Ahmedabad: As the festival of Diwali approaches, the Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA), Amdavad Municipal Corporation, and Ahmedabad Fire & Emergency Services have jointly issued a public advisory, emphasizing vital safety guidelines for celebrating with firecrackers.

The guidelines state:

• In case of fire emergencies, immediately call the Fire Brigade at 101.

• If firecrackers produce loud sounds, use cotton in the ears to prevent possible hearing damage.

• Always wear boots or sandals while bursting firecrackers.

• Children should never keep firecrackers in their pockets.

• Firecrackers should only be burst under adult supervision.

• Prefer eco-friendly firecrackers that produce less pollution.

• Keep flammable materials away from the area while bursting firecrackers.

• Always keep a bucket of water nearby when lighting crackers.

• Wear cotton clothing to avoid burns.

• Firecrackers should be burst only in open spaces.

• Do not attempt to re-light partially burned or malfunctioning firecrackers.

• Always have a first-aid kit nearby when bursting crackers.