Firecracker accidents reduced due to AVIVA NDB safety campaign

Lighting crackers during Avurudu celebrations has been an integral part of the festivities and the custom has regrettably marred lives, through careless use, often blinding or maiming young children as well as adults. This year too AVIVA NDB Insurance launched a campaign to capture the attention of young families warning them of the dangers, and as a result there was only one cracker-related accident reported, according to news reports quoting the National Hospital Director, Dr. Hector Weerasinghe.

This shows the success of the media campaign to raise awareness among the public on preventing firecracker accidents.

Urging everyone to light crackers with greater care, the message this year was developed with the objective of encouraging the public to be more safety conscious without dampening the festive spirit.

The Company has focused on firecracker safety since 1992 and consistent safety messages during festive seasons over the years have effectively reduced the number of injuries resulting from firecrackers to near zero.

Safety is the Company's primary Corporate Responsibility platform and the promotion of cracker safety has significantly contributed to reducing accidents, not only during Avurudu celebrations but also during the year-end festivities.

Some of the campaigns succeeded in winning prestigious advertising awards as well.

'Our endeavour to contribute meaningfully to our community has made a difference to the nation and we are happy to note that our sustained communication strategy has had positive results in reducing injuries from firecrackers during New Year celebrations', said Amal Perera, AGM, Marketing.