Diwali Crackers Safety Guide
Updated August 2026
The safety habits our own families follow in Sivakasi, written for households bursting crackers at home.
Before the evening starts
Store crackers in a closed box in a cool, dry place, far from the kitchen, candles and diyas. Open the box only when you are ready to light, and keep the rest of the stock well away from the lighting area.
- Choose a flat, open area away from vehicles, dry leaves and buildings
- Keep two buckets of water and a first-aid kit within arm's reach
- Wear cotton clothing, not loose or synthetic fabric
- Read the instructions printed on each box
While lighting
Light one item at a time using a long agarbatti, then step back immediately. Never hold a cracker in your hand while lighting it, and never lean over an item to light it.
Children should always have an adult beside them, even for sparklers — the tip of a burning sparkler is extremely hot and stays hot after it goes out.
Duds and clean-up
Never relight a cracker that failed. Soak it in water and leave it there. At the end of the evening, douse all spent items in water before disposing of them, and check the area for anything still smouldering.
Consideration for others
Avoid bursting crackers near hospitals, schools, places of worship and animal shelters. Keep pets indoors with the windows shut, and follow the noise limits and permitted hours set by your local authority.