Cracker safety tips for families this Diwali

A happy Diwali is a safe one. Keep these simple rules handy (and read the instructions printed on every box).

Before you start

• Buy only from a licensed shop, and store crackers in a cool, dry place away from flames and electrical points.
• Wear cotton clothes; avoid loose, flowing or synthetic fabrics.
• Keep a bucket of water and a bucket of sand ready, and keep pets indoors.

While bursting

• Children should always have an adult with them.
• Use an open area, away from buildings, vehicles, dry leaves and overhead wires.
• Light at arm's length with an agarbatti or long sparkler, then step back. Never lean over a cracker.
• Light one at a time. Never hold crackers in your hand (except sparklers, held away from the body).
• Rockets go in a stable bottle or stand, pointed straight up and away from people and homes.

If a cracker doesn't go off

Never relight it or go close to look. Wait at least 15–20 minutes, then soak it in water before throwing it away.

After the fun

• Drop used sparkler wires and burnt crackers into the water bucket.
• Check the area for anything still smouldering before you go in.

Burns and emergencies

• Cool a burn under clean running water for 10–20 minutes. Don't put ice, toothpaste or oil on it. See a doctor for anything more than a small burn.
• Emergency numbers in India: 112 (all emergencies), 101 (fire), 108 (ambulance).