As Purim draws near rescue services are issuing staunch
warnings to parents not to allow their children to possess
firecrackers and other items that pose a safety hazard.
Every year Magen David Adom and other emergency organizations
handle dozens of frightful cases: serious burns and the loss
of fingers and hands of children whose firecrackers exploded
in their hands. In addition many adults suffer anxiety
attacks due to the many explosive sounds in the streets.
Hatzoloh notes that many parents are simply unaware of the
danger. "Unfortunately," says Hatzoloh Yisroel Chairman Rabbi
Dovid Greenwald, "every year we encounter hundreds of
emergencies around the country as a result of dangerous
firecrackers. If we can prevent a portion of these frightful
cases, or even save the loss of one hand, may this be our
reward."
Magen David Adom and other rescue services are asking parents
and teachers to caution students about the inherent danger
and not to permit them to use firecrackers.
According to the Standards Institute, fireworks must be sold
in packages marked with instructions and warnings. Caps
should only be used in cap guns equipped with a red safety
cap on the barrel and proper markings as required by law, and
caps should not be kept in pockets or fired in proximity to
ears or eyes.
Magen David Adom also warns that certain costumes and
accessories have various hidden dangers and parents must be
vigilant in safeguarding their children. Costumes made of non-
flammable materials that meet safety standards are
recommended and children in costume should be especially
warned in advance to stay clear of sources of heat and
fire.
If a costume catches fire chas vesholom, the victim
should lie down on the ground and roll in dirt or sand, or
the fire should be extinguished with large quantities of
water or smothered with a wet blanket. In the event of burns,
charred clothing should be removed and no oily ointments or
creams should be applied; instead the site of the burn should
be cooled with water and emergency aid should be sought.
