Firecracker-related injuries down so far, but DOH still on alert

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Health on Saturday, December 27, reported a decrease in fireworks-related injuries over Christmas, compared to last year’s celebrations.

The agency, in a press release, said there were 113 cases reported this year, 86 cases – or 43% – less from the same period last year.

The agency said the decrease has led to the agency’s intensifying its campaign to stop the use of firecrackers in over New Year celebrations. The DOH was also careful to stress that the trend is still “unacceptable.”

As with previous years, most of the injured come from the National Capital Region (NCR), particularly in the cities of Manila, Pasig, Las Pinas, and Pasay. Outside the metropolis, cases come from Regions 10, 11 and 6.

Under 10 years old

The DOH said that in 96 of the cases, the injured were males aged between 3 and 68 years old, and that it is disheartening that 35% of the case were under 10 years old. A majority of the cases – 67% – were caused by the “very dangerous” and illegal firecracker piccolo.

Eighty-seven (87) of the cases were blast wounds. Six of the injured required amputation, while 16 sustained eye injuries.

“Parents and adults are once again being called to be even more vigilant in protecting children from using and being endangered by firecrackers,” the agency said. “Children should be kept away from firecrackers, prevented from buying them, and sternly educated on their dangers.”

The agency has already reported a case of firework ingestion, involving a 5-year-old boy who mistook the firework luces for candy.

White alert

A number of government agencies have committed support to the DOH’s campaign against the use of fireworks, including the Department of Transportation and Communication, Manila International Airport Authority, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine National Railways, Light Railway Transit Authority, and the Philippine Information Agency.

The DOH is also calling on mayors and governors to join the campaign.

All health personnel in DOH offices, hospitals and medical centers are on Code White alert for the duration of the holiday season, on standby to provide assistance to victims of firecrackers.

The agency also reminds the families of victims that the injured need immediate care. – Rappler.com