MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) reminds the public anew of preventing firecracker-related injuries as the number of victims of firecracker lighting has reached 19 since Saturday (Dec. 21).
This means that the DOH has failed to achieve its target for a zero-fireworks related injury for 2019.
The health department said the 19 victims, mostly male age 14 to 60, sustained burns and eye injuries and severe damage that needed to be amputated.
DOH spokesperson Usec. Eric Domingo has advised the public to just watch the community fireworks display instead.
The local government units (LGU), he said, usually have a fireworks display scheduled in the communities.
“Sa New Year pwede naman tayong mag- enjoy, mag- ingay […] Pwede namang mag- ingay at salubungin ang bagong taon nang hindi paputok ang gagamitin para ma- prevent natin iyong mga sakuna,” Domingo said.
The health official also mentioned alternative noise-makers to be used during the end-of-year festivities, such as drums, blowhorn, and even metal pots and pans.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) added the use of whistle as a noise-maker.
The health department hopes for a total ban of firecrackers in the country in the coming years. — (from the report of Aiko Miguel) /mbmf
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