DOH logs 17 firework-related injuries ahead of New Year

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) reported on Monday that it has already recorded 17 firework-related injuries nationwide, one week before New Year.

According to the DOH in a statement,17 injuries were recorded from December 22 to 23 from 62 sentinel hospitals — hospitals designated to monitor and report health emergencies — being monitored by the department.

Of the cases, 16 are male ages 7 to 37 years old.

“Mas mataas ito kumpara noong 2023 na may 6 na kaso sa parehong panahon,” the DOH said.

(This is higher compared to 2023 with 6 cases during the same period.)

The DOH then reminded the public to avoid lighting any type of fireworks and instead opt for alternatives such as drums and horns to celebrate the New Year.

It also reiterated that the sale of firecrackers or fireworks to minors is illegal.

The department then urged the public to contact the National Emergency hotline at 911 and the DOH hotline at 1555, in cases of emergency.

READ: Gov’t agencies start fireworks monitoring