Diwali, a festival greatly awaited and joyously celebrated, holds a prominent place in Indian culture. It is a time of joy, prosperity, and gratitude. It is also a time of lights, fireworks, and sweets. However, Diwali can also pose some risks and challenges for our health, safety, and environment. Therefore, it is important to follow some dos and don’ts for a bright and safe Diwali celebration, ensuring a green Diwali and a safe Diwali for all. Here are some tips that can help you enjoy this festival without compromising your well-being and the well-being of others.
Do: Use Eco-Friendly and Safe Fireworks
Fireworks are an integral part of Diwali, but they can also cause air and noise pollution, injuries, and accidents. Therefore, it is advisable to use eco-friendly and safe fireworks that are made of natural materials, produce less smoke and noise, and have lower chemical content.
You can also opt for alternatives such as diyas, candles, lanterns, and electric lights to decorate your home and surroundings. These options are not only safer but also more beautiful and elegant, embodying the spirit of a 'Green Diwali safe Diwali'.
Don’t: Burst Fireworks in Crowded or Restricted Areas
Fireworks can be dangerous if not handled properly. They can cause burns, eye injuries, fire hazards, and even explosions. Therefore, it is important to burst fireworks in open and spacious areas, away from buildings, vehicles, power lines, and flammable materials.
You should also avoid bursting fireworks in areas where they are prohibited, such as near hospitals, schools, religious places, and wildlife sanctuaries. You should also respect the timings and guidelines issued by the authorities regarding the use of fireworks, adhering to Diwali precautions and Diwali safety tips.
Do: Wear Protective Gear and Follow Safety Precautions
Fireworks can be fun, but they can also be unpredictable and risky. Therefore, it is essential to wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, earplugs, and masks while bursting fireworks. You should also follow safety precautions such as keeping a safe distance, lighting one firework at a time, using a long stick or a sparkler to light fireworks, and disposing of used fireworks properly.
You should also keep a bucket of water, a fire extinguisher, and a first-aid kit handy in case of any emergency. These are important aspects of what are the safe rules for Diwali and what are the tips for Diwali celebration.
Don’t: Let Children or Pets Handle Fireworks
Children and pets are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of fireworks. They can get scared, injured, or even poisoned by the fireworks. Therefore, it is advisable to keep children and pets away from fireworks and supervise them closely if they are around.
You should also educate them about the dangers and consequences of fireworks and discourage them from playing with them. You should also ensure that your pets are comfortable and secure during the Diwali festivities.
Do: Enjoy Healthy and Homemade Sweets
Sweets are another essential part of Diwali, but they can also be unhealthy and adulterated. Therefore, it is advisable to enjoy healthy and homemade sweets that are made of natural ingredients, low in sugar and fat, and high in nutrition. You can also try some innovative and delicious recipes that are suitable for Diwali, such as fruit salads, dry fruits, nuts, and dark chocolate. These options are healthier, more satisfying, and more fulfilling, perfectly aligning with the 'Green Diwali, Safe Diwali' theme.
Don’t: Overindulge or Waste Food
Sweets can be tempting, but they can also be harmful if consumed in excess. They can cause weight gain, diabetes, tooth decay, and other health problems. Therefore, it is important to control your portions and limit your intake of sweets and other high-calorie foods.
You should also avoid wasting food and share it with others who are less fortunate. You should also donate or compost any leftover food and avoid throwing it away, keeping in mind Diwali precautions.
Do: Celebrate Diwali with Your Family and Friends
Diwali is a festival of relationships, bonds, and emotions. It is a time to reconnect with your loved ones and express your gratitude and affection. Therefore, it is advisable to celebrate Diwali with your family and friends, either in person or virtually.
You can also exchange gifts, greetings, and blessings with them and make them feel special and appreciated. You can also involve them in your Diwali preparations and activities, such as cleaning, decorating, cooking, and praying, following Diwali safety tips.
Don’t: Ignore the COVID-19 Guidelines and Precautions
Diwali is a festival of joy, but it can also be a festival of risk, especially in the times of COVID-19. Therefore, it is important to follow the COVID-19 guidelines and precautions issued by the authorities and experts, such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, avoiding large gatherings, and sanitizing frequently.
You should also get vaccinated if you are eligible and monitor your health and symptoms regularly. You should also avoid travelling or visiting high-risk areas and stay safe at home, observing Diwali precautions.
Do: Support Local and Small Businesses
Diwali is a festival of prosperity, but it can also be a festival of opportunity, especially for the local and small businesses that have been affected by the pandemic and the lockdown. Therefore, it is advisable to support local and small businesses by buying their products and services, such as diyas, candles, lanterns, sweets, clothes, and handicrafts.
You can also promote and recommend them to your friends and family and help them grow and thrive. You can also donate or volunteer for the NGOs and charities that are working for the welfare of the needy and the underprivileged.
Don’t: Forget the True Essence and Spirit of Diwali
Diwali is a festival of lights, but it can also be a festival of darkness, especially if we forget the true essence and spirit of Diwali. Therefore, it is important to remember and reflect on the significance and values of Diwali, such as the victory of good over evil, the triumph of light over darkness, and the importance of knowledge over ignorance.
You should also practice and spread the virtues of honesty, humility, generosity, and compassion and make this Diwali a meaningful and memorable one.
Conclusion
Diwali is a festival of happiness, prosperity, and gratitude. It is also a festival of responsibility, awareness, and care. By following these dos and don’ts, you can celebrate Diwali brightly and safely, without harming yourself, others, or the environment. You can also make this Diwali more meaningful and memorable by spreading love, joy, and kindness to everyone around you. Happy Diwali!
