The splendor of lights, sweets and new clothes are all a part of this festival of lights, Diwali. It brings with it indulgence in lighting diyas, decorating the home, designing rangolis and worshipping the Almighty. And of course,  firecrackers are a part of it too. However, keeping in mind global warming and environmental pollution, experts have started recommending lesser use of firecrackers. Fireworks do look great and add to the festivity but they can be harmful to the environment and us.  In fact, children love lighting crackers. However, they need to do this with precautions. MetroMela spoke with Stella Paul from Greenpeace India, an NGO working on environmental causes as she shares a few tips to ensure safety of children this Diwali.

1. Try celebrating Diwali in traditional style with earthen diyas, less crackers and only light.

2. Never let children, even teenagers, burn the crackers alone. Ensure they are accompanied by parents or an elder.

3. Encourage children to play with noise-less crackers and also with crackers that are handy to play with, such as 'Phuljhari'.

4. Ask your children to burn crackers either in the courtyard or a large terrace. Keep buckets of water nearby, in case sparks spread and cause minor injury. Also keep the courtyard or terrace clean and clear, without anything that catches fire fast.

5. While buying crackers, don't forget to buy a tube of Burnol as well.

6. Before they start burning crackers, check the children's shoes and see that their shoelaces are tied properly. If girl children are wearing flowing dresses, make sure the ends are tucked from behind. Also make sure their hair is tied properly.

Have a happy and safe Diwali!