Over 600 medical personnel to be working during New Year's break - Ambulance service in Almaty confirms
Safety Measures for New Year's Eve Pyrotechnics and First Aid for Thermal Burns
As the holiday season approaches, it's important to ensure safety when using pyrotechnics during New Year's Eve celebrations. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Using Pyrotechnics Safely
- Use fireworks only in clear, open areas away from people, buildings, vehicles, dry grass, and flammable materials.
- Never allow young children to handle or ignite fireworks; older children should be supervised closely.
- Do not use fireworks indoors or hold them in your hands when lighting.
- Wear protective eyewear and avoid loose or bulky clothing.
- Light only one firework at a time and keep a safe distance immediately after ignition.
- Never point, throw, or aim fireworks at others.
- Keep water buckets, sand, or fire extinguishers nearby to extinguish malfunctioning or spent fireworks.
- Never try to relight fireworks that fail to ignite.
- Only purchase fireworks from licensed, reputable retailers and avoid illegal fireworks.
- Avoid consumption of alcohol or drugs when handling fireworks.
First Aid for Thermal Burns
In case of pyrotechnic exposure, prompt first aid is crucial. Here's what to do:
- Immediately cool the burn area under running cool (not cold) water for 10–20 minutes to reduce pain and tissue damage.
- Avoid applying ice directly to the burn as it may cause further tissue injury.
- Remove any constricting items such as jewelry or tight clothing from the burned area before swelling begins.
- Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick dressing or cloth to protect from infection.
- Do not apply creams, ointments, or greasy substances unless instructed by a medical professional.
- Seek prompt medical attention depending on burn severity—especially if large, deep, or on the face, hands, or major joints.
Recommendations from Dr. Birzhan Ospanov, Chief Doctor of Almaty's Emergency Medical Aid Station
Dr. Ospanov, the main doctor of Almaty's emergency medical aid station, emphasized the importance of adhering to pyrotechnic handling protocols to prevent accidents. In case of injuries, especially thermal burns, he advised following the above first aid steps immediately. He also recommended having emergency medical services on standby during public firework events.
Dr. Ospanov urged the public to be aware of the risks associated with sparklers and unauthorized pyrotechnics, emphasizing that sparklers can cause severe burns despite appearing harmless. He also promoted community awareness campaigns around New Year's Eve to reduce firework-related injuries.
Over 600 medical staff will be on duty during the New Year holidays, with 65 specialized pediatric teams available in the city. The chief doctor emphasized the importance of seeking immediate medical help for burns and reading instructions carefully before using pyrotechnics. He suggested covering a burn with a clean cloth or tissue before help arrives.
In addition, Dr. Ospanov recommended avoiding the use of pyrotechnics and warned about the potential dangers of using pyrotechnic devices. He also noted that 'Sпасатель' or 'Бепантен' cream can be used to reduce pain from severe burns, but advised against wetting or treating a burn with any substances.
Sources: [1] Firework Safety Guidelines [2] National Fire Protection Association - Fireworks Safety [5] Consumer Product Safety Commission - Fireworks Safety
