Play it safe: docs’ word of caution before Holi

P K Mirashe,Western region chairperson of the MPCB,said that they have kept a tab on industries involved in manufacturing dyes and other chemicals. “We have issued circulars to promote the use of eco-friendly colours,” says Mirashe.

Dr C B Mhaske,Head of the Department of Skin at B J Medical College and Sassoon General hospital says that chemicals like copper sulphate,chromium iodide,lead oxide,mercury sulphite which are likely to be used in colours may cause severe allergic reactions of eyes and skin in susceptible individuals. It could lead to severe itching and burning sensation with appearance of skin rashes. In some rare cases,complications like blistering and secondary bacterial infection may occur.

Mhaske,president of the Pune branch of Indian Association of Dermatologists,has called for precautionary measures before exposure to chemical colours. “People who want to play with colour should use barrier creams or moisturisers,hair oils to minimise unwanted side effects,” says Dr D K Damle,Associate Professor at the Department of Skin,B J Medical College.

Dr Yashwant Tawade,Head of the Department of Skin at K E M hospital,said that complaints about chemical burns had decreased over the years as people were aware of the use of chemicals in colours.

Meanwhile complaints about balloons filled with water being thrown at motorists on the Pune-Mumbai highway have come in. Many balloons hit PMPML and State Transport buses when they were passing near a slum. People fear more such incidents on Monday,when Holi will be played in full swing. “Unless police take measures it could prove dangerous,” said D Pardeshi,a two-wheeler rider who was hit by a balloon on Saturday.

* Instructions on the colour packet should be read carefully. Some brands specify that the colour is for industrial use. Avoid them.

* If you examine the colour powder closely you may sometimes spot glass powder; avoid such colours.

* Try to smell the colour and see if it contains engine oil