DOH chief to hospitals: Be on alert for fireworks injuries

Exploded firecrackers cover a stretch of Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City after a night’s frenzy of fireworks to greet the New Year in 2017. (Photo by JOAN BONDOC / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines — Health Secretary Francisco Duque III on Wednesday called on hospitals to be alert and prepared in anticipation of fireworks injuries during the holiday season.

“Our hospitals should be ready for any eventualities during this holiday celebration when alcohol and fireworks sometimes become the center of merriment,” Duque said.

Duque added that the “best way to prevent injuries is through community fireworks display.”

The DOH will conduct surveillance on fireworks-related injuries from Dec. 21, 2018 to Feb. 5, 2019.

About 50 hospitals nationwide will submit their reports on the fireworks-related injuries, according to the DOH.

Duque also advised parents to prohibit their children between age 10 and 14 from using firecrackers.

“We are reiterating our advice to parents and caregivers not to allow children to use any kind of firecrackers, especially piccolo, which is the most common cause of injuries among children aged between 10 and 14 years old,” Duque said.

He also advised people to visit the nearest hospital or health facility in case of injuries caused by fireworks.

“For any fireworks-related injuries, please consult the nearest health facility for proper wound treatment and management to avoid tetanus,” Duque concluded.

According to the DOH, in 2017 there were 463 cases of fireworks-related injuries of children aged 10 to 14.

The DOH most the casualtiesd were children and teenagers because of their “aggressive behavior.”

It also added that among the most dangerous fireworks are piccolo, kwitis, luces and fountain. /atm