Could a Diwali Cracker Gun Be Blinding Children?

The alarming rise of eye injuries among children in India, particularly during the Diwali festival, has drawn significant attention due to the use of dangerous improvised firecracker devices known as "carbide guns." These devices, which have caused severe injuries and vision loss, highlight critical issues surrounding child safety, regulation, and the impact of social media on youth behaviour.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In recent weeks, hospitals across northern India have reported a surge in eye injuries linked to carbide guns, especially among children and young adults. The Indian government has responded by banning these dangerous devices in several states, and arrests of sellers have taken place. Despite these measures, the popularity of carbide guns continues, fuelled largely by social media trends that glamorise their use as firecrackers. In Bhopal alone, over 100 cases of eye injuries have been reported, with several requiring surgical intervention. This situation raises urgent concerns about child safety and the effectiveness of current regulations.

Key takeaways

• Carbide guns are linked to over 100 reported eye injuries in Bhopal, with many requiring surgery.
• Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube significantly influence the popularity of these devices among children.
• Regulations on calcium carbide exist but are poorly enforced, leading to widespread availability.

Timeline: how we got here

The issue of carbide guns has escalated rapidly, particularly around the Diwali festival in October 2023. Following a spike in injuries, the following key events have occurred:

• October 2023: Carbide guns become widely reported following Diwali celebrations, leading to an unprecedented number of eye injuries.
• Mid-October 2023: Hospitals in Bhopal and surrounding areas report over 100 cases of eye injuries from carbide guns.
• Late October 2023: Several Indian states, including Madhya Pradesh, impose a ban on carbide guns; arrests are made against sellers.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent reports indicate a troubling increase in eye injuries due to carbide guns, particularly among children, as the devices gained popularity through social media. The trend has prompted urgent calls for stricter regulations and enforcement.

What was already established

The use of calcium carbide in India has been regulated for years due to its hazardous nature. However, despite existing laws, the actual enforcement has been inconsistent, allowing harmful practices to persist.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The rise of dangerous products like carbide guns could have implications beyond India, potentially raising awareness about safety regulations for consumer products globally. Concerns about child safety resonate universally, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and better education regarding hazardous materials.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses, especially those involved in the safety and regulation sectors, this situation could lead to increased demand for safety products and services. Additionally, there may be a push for public campaigns aimed at educating families about the dangers of improvised devices.

Policy and regulation

This incident could lead to stronger policy initiatives not only in India but also in the UK and other countries regarding the import and sale of hazardous materials. It may spur discussions on child safety laws and the enforcement of existing regulations related to dangerous products.

Numbers that matter

• Over 100 cases of carbide gun-related injuries have been reported in Bhopal alone.
• At least 15 of these cases required surgical intervention.
• In Bihar, 170 cases have been reported, with 40 requiring surgery.
• Patients are predominantly children and young adults who have been influenced by social media.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Carbide gun: An improvised explosive device made using calcium carbide, often used as a firecracker.
• Calcium carbide: A chemical compound that, when it comes into contact with water, produces acetylene gas, which is highly flammable.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Immediate attention is required to enforce bans on carbide guns and ensure that sellers are prosecuted. Hospitals will continue to treat victims, and public awareness campaigns are necessary to educate families about the dangers of these devices.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Longer-term strategies should focus on improving regulations surrounding hazardous materials and creating educational programs for children and families regarding fire safety and the risks of using improvised devices.

Signals to watch

• Monitoring the number of reported injuries related to carbide guns.
• Updates on regulatory actions and enforcement by local authorities.
• Public reaction and involvement in advocacy for stricter safety laws.

Practical guidance

Do

• Educate children about the dangers of using improvised devices.
• Report any sales of carbide guns to local authorities.
• Encourage community discussions about safety regulations.

Don’t

• Don’t allow children to play with or purchase hazardous devices.
• Don’t underestimate the risks associated with seemingly harmless products.

Checklist

• Ensure children understand the dangers of firecrackers.
• Monitor local regulations regarding hazardous materials.
• Engage in community safety initiatives.
• Stay informed about product recalls and bans.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the current situation highlights significant public health concerns, there are several uncertainties that need to be addressed. The extent of injuries may be underreported, and the long-term effects of these injuries on victims remain unknown. Additionally, enforcement of existing regulations can be inconsistent, leaving the potential for further incidents if not addressed swiftly.

Bottom line

The spike in carbide gun-related injuries during Diwali underscores the urgent need for improved regulations and public education on the dangers of such devices. As children become increasingly influenced by social media trends, it is crucial for parents, communities, and governments to take a proactive stance in safeguarding youth from hazardous materials.

FAQs

What are carbide guns?

Carbide guns are improvised devices that use calcium carbide to create a loud explosion and fiery sparks, often marketed as firecrackers.

What injuries can be caused by carbide guns?

Injuries from carbide guns can range from mild chemical burns to severe corneal damage, potentially leading to temporary or permanent vision loss.

Why are carbide guns still available despite regulations?

Despite being regulated, carbide guns continue to be sold due to weak enforcement of existing laws and increased demand from social media influence.