Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Updated : October 22, 2014 5:46 PM IST
Diwali, known as the festival of lights and sweets has turned into the festival of fireworks and crackers in recent times. Although it's fun to enjoy this festival with firecrackers, the pollution and negative effects on your health caused by the chemicals released into the environment is hazardous. Every individual -- especially children, pregnant women and old people -- are at an increased risk of suffering health complications due to the bursting of crackers. Here are some common reasons why you should opt for a cracker-free Diwali.
Noise pollution: The sound produced by numerous firecrackers lit at a single time causes a high decibel of noise, that not only damages the ear, but also increases one's heart beat. It may also result in temporary deafness in individuals exposed to loud and sudden noise. Apart from causing sleep problems and high blood pressure, the risk of heart attacks or permanent hearing impairment is also high.
Smoke in the air: In addition to causing sound pollution, firecrackers also pollute the air and environment. The atmosphere is filled with smoke and obnoxious smells from the chemicals that causes harmful effects to one's overall health. People suffering from lung and respiratory illness like asthma are at an increased risk of health complications especially during this time.
Burns or injuries: It is seen that there is an increase in the cases of burns or injuries caused due to unsafe practices employed while bursting the crackers. Especially, burns on the hands and legs are commonly seen in children and young individuals.
Air pollutants that don't go away easily: With hazardous chemicals present in the firecrackers being spread in the environment, there is an increased risk of skin problems mainly itching or rashes, eye infections, sinusitis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases) and headache. Apart from that, young kids and pregnant women might inhale the poisonous mix of chemicals and gases thereby increasing their risk of health problems. Hence, it is advised to wear face masks and abstain from using firecrackers during Diwali.
Stomach problems: When you lite firecrackers, the chemicals present in them gets onto your hands and body. Although, most people including kids wash their hands before eating anything, there might be minute traces of these harmful chemicals left, that might get into your stomach leading to indigestion and other digestive problems.
Apart from these, firecrackers also increase global warming, burn a hole in your pocket, scare innocent animals and add to garbage woes (already a big problem in India). So this Diwali, try to celebrate the festival in the eco-friendly manner by staying away from firecrackers. Happy Diwali!
Image Source: Getty Images
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