It’s that time of the year again, where colours will do the talking. With Holi just around the corner the excitement amongst children is palpable. Right from buying the latest type of pichkari in the market, to planning the best way to burst those water balloons, children wait with bated breath for this colourful festival. Apart from all the happiness it brings, Holi is also known to be one of the most dangerous festivals after Diwali. Did you know that the rate of accidents goes up dramatically during this time? Well, worry not; here are a few tips to keep your child safe this Holi::
1. Keep an eye on your child:
It is crucial that while your child is playing Holi, there is adult supervision at all times. More so, if there is a large drum or tub being used to supply water during the festival. Children being unsteady and head heavy are likely to fall in.
2. Non-toxic is the way to go:
As far as possible, try to use safe, non-toxic colours. You could even opt for natural colours. Because of the lack of chemicals, these colours are easier to wash off and will cause less harm to the child’s skin.
3. Ban water balloons:
They may be fun to play with, but when thrown at a person, their impact can cause injuries to the skin, eyes and ears.
4. Pichkaari etiquette:
Teach your child to use his/ her pichkaari away from other people’s faces, especially their eyes and ears.
5. Gel-based colors are better:
If you must use synthetic colours, gel-based colours are better than powder colours. Again they are softer on the skin, easy to wash off, and cannot be inhaled like powder colours.
6. Keep colors away from the mouth:
It is essential that you do not let your children put any colours in his/her mouth. Synthetic colours, powder or gel-based alike, contain a number of harmful chemicals, when ingested they could cause severe reactions such as vomiting and could also lead to poisoning.
7. Eyes are particularly vulnerable:
If the colours enter your child’s eye, wash the eye with plenty of water. Remember not to rub the eye. If your child experiences any change in vision, pain or excessive redness of the eyes, immediately take him/her to your doctor.
8. Clothes are important:
Make your child wear full-sleeved clothes and long pants to protect his/her sensitive skin.
9. Prepare them well:
Apply oil or cream all over the body to prevent the colours from sticking to the skin. Oil the child’s hair well before he/she goes to play with colours. This will help protect the skin and hair from the harmful effects of the colours.
10. Be ready for emergencies:
Keep a list of emergency contacts ready, including those of your paediatrician, closest hospital and ambulance service.
Holi is a time for celebration. All you need to do is keep these 10 things in mind before you send your child out to celebrate the festival of colours.