Fireworks injuries spike among teens this Christmas, DOH reports

National

THE sparkle of the season left a mark on the young.

Nineteen of the 28 fireworks-related injury victims reported by the Department of Health from Dec. 21 were under 20 years old.

In its latest Fireworks-Related Injury Surveillance Report, the DOH said eight new cases were logged as of 4 a.m. on Dec. 25. From Dec. 21 to early Christmas Day, its 62 sentinel hospitals recorded a total of 28 injuries, which is 50 percent lower than the 56 cases reported during the same period last year.

Of the total cases, 19 victims were aged 19 and below, while nine were 20 years old or older. The report also noted that most injuries were caused by firecrackers such as five star, boga, and triangle.

The DOH urged those injured to wash affected areas with clean, running water and seek medical attention at the nearest hospital or health center.

Victims were advised to request tetanus shots and call 911 for immediate assistance.

To prevent accidents, the DOH previously encouraged local government units to organize community fireworks displays, allowing trained professionals to handle pyrotechnics safely instead of individuals using fireworks at home.

With New Year celebrations just days away, the Philippine National Police has intensified operations against the sale of illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices. Acting PNP Chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. instructed police officers to conduct intelligence gathering, regular inspections, and surprise checks of stalls, warehouses, and storage areas for prohibited fireworks.

He emphasized that violators of Republic Act No. 7183, also known as the Firecracker Law, would face legal action. “Since the start of the Christmas season, we have already reminded the public against illegal firecrackers and our strict enforcement,” Nartatez said in a Philstar report. He added that police commanders would face administrative sanctions if they fail to implement the orders.(MyTVCebu)