Last year, more than 500 people suffered eye injuries during Diwali. As the festive fervor grips us, it is essential to keep eyes protected. As young and the old alike enthusiastically participate in this blissful festival of lights, one should not ignore safety, especially when it comes to eye health. Here is a checklist ensuring you and your loved ones are safe this Diwali.

Avoid crackers that emit excessive smokeAvoid bursting crackers that emit excessive smoke, as it can be harmful to the eyes. They can cause irritation, itching and redness in the eyes. If symptoms persist, consult your eye specialist for a thorough examination. Do not self-medicate.Check for spectaclesIf your child already wears spectacles, ensure they are correctly fitted to avoid damage while playing sports, such as running. If possible, let your children wear some protective eyeglasses while bursting crackers, even if they don’t have any eye problems. This will ensure their eyes are always protected. Avoid wearing contact lenses while lighting firecrackers or in areas of smoke.Wear comfortable clothesDiwali is the festival of lights, which means we are very close to fire. To avoid any mishappening, avoid wearing flowing gowns or highly flammable fabrics like nylon and silk while bursting firecrackers. Wear comfortable clothes. Be extra cautious while bursting crackers or lighting the diyas and candles.Supervise childrenChildren should always be accompanied by their parents or guardians. Crackers should be lit outdoors, preferably in open grounds, under the supervision of parents. They should also be taught safety precautions before bursting the crackers.Check your blood sugar levelsBe mindful while munching on the deep-fried Diwali goodies and desserts, as it can lead to blood sugar spikes. High blood sugar is especially detrimental to diabetics as well as children, as India is already on the brink of childhood obesity being a primary concern. Prefer healthier alternatives this Diwali.Visit an eye doctor regularlyDo not miss your regular follow-up appointments with your eye doctor if you are above 50 years of age. People who are diabetic, hypertensive, or suffering from a chronic eye condition like glaucoma or macular degeneration should also visit an ophthalmologist regularly. Make eye check-ups a part of your regular health check-ups. Parents should also ensure that their school-going children’s eyesight is checked every six months.

What to do in case of an eye injury during Diwali

Even after taking all precautions, if an eye injury still occurs, you must take immediate steps to protect the eyes. First of all. Do not rub or squeeze the eye. It should be immediately washed under clean tap water. Rubbing youreyes with dirty hands can cause eye infections etc. If you find any burning sensation, irritation, or any other eye problem, consult your eye specialist at the earliest.

Measures for Proactive Care

A few simple modern solutions can keep your eyes comfortable and safe:

Diwali is a time for festivities, but amidst the lights and fireworks, it’s crucial to prioritise eye safety. Families must adopt simple safety measures, such as limiting exposure to bright lights, and wearing protective eyewear. Maintaining proper hydration keeps your eyes moisturised and lessens the likelihood of discomfort or strain from outside influences. Celebrate the festival of lights responsibly while preserving your eyesight.Dr. Jay Goyal, Eye Surgeon, LASIK specialist, Director, Surya Eye Hospital, Mumbai