Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (NSE: STARHEALTH, BSE: 543412) issued a press release on 10 November 2026 from Chennai, warning families to adopt a safety‑first approach during Diwali. The insurer’s internal claims analysis shows that burn‑related insurance claims in the fiscal year 2026 third quarter (October–December), which coincides with the Diwali festival, were 28% above the average of the other three quarters, whereas in FY25 the same quarter recorded a 19% increase over its quarterly average, indicating a consistent seasonal surge.
Chief Operating Officer Amitabh Jain stated that the pattern is clear and that these injuries are largely preventable, emphasizing that simple precautions can keep celebrations joyful and safe. To help mitigate risk, Star Health outlined six firecracker safety measures: (1) burst crackers only in open spaces while maintaining a safe distance from buildings, vehicles, electrical wires and flammable materials, and never hold crackers, anars, bombs or rockets in the hand while lighting; (2) wear close‑fitting cotton clothing and sturdy closed footwear, avoiding loose, flowing or synthetic garments that can catch fire; (3) ensure children are always supervised by adults and keep them away from unexploded or discarded fireworks; (4) never attempt to relight a dud cracker, instead douse it with water or sand before disposal; (5) if a burn occurs, cool the affected area under running water for 10 to 20 minutes and avoid applying ice, toothpaste, oil, butter, turmeric or any home remedies; and (6) seek urgent medical attention for serious burns involving the face, eyes, hands, feet, joints or extensive body areas, and do not burst blisters or remove clothing stuck to the burn.
The guidance aligns with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) firecracker handling guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, available at https://dghs.mohfw.gov.in/uploads/assets/T3qn4jpT8Aa40YBdtBXPBWYkKH4vwktdWleMpQKI.pdf.
Star Health, which commenced operations in 2006 as India’s first standalone health insurer, offers health, personal accident and travel insurance, with specialised products for cancer, diabetes, cardiac illnesses, senior citizens, women and children. The company has settled over 1 crore claims, operates through a multi‑channel distribution network of more than 900 offices, 8.7 lakh agents and robust bancassurance partnerships, and is supported by a network of over 17,000 hospitals and a workforce of approximately 18,500 employees. Policyholders can obtain guidance through the toll‑free number 7200 222 333 (press 1 for Home Healthcare, press 2 for planned hospitalisation) and non‑policyholders can access free 24/7 virtual OPD consultations via the Star Health mobile app. For further information, visit www.starhealth.in.