How to treat a burn due to firecrackers during Diwali

Diwali is a festival of lights and sometimes in our excitement to set off firecrackers we forget that they could be dangerous. If you or someone close to you sustained a burn or injury during the celebrations, you know how to treat a burn caused by a firecracker fire!

How to Cure Fireworks Burn During Diwali?

A burn is a skin injury caused primarily by heat, although it can also be caused by the heat and chemicals in fireworks. Because of their thinner skin, children are particularly susceptible. And no matter how careful you are when setting off firecrackers, accidents still happen frequently. Let’s see what you can do in response to that.

Health Shots turned to Dr. Vikrant Shah, Consultant Physician, Critical Care Physician and Infectious Disease Specialist, Zen Multispeciality Hospital Chembur to find out how to treat firecracker injuries during the Diwali celebration.

Here are 3 tips to follow to treat a firecracker burn during Diwali:

1. Cold water

If you are prone to minor burns, hold the affected area under cold running water or opt for a cold compress on the area. Cooling the burn reduces pain, swelling, and the risk of scarring. In fact, it can also reduce the effects of firing firecrackers.

2. Bandage

Use sterile gauze and loosely tie a bandage around the affected area. If you keep the wound covered, it will heal faster.

3. Moisturizer

Try applying a moisturizing lotion to the affected area to avoid dry skin. This also reduces the chance of blisters. Don’t use any creams, lotions, or products without asking the doctor. Painkillers should only be taken as directed by a doctor.

Treatment of eye injuries caused by fireworks

Fireworks can rupture the eyeball or cause chemical and thermal burns, all of which can result in lifelong eye injuries. So if your eyes are damaged by firecrackers, go straight to the hospital. Still, try applying an eye pad or a mild, clean bandage to the injured eye if the damage is minor. Or you can simply use water to rinse the eye.

5 home remedies you can follow regularly to heal the burn completely

1. Aloe vera

Aloe vera can work wonders on burned skin. Are you aware? Aloe Vera is excellent for treating first degree burns. Aloe vera’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties tend to increase blood flow around the burn, which further limits the growth of bacteria in that area and can protect you from infection. Use pure aloe vera gel, which is extracted directly from the leaf of the plant. Say NO to artificial ones.

Also read: This first aid guide for minor burns will help you with cooking accidents

2. Honey

Honey is perfectly safe for mild to moderate burns. It is naturally anti-inflammatory and antibacterial and helps with first degree burns.

3. Coconut Oil

Contrary to popular belief, coconut oil can’t treat everything. But it can definitely help. Coconut oil contains vitamin E, which is great for fighting burn marks on the skin.

4. Lavender Oil

The linalyl acetate and beta-caryophyllene are pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties in lavender oil and help treat minor burns. It can speed up the recovery process.

Also read: Preventing skin burns is possible NOW. Just follow these neat tricks

5. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is loaded with antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties that allow one to deal with minor burns.