Public hospitals across Region 1 have been placed on Code White starting Friday, December 20, 2024 to prepare for potential firecracker-related injuries during the holiday season.

At the Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) in Dagupan City, the emergency room has been equipped with medicines, surgical tools, and other essential supplies to handle such cases.

"When it comes to the R1MC hospital, we are ready. Sa equipment, supplies handa na lahat," Dr. Joseph Fama, Assistant Manager for Administration at R1MC, said.

Last year, the region recorded 230 firecracker-related injuries between December 21, 2023 and January 6, 2024.

No incident has been reported, so far, according to the Center for Health Development (CHD) in Ilocos.

"Tuloy-tuloy ang ating pagmo-monitor sa ganitong mga kaso, but historically po talaga kapag mas lumalapit ang Pasko or lumalapit ang Bagong Taon doon tayo nagkakaroon ng injury," Dr. Rheuel Bobis, spokesperson for CHD-1, said.

"Ngayon ang ginagawa natin is increase awareness, increase information and education campaign para wala pa man ang Pasko at Bagong Taon, alam na ng ating mga kababayan," Bobis added.

Health authorities are aiming to maintain zero firecracker-related injuries this holiday season.

They urged the public to use alternative noise-makers instead of firecrackers.

In case of firecracker injuries, they reminded everyone to avoid home remedies and seek immediate medical attention to prevent infections.