Diwali 2025: Never Use Turmeric or Toothpaste on Cracker Burns, Warn Doctors

Diwali 2025: Many people light fireworks during Diwali. But a moment of carelessness can be dangerous and every year hundreds get burns from fireworks. Fireworks have many chemicals that can cause severe skin burns and in some cases very serious.

Many apply toothpaste or turmeric on burns. But doctors advise against it. Instead of applying toothpaste, turmeric or potato on a burn, proper first aid should be given to the injury.

Dr. Raman Sharma, a plastic and cosmetic surgeon at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, told News18 that the first thing to do if someone gets burned by fireworks or lamps is to rinse the injured area for at least five to ten minutes with clean, cold water. This can lessen the severity of the cut and helps to cool the skin.

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Additionally, one should avoid touching the burn and always use clean hands when providing first aid.

To lower the danger of infection and encourage healing, the area must be treated with an antiseptic cream or burn ointment after washing. A fresh cotton rag can be used to cover the wound if burn cream is not available. It is advisable to seek medical attention at the nearest hospital as soon as possible.

Avoid Harmful Home Remedies

Dr Sharma warns that applying toothpaste or turmeric to burns can be harmful. Chemicals in toothpaste may react with the skin, worsening the injury, while turmeric can trap dirt in the wound, making it difficult to assess properly. Therefore, avoid these home remedies.

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In case of severe burns, remove burnt clothes carefully to expose the skin to air, wash the area again, cover with a clean cotton sheet or cloth and take the injured person to the doctor immediately. Timely and proper first aid can save lives and reduce skin damage. A little carelessness at this time can be dangerous.

How To Prevent Burn Injuries During Diwali?

Additionally, experts suggest taking preventative measures to avoid burn injuries during Diwali.

Loose or flowing clothes can catch fire from clay oil lamps or candles so wear clothes that fit.

Especially women and children should avoid synthetic clothes. Wear cotton clothes and be careful while burning candles or fireworks.

Never let children handle fireworks alone and make them wear long sleeves.

Elderly should be kept away from crowded areas and places where fireworks are being lit.

Burns are common during Diwali but with a little care these can be avoided.

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