Mumbai – October 19, 2025

Diwali is a time for lights, celebrations, and the excitement of bursting firecrackers. However, along with the festivities comes the risk of burn injuries, which affect thousands of people every year. From minor burns to severe injuries, the immediate response can make a significant difference in recovery and preventing complications such as infections or permanent skin damage. Understanding basic first-aid measures is crucial for enjoying the festival safely.

Dr. Manan Vora, a Mumbai-based orthopaedic surgeon, health educator, and co-founder of NutriByte Wellness, recently shared key guidelines for managing burn injuries during Diwali. In an Instagram video posted on October 18, he emphasized that awareness and preparedness can prevent panic and reduce the severity of injuries. Dr. Vora outlined five essential steps that everyone should follow when handling burns caused by firecrackers.

1. Wear Cotton or Natural Fabrics

Dr. Vora recommends wearing clothing made of cotton or other natural fabrics, as these are less likely to melt and stick to the skin if exposed to fire. Synthetic fabrics, by contrast, can adhere to burns, increasing pain and injury severity. Choosing appropriate clothing is a simple preventive step that significantly reduces risk.

2. Cool the Burn Immediately

In case of a burn, it is important to act quickly. Dr. Vora advises immersing the affected area in clean, cool water for at least 10 minutes. He warns against using ice-cold water, as extreme cold can further damage the skin. Cooling the burn helps reduce pain, swelling, and the extent of tissue damage.

3. Avoid Pulling Off Stuck Fabric

If clothing becomes stuck to the skin due to a burn, do not attempt to remove it forcefully. Dr. Vora cautions that pulling off burnt fabric can tear the skin and cause deeper injuries. Instead, leave the fabric in place and seek medical attention immediately, allowing professionals to handle removal safely.

4. Skip Home Remedies

Popular home remedies such as butter, toothpaste, oils, or ice can worsen burns by trapping heat or increasing infection risk. Dr. Vora stresses avoiding these treatments and relying on proper medical care instead. Using unverified remedies can delay recovery and lead to complications.

5. Seek Medical Help Promptly

Large burns, burns involving the face, joints, fingers, or those showing signs of infection require immediate professional attention. Dr. Vora urges people not to wait it out and to contact medical services without delay. Early medical intervention is essential for minimizing long-term damage and ensuring proper healing.

Dr. Vora’s guidelines serve as a practical, life-saving checklist for Diwali celebrations. By following these five steps—choosing safe clothing, cooling burns immediately, avoiding harmful remedies, leaving stuck fabric intact, and seeking prompt medical care—people can enjoy the festival while reducing the risk of injury.

With firecrackers remaining an integral part of Diwali, awareness and preparation are key to celebrating safely. Dr. Vora’s advice underscores the importance of education, caution, and timely response to ensure that the festivities remain joyous and injury-free for all participants.

 Mumbai Surgeon Shares 5 Key Tips for Safe Diwali

Diwali celebrations bring lights, joy, and firecrackers, but burn injuries are common during the festival. Mumbai-based orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Manan Vora shares five essential safety tips. Wear cotton or natural fabrics to prevent burns from sticking. Cool any burn immediately with clean, cool water for at least 10 minutes. Avoid pulling off clothes stuck to the skin and skip home remedies like butter or toothpaste. Seek medical help immediately for large burns, burns on the face, joints, or fingers, or if infection appears. Following these steps ensures a safer and worry-free Diwali celebration.