CEBU CITY – Health authorities called for more vigilance after close to 100 firecracker and traffic-related injuries were reported this week in Central Visayas.
The Department of Health-Central Visayas (DOH-7) reported that eight firecracker-related injuries were recorded on Thursday, Dec. 26.
From Dec. 21 to 26, the DOH said that 19 persons were injured due to firecrackers and 54 others were hurt due to road accidents.
The number of injuries were based on the reports from the two sentinel and 17 non-sentinel hospitals in Central Visayas.
The DOH-7 urged the public to observe a safe Christmas and New Year celebration.
The agency reminded the public not to use prohibited and illegal firecrackers. It added that “lantaka” (PVC cannon), Five Star, and piccolo are the common causes of fireworks-related injuries.
The DOH-7 reiterated that it would be better to avoid using firecrackers during the revelries.
The public was advised to report people using illegal firecrackers to authorities.
The DOH-7 reminded motorists to observe precautionary measures when travelling such as Blow-Bag-Set – brakes, lights, oil, water, battery, accessories, gas/fuel, self, electrical, and tires.