With the theme, “ Sa Ingay Walang Sablay, sa Paputok Goodbye Kamay”, the Department of Health officially commences this year’s anti firecracker campaign. Together with the Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Education, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection and Eco Waste Coalition, the agency’s campaign encourages the public to avoid the use of firecrackers and make use of alternative ways in celebrating Christmas; and welcoming the New Year.  It also reminds all Filipinos to have fun yet be vigilant at the same time.

According to Health Secretary Janette P. Loreto-Garin, “For this year, instead of firecrackers, the public is encouraged to use safe merry-making instruments and alternative noise-makers such as ‘torotot’, car horns, or by playing loud music.  Also, the local government units (LGUs) are urged to foster community fireworks display.”  She also emphasized the earnest cooperation of the LGUs and the public to achieve zero casualty in welcoming 2016.

The Department of Health ensures that DOH retained hospitals and other public hospitals are prepared to attend to firecracker related injuries.  The Health Secretary reminded that in case of injury due to firecrackers, the wounds must be immediately washed with clean running water until visible dirt and gunpowder residues are removed; and that the patient must be immediately rushed to the nearest health facility for proper medical attention.

In her message, Garin concluded that “Serious injuries and amputation caused by firecracker explosions have life-changing consequences.  It is an extreme gamble on one’s future.  Every time a firecracker is ignited.  A person’s life is at risk, hence, let us all do our part”  She also added, “Hindi dapat laging nasa huli ang pagsisisi; sa ingay walang sablay, sa paputok goodbye kamay.”

In 2014, the DOH final report on the Fireworks-Related Injury Surveillance recorded zero death and 860 cases nationwide which is 16% lower compared to the 1,018 recorded in 2013.  Of the 860 reported injuries, 840 were due to fireworks, 13 from stray bullets and 7 were cases of firecarker ingestion.  Most injuries were caused by piccolo (32%), followed by kwitis (15%), unknown firecrackers (11%), luces (7%) and fountain (5%).