Eid al-Adha is a season of celebration, but it also brings a unique set of safety challenges for families. Dr. Mervat El-Sayed, Director of the African Center for Women’s Health Services in Alexandria and an Emergency Medicine Consultant, has issued a comprehensive guide to help mothers and children navigate the holiday safely.
Dr. El-Sayed highlights that ER departments often see a spike in preventable injuries during Eid, ranging from minor burns to severe cuts. She identifies children as the highest-risk group, particularly due to their natural curiosity. “Children must be kept away from slaughter areas and sharp tools,” she warns, adding that exposure to animal waste can lead to bacterial infections, while fireworks pose a devastating risk to eyes and respiratory health.
For the “Queens of the Kitchen,” the risks are equally high. With the increased workload of preparing Eid feasts, housewives are more prone to cuts from knives, burns from grills or hot oils, and slips on kitchen floors. Dr. El-Sayed advises keeping kitchen surfaces dry, avoiding the over-usage of electrical sockets, and staying fully focused on cooking tasks—reminding mothers to keep mobile phones away during high-risk kitchen activities.
To ensure a stress-free holiday, the Center recommends a proactive approach: maintain constant supervision over children, store all sharp implements in secure locations, and ensure a fully stocked first aid kit is accessible. By following these professional safety measures, families can ensure that the joy of Eid remains uninterrupted by medical emergencies.
