DOH sees ‘downward' trend of firework-related injuries

The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday said it sees a “downward” trend of firework-related injuries from 2016 to 2021.

“From 2016 to 2022 we’ve continuously seen a downtrend of firework related injuries from a high of 677 in 2016 down to its lowest of 122 in 2021,” the DOH said in a statement.

The department then urged the public to continue practicing safer celebration of New Year by using alternative ways to create loud noises.

“This is a good indicator of practicing safer new years away from physical injuries and emergencies,” the DOH said.

“The DOH calls upon all stakeholders to help continue maintain this trend in the coming years and the nearing New Year to come, by employing alternative ways of creating loud noises such as through pots and pans, speakers, horns, and percussions among many others,” it added.

The Health department earlier said that all hospitals would be on high alert for individuals with injuries and emergencies that may occur during the New Year celebrations.

It said that it would monitor hospitals to ensure their readiness to attend to fireworks-related injuries and any emergencies as part of its "Iwas Paputok" campaign.

The department also called on the local government units and private sector to support the campaign to help reduce the number of fireworks-related injuries and deaths.—AOL, GMA Integrated News