Specialists warn playing with fireworks is dangerous

Abu Dhabi: Educators and specialists are warning children and parents about the dangers of playing with fireworks, and are calling on authorities to monitor their sale.

"All people in the vicinity of fireworks can be at risk," a specialist said.

"The danger of fireworks is at two levels: first from burns caused by the inflammable material used to make them, which can even lead to death in some cases. Second, the sudden loud noises that might frighten children, even causing panic and psychological trauma, apart from harming their ears," said Dr Abdul Latif Al Azazi, an expert in human development and family affairs.

"In addition, the smoke from burnt fireworks leads to environmental pollution," he added. Dr Al Azazi called on parents to monitor their children and make sure they choose games that are safe.

Dr. Masr Al Amiri, secretary general of the national committee for education, science and culture at the Ministry of Education, said: "In my experience with fireworks I have noticed that the light, heat and ashes all can be harmful. The skin and eyes can be affected.

"The chemical odour emanating from burnt fireworks is harmful to health. And, of course, if they are not stored properly, fireworks may lead to serious fire accidents."

Adnan Abbas, academic adviser at Al Nahda National School, warned of the significant risks posed by fireworks and called for cooperation between parents and schools.

"Schools play a key role in matters related to the child's safety and should provide guidance on the general risks that surround them through an integrated curriculum. We at the school distribute brochures on the risks fireworks pose in all their aspects, whether physical or psychological, in addition to the noise and inconvenience they may cause in the surrounding area," Abbas said.

Dr. Maha Abdul Halim, a psychologist, said, "Fireworks might cause burns, eye infection or even rupture of the eyelid or conjunctiva (the thin, delicate membrane that covers the inside of the eyelid and the cornea) due to the entry of a foreign body in the eye, which might impact the retina or cause total loss of eyesight."

She called for authorities to enact laws to deter the sale and use of fireworks.

Nahed, a parent, told Gulf News: "I do not allow my children to play with firecrackers after kids in the neighbourhood got severely burnt last year while bursting firecrackers. This is a serious matter that families should monitor."

Ahmad, another parent, said: "Reducing the prevalence of fireworks requires teamwork. Some sellers are not aware that some of the fireworks they are selling are illegal."

An 11-year-old boy, also named Ahmad, told Gulf News: "I like to play with fireworks. But if they are bad for children, then why are they sold in the shops?"