LAGATAR24 DESK
Bengaluru: As Deepavali approaches, Bengaluru’s Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, Minto Ophthalmic Hospital, and Victoria Hospital are setting up special wards to treat firecracker-related injuries. Minto Ophthalmic Hospital has dedicated a firecracker injury ward with 35 beds, including 10 for men, 10 for women, and 15 for children needing inpatient care. Victoria Hospital has established a separate block for cracker burns, equipped with individual cabins to prevent cross-contamination.
Dr. Ramesh Krishna K, Dean and Director of BMCRI, announced on Tuesday that both hospitals offer 24×7 emergency and surgical treatment for firecracker injuries. “Bottle rockets and close-range firecracker explosions can cause severe eye injuries,” the hospitals warned in their safety directive, which reminded the public that crackers emitting over 125 decibels at four meters are legally banned.
Emergency Contacts for Cracker Injuries: 7498809105, 9740322179, 8197969128, 9994584495
Safety Dos and Don’ts
Do:
- Douse unexploded firecrackers with water or sand.
- Discard used fireworks in a water bucket to prevent stepping hazards.
- Light crackers in open spaces and rockets from a terrace in low wind.
- Maintain a safe distance and have children light crackers only under adult supervision.
- Wear cotton clothes and keep water sources handy in case of fire.
Don’t:
- Avoid lighting crackers in hand or throwing them at others.
- Don’t wear flowy clothes, and avoid picking up unexploded crackers.
In Case of a Burn Injury:
- Run cool water over the burn area, cover with a clean cloth, and avoid using unprescribed ointments.
- Seek immediate medical attention for severe burns, especially those involving eyes or larger areas.
Bengaluru hospitals are prepared to handle emergency cases, reinforcing their commitment to public safety during the festive season.
