Diwali is among the most loved festivals in India, and is generally celebrated with a lot of grandeur. There are lots of lights, sweets and gifts everywhere, and these make for quite a pretty sight!
But Diwali celebrations are often followed by several visits to nearby clinics, and this report states that burn incidents take on epidemic proportions during Diwali. While babies may not actually light a sparkler or a chakri, they are still susceptible to injuries during Diwali. Here are a few simple tips to keep your baby safe this Diwali.
1. Dress your baby appropriately
While Diwali is usually during a season when the weather starts to get cooler, the bursting of crackers can alter the ambient temperature. So keep baby dressed in layers, so you can remove them if he seems uncomfortable.
2. Keep baby far, far away
This is a no-brainer, but is so important that we thought it had to be mentioned. Fireworks are extremely hot; sparklers can reach a temperature of 982 degrees - hot enough to melt gold! So if you are outdoors to watch the fireworks display, sit very far away from where the bursting is happening. Fireworks can go off in any direction, so be at a safe distance.
3. Have a panic room ready
With babies, you can't predict how they'll behave. Some babies will sleep right through all the noise, while some can get very distressed at all the bursting. Keep a room ready at home with all the essentials so that you can take baby there right away, should things get too stimulating for him.
4. Plan ahead
You probably know beforehand when the fireworks will start at your place, so get baby ready before hand. A well-fed, well-rested and dry baby is more likely to enjoy herself than a hungry, cranky baby. It's also a good idea to have a close relative by your side, especially if you need to occasionally run after your older child.
5. Have a pair of earmuffs
Fireworks can be really loud, going up to 160 decibels, whereas a newborn's hearing can get damaged by sounds that are more than 85 decibels. Ear plugs are not recommended for young babies due to their being a choking hazard, so a pair of soft ear muffs should help.
Generally speaking, it's better to keep your baby indoors while the fireworks are going on, with the windows and doors closed to block out the noise and smoke. If you have an older child, entrust your spouse or grandparents to supervise him. With a few simple precautions, you can ensure that this Diwali leaves behind only memories and not injuries! Happy Diwali!
Image courtesy: Flickr Creative CommonsLots of Love,
