Diwali safety tips: Diwali burns first aid kit essentials recommended by doctors for quick relief

Be prepared this Diwali with essential first aid items to treat burns quickly and safely as advised by doctors. (Image: Pexels)

Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time for happiness, family and friends. Households in different parts of the country shine bright lights that are lit with diyas, candles and bursting colourful fireworks increases in energy and enthusiasm. Still amid the festivities one of the biggest dangers pops its ugly head. Firecrackers, hot oil from diyas and candles can lead to minor as well as serious injuries. A quick and proper first aid could make all the difference in how fast and efficiently the burn will heal, helping avoid infections and long-term scarring.

A well-stocked first aid kit is one of the most useful things you can do to keep yourself and your family safe this Holiday season. A burn emergency kit enables you to act immediately should an accident occur and to relieve the pain until professional medical assistance is obtained. Every household, especially during Diwali, should carry a basic burn care kit with sterile gauze, burn ointments, antiseptic wipes and painkillers. With a bit of preparation and keenness, you may be part of the festival with all eyes open, guaranteeing your safety and that of your nearest.

Also read: Diwali safety tips: Plastic surgeon on what you should do when there is a burn injury

Dr Karan Bakshish Singh (Sr. Consultant – Plastic Surgery), Fortis Hospital, Ludhiana told Moneycontrol, “Diwali time is when burns from diyas, candles or the type soaring chemical crackers are quite prevalent and going by how they look; people generally tend to ignore them which is not always good”. Even small burns can be serious if they’re not attended to correctly in the first few minutes.

It’s good to have a basic first-aid kit at home containing items like sterile gauze, burn ointment, nonstick dressings, antiseptic solution, clean scissors and over-the-counter pain relievers. A cold pack can also ease the pain and minimize infection. “Fast, careful first aid can make a big difference in how well the skin will heal and may even decrease the risk of long-term problems or need for more aggressive treatment down the road.”

According to Dr Chintan Gujarati, Cosmetic/Plastic Surgeon, Ruby Hall Clinic Pune a burn first aid kit should be well-stocked and can be used for receiving immediate medication. Include the following:

• Sterile gauze pads Non – stick to protect the burn.

• Burn dressings – Hydrogel or burn-specialized dressings for pain relief and better healing.

• Adhesive tape – To help fix the dressing without sticking to the burn.

• Antiseptic solution/wipes – To prevent infection.

• Analgesia – Paracetamol or ibuprofen make good follow up analgesia and are available over the counter.

• Disposable gowns – To lessen the risk of becoming infected while treating burns.

• Scissors – To cut around the gauze or clothing on the burn.

• Thermometer – This is optional, it would allow you to test for potential risk of a fever or infection.

Q: What are the essential items in a burn first aid kit for Diwali?

A: Essential items include sterile gauze pads, burn dressings, adhesive tape, antiseptic solution/wipes, analgesia (paracetamol or ibuprofen), disposable gowns, scissors, and optionally, a thermometer.

Q: Why is it important to have a burn first aid kit during Diwali?

A: Having a burn first aid kit enables immediate response to burn injuries, relieving pain and reducing the risk of infections and long-term scarring before professional medical help is available.

Q: What should I do if someone gets burned by firecrackers or diyas during Diwali?

A: Quickly administer first aid using the burn care kit, apply burn ointment, use sterile gauze, and seek professional medical assistance as soon as possible.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.