Diwali is around the corner and children are an excited bunch right now. The thought of bursting firecrackers and having fun makes them squeal in joy. However, those unfortunately afflicted with asthma or other respiratory conditions must be protected against smoke and pollution emanating during Diwali. Their guardians need to take extra precautions to ensure they are safe. Dr. Kushal Agrawal, HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics at KVR HOSPITAL, Kashipur, shares some tips on how to go about it.
7 Tips To Keep Children Safe During Diwali
According to Dr. Agrawal, to protect children with respiratory disorders during Diwali, the focus should be on indoor air quality, pollution management, and other safety measures. Some of the tips are:
1) Management of Indoor Air Quality
Use air Purifiers:Reduce indoor pollution by using air purifiers with HEPA filters, particularly in areas with poor outdoor air quality. Adjust the purifier's settings to the number of people using the room.
Keep doors and windows closed:Avoid letting outside pollutants in by keeping doors and windows closed during periods of high pollution.
Steer clear of coal and wood for fires: Smokeless electric heaters or fireplaces can be a safer, pollution-free substitute for fire pits that burn coal or wood.
2) Substitute Conventional Candles, Diyas
Conventional candles and diyas have the potential to increase indoor pollution. To lessen smoke inhalation, use eco-friendly substitutes like LED candles or electric diyas.
3) Reduce Exposure To Outdoors
Remain indoors during peak hours: Reduce outdoor activities, particularly in the evening when pollution is at its highest. Whenever possible, people with respiratory disorders, the elderly, and children should stay indoors.
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Use mask: Wear an N95 mask when you go outside, especially if you are in an area with a lot of pollution. Reusing masks should be avoided, and if you want to protect your eyes from contaminants, think about using glasses.
4) Measures For Respiratory Relief
Drops of nasal saline: For babies and toddlers, use saline drops to soothe irritated nasal passages caused by smoking or other pollutants. Steer clear of medicinal drops unless a doctor has recommended them.
Steam inhalation: Inhaling gentle steam can help reduce congestion in toddlers older than one year. Make use of a humidifier or a careful, gentle steam inhalation for the baby.
5) Hydration, Detox
Fluid intake: To aid in the body's detoxification and help flush out impurities, drink water, coconut water, and mild herbal teas daily.
Nutrient-rich soups:After festival snacks, older children can benefit from light-boiled vegetables or soups to improve digestion and restore nutrients.
6) Drugs And Emergency Supplies
Preventive drugs: Before the holiday season, patients with asthma or severe allergies should speak with their doctor about getting injections or preventive drugs.
Emergency kits:Make sure inhalers and emergency kits are on hand and prepared in case of sudden respiratory problems.
7) Avoid Outdoor Physical Activities
Avoid exercising outside during Diwali because breathing in contaminated air for extended periods might cause lung strain. Instead, to promote respiratory health, think about doing yoga or indoor breathing exercises.
"Maintaining a safe and healthful atmosphere for kids and family members with respiratory sensitivities during and after Diwali can be greatly improved by heeding these guidelines," Dr. Agrawal wraps up.
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