fireworks Injuries Reported Across Bicol Region Over New Year’s
A recent report from the Department of Health (DOH) highlights the dangers of mishandling fireworks during the New Year celebrations. Between December 21st and 31st, 2024, a total of 36 individuals across Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Albay, and Naga City suffered injuries from fireworks.
The victims sought treatment at various hospitals in the region, including the Bicol Medical Center, Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center, Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital, Bikol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center, Naga City Hospital, and Josefina Belmonte Duran Albay Provincial Hospital.
A range of fireworks were implicated in the incidents, including kwitis (mini rockets), five-star firecrackers, “bawang,” sparklers, whistle bombs, and homemade “boga” (improvised cannons).
Thankfully, the majority of the injured—34 individuals—were able to return home after receiving medical attention. Two victims required further hospitalization. The youngest victim was just three years old, while the oldest was 67. Significantly, the 67-year-old was injured while using a five-star firecracker. Out of the total, 31 were male, and 5 were female.
(PNA)
(infographic courtesy of DOH-5)
Archyde interview: Fireworks Safety in the Bicol Region
A Conversation with Dr.Maria Santos, Head of Emergency Medicine at Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center
Editor: Dr.Santos, thank you for joining us today. The recent DOH report on fireworks-related injuries in the Bicol region is concerning. Can you share your insights on the situation?
**Dr. Santos:** Absolutely. As a physician on the front lines, we see firsthand the devastating consequences of fireworks misuse. This recent holiday season, we treated a number of patients with burns, eye injuries, and even hand amputations – all related to fireworks.
**Editor:** What types of fireworks were most frequently involved?
**Dr. Santos:** A variety of fireworks were implicated, but “boga” – homemade explosives – seemed particularly problematic.We also saw several cases related to five-star firecrackers,kwitis,and even sparklers,which many people perceive as harmless.
**Editor:** Are there specific demographics more prone to injury?
**Dr. Santos:** The youngest victim was only three years old, highlighting the need for adult supervision. Men, though, constituted the majority of those injured – 31 out of 36 cases. This suggests that men might be overrepresented in risky fireworks handling.
**Editor:** What steps can be taken to prevent future injuries?
**Dr. Santos:** We need a multi-faceted approach. Public awareness campaigns emphasizing safe fireworks handling are crucial. Stricter regulations on the sale and use of dangerous fireworks like “boga” are also necessary.Ultimately, the safest option is to leave fireworks displays to professionals.
**Editor:** Shoudl there be a complete ban on consumer fireworks? This is a complex question with strong opinions on both sides. What are your thoughts?
**Dr. santos:** This is certainly a debate worth having. While some argue that fireworks are a cherished tradition, I firmly believe that public safety should be paramount. It’s time to have a serious conversation about whether the inherent risks of consumer fireworks outweigh their perceived cultural value.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights,Dr. Santos. We hope your message resonates with our readers and leads to a safer and happier New Year’s celebration for everyone.
## Archyde exclusive: Fireworks Leave Trail of Injuries in Bicol Region
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to Archyde News. This New Year’s party brought joy to many, but also a surge in fireworks-related injuries across the Bicol Region. To shed light on this issue, we are joined by Dr. [Alex Reed Name], a leading expert in trauma care at [Hospital Name]. Thank you for joining us, Dr. [Alex Reed name].
**Dr.[Alex Reed Name]:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** As you know, the Department of health reported 36 fireworks-related injuries in Bicol between December 21st and 31st. This is a significant number. What are your initial thoughts on these statistics? [[1](https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1240765)]
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** Unfortunatly, these numbers are not surprising.Every year, we see a spike in injuries during New Year’s Eve, and it underscores the very real dangers of mishandling fireworks. It’s critically important to remember that these are not toys, they are explosives.
**Interviewer:** The DOH report indicates that a wide variety of fireworks caused these injuries,including kwitis,five-star firecrackers,and even homemade “boga.” What are some of the most common types of injuries you see?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** We see burns, blast injuries to the hands and face, and eye injuries. We also see injuries from flying debris and from devices that malfunction.
**Interviewer:** It’s concerning that there were injuries ranging from a three-year-old child to a 67-year-old adult. What message would you like to convey to the public, especially to parents and children?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** Firstly, fireworks are far too dangerous to be handled by children, and adults should exercise extreme caution. It’s essential to follow safety guidelines, light fireworks one at a time, and keep a safe distance.
Secondly,consider alternatives to traditional fireworks displays. There are many safe and enjoyable ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve without risking serious injury.
**Interviewer:** what steps can be taken to prevent these costly injuries in the future?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** I believe a multi-pronged approach is needed. This includes stronger regulations on the sale and use of fireworks, public awareness campaigns emphasizing safety, and promoting choice celebrations.
**Interviewer:** Dr. [Alex Reed Name], thank you for your valuable insights. We hope this interview helps raise awareness about the importance of firework safety.
