Less than a week before the New Year celebration, the Department of Health (DOH) reported 26 new cases of firecracker-related injuries, bringing the total to 69.
The latest data from the DOH showed that as of Thursday, Dec. 26, there were 69 cases of firecracker-related injuries. These data were gathered from 62 sentinel sites being monitored by the DOH.
The DOH noted that the latest number of injuries was lower compared to the 52 reported on the same day last year.
Of the 69 cases, 65 were male and four were female.
The DOH also highlighted that, of the 69 cases, 58 victims were aged 19 and below, while the remaining 11 cases involved individuals aged 20 and above.
Furthermore, the DOH reported that 51 cases (74 percent) were caused by the active use of firecrackers, while 59 cases (86 percent) were due to the use of illegal firecrackers, particularly “boga.”
With these recorded cases, the DOH reiterated its advice to the public not to use firecrackers, to report those who sell or use illegal firecrackers, and to avoid picking up or lighting firecrackers scattered on the streets.
The DOH also reminded the public to keep dangerous products, such as small firecrackers (watusi), out of reach of children, as they may be swallowed.
Since most firecracker victims are children, the DOH urged parents to supervise their children and other young people to prevent them from using firecrackers.
Instead of using firecrackers to welcome the New Year, the DOH encouraged the public to use alternative noisemakers, such as horns and pots, enjoy karaoke with family and friends, or watch community fireworks displays organized by local government units (LGUs).
The DOH also reminded the public to be prepared in case of firecracker-related injuries.