Diwali, also known as the ‘Festival of Lights’, is the Hindu New Year festival and is celebrated every year. This year Diwali takes place on Thursday 31 October until Friday 1 November, and with many people celebrating, we have put together some safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Fire safety
Diwali sees an increase of oil lamps and candles used around the home, therefore it’s important to keep fire safe.
- Light candles out of reach from children and pets. Also teach children to stay away from open flames.
- If you are decorating your home, make sure all decorations are away from open flames, ovens, microwaves and radiators.
- Ensure Diya lamps are placed securely and in suitable holders. Also ensure tealights are on heat-resistant surfaces.
- Keep open flames away from soft furnishings, such as curtains and throws.
- Never leave candles unattended.
- Make sure to keep all exits clear of decorations.
- Make sure all smoke alarms are working.
Cooking family feasts and tasty treats
- Ensure your cooker and hob are always kept clear when not in use.
- Don’t leave pans unattended.
- Don’t leave children unattended in the kitchen.
- Don’t fill a pan with more than one third of oil and if it starts to smoke, turn off the heat and leave it to cool.
- Never pour water over hot oil.
Firework safety
- Fireworks must be used outside and by a responsible adult.
- Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark and keep them in a closed box.
- Use fireworks one at a time.
- Read and follow the instructions for each firework.
- Place the firework on a stable surface.
- Keep naked flames away from fireworks.
- Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
- Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in a bucket of water for several hours. Then place them in a plastic bag when cooled and place them in a black bin.
- Do not put fireworks in your pocket.
- Never throw fireworks.
- Keep pets inside.
- Ensure children are a safe distance away from the fireworks.
- If you are using sparklers, make sure to wear gloves and place them in a bucket of water when finished.