The Department of Health (DOH) tallied on Friday a total of 101 firecracker related injuries from December 22 to 6:00 a.m. of December 27,2024. There are 32 new cases recorded, which is higher than the 26 cases recorded on December 26.
According to DOH data, from the 62 sentinel sites that they monitor, 80 of the cases or 79 percent were due to illegal firecrackers; 64 percent of which was due to active use of firecrackers. The health department noted ‘boga,’ five-star, and piccolo among the leading causes of injuries.
Eighty-two (82) out of 101 injured are aged 19 years old and below; 19 of the patients are 20 years old and above; 92 of the victims are male and nine are female.
“Don’t light firecrackers. The number of youth and minors using and becoming victims of fireworks remains high,” the DOH said.
The health agency continually reminds the public to avoid using firecrackers, and report to the authorities persons who are selling or using illegal fireworks.
DOH also warned the public against picking up discarded firecrackers, storing toxic materials such as gunpowder, and small firecrackers such as ‘watusi’ that can be swallowed by children.
The DOH promotes alternative noisemakers like party horns, cooking pans, or karaoke sessions with friends and relatives.
Fireworks displays held by local government units can also be enjoyed during the holiday season.
Ensuring a safety kit is also promoted by DOH, calling hotlines 911 or 1555 immediately in case of emergencies was also advised.
