Have a safe Holi and ensure everyone else does, too

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While slogans about a waterless Holi and eco-friendly celebrations is all very well, what we need is a safe Holi. We need the strictest penalties if there are water balloons thrown at people, especially commuters. Nab offenders if CCTV cameras capture them indulging in this vile act. Even if the balloons miss their target, the act of aiming at someone for a lark needs to be dealt with. Remember that people have lost lives, an eye or limbs because somebody believed festivals give them free rein to endanger the lives of others.

Even colour thrown at unprepared or unsuspecting people can result in accidents and is very dangerous. Restrict your playful activities to the day of the festival and have fun with other participants. Do not target unsuspecting commuters or pelt pedestrians with colour. Keep Holi fires safe too, away from cars in building compounds or any flammable material. Use all precautions near that fire.

Try to use safe colours and ones that wash away quickly. The colours are symbolic, use them wisely and let caution rule.

Even haring around on the roads/pavements armed with colour/water chasing those you are playing with is not advisable. There is a tendency to run on the roads, then, in that excitement, and that is very dangerous. Though roads may be emptier that day, they are certainly not devoid of vehicles, and that is something to watch
out for.

Water also makes grounds slick, especially tiled surfaces, so one needs to be wary when playing in building passages or the terrace, etc. Put the happy into Holi with a respectful celebration.