'Avoid dangerous Avurudu games'

by Carol Aloysius

National Hospital Director Dr. Anil Jasinghe warned the public to refrain from engaging in dangerous Avurudu games and lighting substandard fire crackers to avoid injuring themselves.

"Most injuries sustained by people during the New Year were due to lighting substandard firecrackers that don't comply with the rules of the Firecrackers Ordinance, or holders crackers in the hand and lighting them", he said. On New Year games, he cited climbing the grease pole as one of the commonest causes for injuries.

"This is because of the height of the pole and the excessive use of grease. Placing pillows below the pole will cushion the impact of any fall.

Also, less grease should be applied on the pole to avoid slipping down too fast", he said. Cycling without proper brakes and on main roads was another common cause for injuries during this season, he noted.

"Organisers of such sports should set up health and safety committees involving nearby hospital authorities and NGOs to ensure the safety of the participants.

No one with high blood pressure and cardiac problems should take part in a strenuous sporting event.", he reiterated.

Avurudu games continue for about two/three weeks after the celebrations.