75 Cases of Fireworks-Related Injuries Were Recorded Ahead of New Year’s Eve, DOH Says
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Department of Health recorded 75 cases of fireworks-related injuries ahead of New Year’s Eve.
On Wednesday (December 27, 2023), the Health Department reported that the injured individuals ranged from six to 55 years old, with the majority being males. Out of the total cases, 23 were recorded between December 26 and the morning of December 27, all from activities in homes or on the streets.
Unfortunately, among the new cases were two amputations resulting from the use of illegal “pla-pla,” lit by male teenagers who unfortunately lost their fingers. The incident brings the total number of amputations due to fireworks to six for this holiday season alone.
The DOH took a moment to remind the public that fireworks, though visually appealing, are not toys and can be dangerous to handle.
“Ang paputok ay hindi laruan. Maganda silang tingnan, ngunit nakamamatay na hawakan,” said DOH.
Furthermore, the health department encouraged parents to gift their children complete hands and fingers and urged fathers and older brothers to set an example for the younger members of their families.
The agency’s plea emphasized the importance of safety during the festive season.
“Dapat magregalo ng kumpletong mga kamay at daliri sa kanilang mga anak ang bawat magulang. Ang mga ama at kuya ay dapat maging halimbawa para sa mga kabataang lalaki sa kanilang pamilya,” the agency said.
In the Philippines, welcoming the New Year is traditionally marked by noisemakers and fireworks, believed to drive away evil spirits.
This year’s New Year celebrations are expected to increase as people aim to make up for lost time due to COVID-19-related restrictions over the past three to four years.
However, the Interior Department urged local authorities to promote community fireworks displays and discourage individuals from lighting fireworks at home due to the increasing number of fireworks-related injuries.
READ ALSO: New Year 2023: List of Firecrackers Prohibited, Allowed in Fireworks Display Areas