The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a significant number of injuries linked to firecrackers just a day before the country's major New Year celebrations. The latest data reveals a concerning trend, prompting renewed calls for public caution.
DOH Data Shows Decline, But Youth Remain Most Affected
According to the official monitoring report from the Department of Health, a total of 140 individuals sustained fireworks-related injuries. This data was collected from 62 sentinel hospitals across the country during the period from December 21 up to 4 a.m. on December 30.
While the figure is alarming, it represents a 23 percent decrease compared to the same timeframe in 2024, when 182 cases were recorded. This suggests that ongoing safety campaigns may be having a positive impact, though the risk remains high.
A deeply worrying detail from the report is the age distribution of the victims. The DOH found that the vast majority, 95 cases or 68 percent, involved individuals aged 19 years old and below. The remaining 45 cases, accounting for 32 percent, were adults aged 20 and above.
Primary Causes and Immediate First Aid Instructions
The health department identified the most common culprits behind these injuries. The majority of cases were attributed to illegal 5-Star firecrackers, the homemade cannon-like "Boga," and unidentified firecrackers.
In light of the incidents, the DOH urgently reiterated proper first aid procedures for fireworks-related wounds:
- Immediately wash the affected area with soap and clean water.
- Cover the injury with a sterilized gauze bandage.
- Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health center or hospital.
The department issued a stern warning to the public, emphasizing that no injury is too minor to ignore. "Do not ignore any burn or wound caused by fireworks, no matter how small, as it can worsen and cause infection," the DOH stated.
A Call for Continued Vigilance
As the nation prepares for the peak of New Year's Eve revelry, the latest statistics serve as a critical reminder. The decline in cases is a positive sign, but the high number of injuries, particularly among children and teenagers, underscores the persistent danger of fireworks.
The Department of Health continues to advocate for community fireworks displays supervised by professionals as the safest alternative. Public adherence to safety guidelines and immediate proper first aid remain the most effective tools in preventing serious complications from firecracker-related incidents during the holiday season.
