your eyes. Time and again, fireworks have caused cases of serious eye injuries, ranging from minor irritation to permanent damage. It is important to be precautious so your eyes don’t suffer. We reached out to Dr Nikunj V. Patel, Consultant - Cornea, Anterior Segment & Refractive Service at Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, Daryaganj who shared useful tips to safeguard your eyes from potential damage during the festive season.
7 Tips to Protect Your Eyes from Cracker Burns
Tip 1: Wear Protective Eyewear
The most effective way to protect your eyes from cracker burns is to wear protective eyewear. This can include safety glasses or goggles that fit snugly over your eyes. These protective eyewear act as a barrier between your eyes and the burning sparks and debris from the crackers. They can help prevent eye injuries and minimise the risk of burns.
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Tip 2: Maintain a Safe Distance
Another important tip is to maintain a safe distance from the crackers when they are being burst. It is best to watch the fireworks from a distance, rather than standing close to them. This will help reduce the risk of sparks and debris reaching your eyes. If you are lighting crackers yourself, make sure to keep a safe distance from the explosive device and avoid looking directly at it when it is lit.
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Tip 3: Avoid Looking Directly at the Crackers
Looking directly at the crackers can cause eye damage, as the bright light and heat from the explosion can harm your eyes. Instead, try to focus your gaze slightly to the side of the cracker, so that you are not directly looking at the explosion. This will minimise the risk of eye damage.
Tip 4: Use a Barrier
If you are watching the fireworks from a close distance, use a barrier such as a wall or a tree to protect your eyes. This will help block any stray sparks or debris that may come your way. You can also use a blanket or a towel to cover your head and eyes, creating a makeshift barrier between your eyes and the explosive device.
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Tip 5: Keep Your Eyes Moist
Dry eyes can be more susceptible to injury from cracker burns. To keep your eyes moist, use artificial tears or eye drops before and after exposure to fireworks. This will help lubricate your eyes and reduce the risk of irritation or burns.
Tip 6: Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
If your eyes do become irritated or burned, avoid rubbing them. Rubbing can further irritate the eyes and make the condition worse. Instead, flush your eyes with water or use a cold compress to soothe the area.
Tip 7: Seek Medical Attention
If your eye irritation persists or worsens, seek medical attention immediately. Eye injuries can be serious and may require prompt treatment to prevent long-term damage.
Following these simple tips can help safeguard your eyes from Diwali cracker burns. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your eyes.