73 hurt in firecrackers, road mishaps during holiday season

Local

SEVENTY-THREE people in Central Visayas had a rough Christmas after suffering injuries from fireworks and road accidents.

The Department of Health-Central Visayas (DOH-7) reported 19 cases of fireworks-related injuries and 54 road traffic-related injuries.

The health agency said this is recorded between December 21 until Thursday, December 26, 2024, urging the public to prioritize safety as the holiday celebrations continue.

On Thursday, December 26, eight new fireworks-related injuries were recorded, bringing the total to 19 since the DOH began monitoring.

Illegal firecrackers such as PVC cannons (lantaka), 5-Star, and Piccolo were identified as the primary culprits.

DOH 7 called on communities to report those using or selling these banned items and advised against handling or relighting unexploded firecrackers found on streets.

In addition to fireworks incidents, traffic-related injuries accounted for 54 cases during the same period, with 13 new cases reported on December 26 by the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, the region's sentinel hospital for road traffic injuries.

To address this, the DOH encouraged motorists to check their vehicles using the "BLOW-BAG-SET" safety checklist, ensuring brakes, lights, oil, water, battery, accessories, gas, electrical systems, and tires are in good condition before travel.

To prevent further injuries, the DOH urged the public to celebrate safely by using alternatives to firecrackers, such as party horns (torotot), banging pots and pans, or singing karaoke with family and friends.

Community fireworks displays organized by local government units are encouraged, with viewers advised to maintain a safe distance.

Parents are also reminded to closely supervise children and keep harmful firecrackers or small items like watusi away from them.

The DOH recommended keeping a first aid kit ready for emergencies and advised the public to contact the emergency hotline #0711 if needed.

Officials stressed that vigilance and discipline are crucial to ensuring a safe and joyful holiday season.(MyTVCebu)