Kolkata, November 2, 2026: As Kolkata prepares for Kali Pujo celebrations, doctors at RG Hospitals have cautioned residents about the dangers of firecracker-related burns and the risks of improper first-aid measures. During the 2025 Diwali–Kali Puja period, hospitals in the city reported cases ranging from minor hand burns to injuries requiring hospital admission, with one hospital treating over 10 cases in a single day and another handling eight patients over two nights.
Medical professionals stressed the importance of timely intervention and correct first-aid practices to prevent complications from burn injuries.
Risks of Improper First Aid
Dr. Debashis Deb, Senior Consultant in General and Laparoscopic Surgery at RG Stone Urology & Laparoscopy Hospital, Kolkata, said that household remedies such as toothpaste, ghee, oil, or applying ice directly to burns can worsen injuries. He advised that the immediate priority should be cooling the affected area under running water and seeking medical attention for serious cases. Burns involving the hands, face, or eyes, as well as deep or extensive burns, require prompt evaluation to reduce the risk of complications, Dr. Deb added.
Severity and Complications of Firecracker Burns
Firecracker burns can affect only the outer skin or penetrate deeper tissues, depending on exposure. Severe burns may damage blood vessels, nerves, and surrounding structures, especially when hands or joints are involved, potentially impacting movement and function. Injuries to the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints are particularly concerning due to the risk of functional impairment and complications. Deep burns may require specialised dressings, wound monitoring, removal of damaged tissue, or surgical intervention.
Recommended First-Aid Steps
Doctors warned against applying household substances, popping blisters, peeling away damaged skin, or pulling off clothing stuck to the wound. Instead, the affected area should be cooled under running water for about 20 minutes, and jewellery or clothing should be removed only if not stuck to the skin. After cooling, the burn should be covered loosely with a clean, non-fluffy dressing, and creams or antiseptics should be avoided unless advised by a healthcare professional. Extensive or deep burns, injuries involving the face or hands, breathing difficulties, or eye injuries require urgent medical attention.
Prevention and When to Seek Help
Residents are advised to light firecrackers in open spaces, follow safety instructions, supervise children, and avoid handling unexploded crackers. Keeping water or a fire extinguisher nearby is recommended. Large or deep burns, injuries to sensitive areas, white or charred skin, reduced sensation, breathing difficulties, or signs of infection such as increasing redness, swelling, discharge, pain, or fever should prompt immediate medical evaluation.
Doctors at RG Hospitals Kolkata emphasised that avoiding unverified home remedies and seeking timely medical care can reduce complications and aid recovery during Kali Pujo celebrations.
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