Nizhny Novgorod medics reminded which New Year's activities lead to hospitalization.

      28 December 2025 10:12 Society

      During the New Year holidays the risk of sustaining injuries increases significantly, doctors reminded. Specialists at the Nizhny Novgorod Ambulance Station urge citizens to be especially careful and to observe safety measures to avoid hospitalizations.

      The chief physician of the Nizhny Novgorod Ambulance Station, Roman Pegov, emphasizes that setting off fireworks is one of the most injury-prone New Year traditions. He strongly recommends not entrusting this task to people who are drunk and not allowing children to handle pyrotechnics without adult supervision. When buying fireworks, it is important to check for a certificate and license confirming their quality and safety. Low-quality products may not only fail to work but also explode in one’s hands, which can lead to serious injuries.

      If a firework fails to go off, do not try to determine the cause yourself. It is better to wait for some time. If a burn occurs, immediately apply a cold compress to the injured area — snow, ice, or cold water. Keep cold compresses on for at least 15 minutes. For extensive burns or burns to the face, seek medical attention immediately.

      If fire gets on clothing made of synthetic material, do not try to tear it off so as not to damage the skin. Until a doctor examines the injury, it is not recommended to apply ointments; it is sufficient to cover the area with a sterile wipe or bandage.

      Doctors also remind about the need to provide first aid if a snowball hits the eye. Immediately apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and see an ophthalmologist for further examination. If you notice blurred vision, glare, rainbow spots, or other symptoms of an eye injury, do not delay a visit to the doctor.

      Sledding and tubing can also lead to serious injuries, including spinal fractures. The main symptom of such a fracture is difficulty breathing, which occurs due to an improper landing. A fracture of the lower thoracic vertebrae may cause pain between the shoulder blades, which may not appear immediately. The sooner medical care is provided, the higher the chances of a successful recovery.

      Tubing also requires adherence to safety rules. It is recommended to use specially prepared tracks, avoid collisions, and observe the order of descent. Do not ride tubing with another person, as this increases the risk of falls and injuries.

      In the event of a head injury, assess the symptoms. If a person has lost consciousness, experiences nausea, vomiting, lethargy, drowsiness, or a severe headache, an ambulance should be called immediately. A ligament sprain will cause swelling; in that case, lay the injured person down, apply a cross-shaped bandage and a cold compress. For a dislocated joint, immobilize the limb, apply a cold compress, put on a pressure bandage and seek medical help. For a fracture, immobilize the limb with rolls made from blankets or towels and wait for the doctor to arrive. Do not touch open fractures — cover them with a clean cloth and wait for professional help.

      Earlier, the schedule of Nizhny Novgorod hospitals’ operations during the New Year holidays was published. Traumatology units at polyclinics will continue to operate around the clock during the holidays and will accept patients of all ages.

      NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay informed about the main events, exclusive materials and urgent information.

      Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". A hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is required when reprinting. This resource may contain 18+ materials.