First aid tips for firecracker injuries

The Department of Health (DOH) has always been relentless in reminding Filipinos to avoid using firecrackers in welcoming the New Year. Instead, it encouraged them to find alternative noisemakers. However, what if a person was injured because of a firecracker?

The DOH listed down simple first-aid tips to treat injuries due to firecrackers.

For injured or burnt skin:

• Don’t ignore burns and wounds caused by the fireworks no matter how minor;
• Wash the wound immediately with soap and clean water.
• Remove contaminated clothing (make sure it is washed properly before reuse).
• Cover the wound with sterilized gauze bandage.
• Go to the nearest health facility or hospital for medical consult. Get a tetanus vaccine as soon as possible.

For a fireworks-related eye injury:

• Immediately rinse the affected eye with clean, lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.
• Do not further irritate or scratch the affected eye.
• Find a clean cloth or gauze and cover the affected eye.
• Head immediately to the nearest Emergency Room

For ingestion of watusi, piccolo, or other types of fireworks:

• Do not force the victim to vomit.
• Feed the victim (child) 6 to 8 and (adult) 8 to 12 pieces of raw egg white.
• Wash skin with alkaline soap such as Perla if contaminated or exposed to watusi.
• Take the victim immediately to the nearest hospital for evaluation.

For chemical inhalation from fireworks:

• Keep the victim away from an area with a strong smell of fireworks contamination.
• Let the victim breathe fresh air.
• Keep the victim comfortable.
• Seek immediate medical attention.

READ: Firecracker injuries climb to 30 ahead of New Year—DOH

What are the examples of alternative devices that can be used by the public that are much safer than fireworks?

The DOH suggested to the public to use the following alternative noise-makers and light-making devices for New Year.

• Car horn
• Sound system
• Tambourine
• Pot lid
• Piggy bank
• Light sticks
• Christmas lights

"You can celebrate the New Year with family and friends by participating in fun and safer alternative activities such as going to Community Fireworks Displays," the DOH said.