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Celebrations during the recent holiday season in Western Visayas were marked by a significant decline in firecracker-related injuries. The Department of Health (DOH) recorded a total of 43 cases, a stark contrast to the 261 cases reported during the same period in the previous year.
Of the 43 cases, 34 involved individuals aged 19 and below, highlighting the vulnerability of younger populations to firecracker-related accidents. Men constituted the majority of the victims, with 39 cases compared to 4 female cases.
Alarmingly, 86 percent of these injuries stemmed from the use of illegal firecrackers, with the “boga” identified as the most common culprit.
Boga: A Major Concern
The boga, a dangerous improvised noisemaker, was responsible for a staggering 41 of the reported injuries. Other commonly involved firecrackers included kwitis and 5-star, each accounting for 17 cases. The prevalence of these illegal and often homemade fireworks underlines the ongoing challenge of enforcing safety regulations during festive seasons.
Iloilo province, Iloilo City, Negros Occidental, and Bacolod City accounted for the majority of the reported cases. Thankfully, there were no reports of stray bullet injuries, fireworks ingestion, or fatalities from sentinel sites.
Blast and Burn Injuries Most Common
Blast or burn injuries without amputation were the most prevalent type of injury, with 102 cases recorded.Eye injuries accounted for 42 cases, underscoring the importance of eye protection when handling fireworks.
“The significant decrease in firecracker-related injuries is a positive sign,” a DOH spokesperson stated. “However,ongoing efforts to educate the public on the dangers of illegal fireworks and promote safer alternatives are crucial to prevent future injuries.”
In the spirit of celebrating a safer holiday season, Archyde welcomes Dr.Maria Santos, Regional Director of the Department of Health in Western Visayas, to discuss the remarkable decrease in firecracker-related injuries this past holiday season.
**Archyde:** Dr. Santos, thank you for joining us today. The Department of Health recently released figures showing a dramatic drop in firecracker-related injuries in Western Visayas. Could you elaborate on these findings?
**Dr. Santos:** It’s our pleasure to be here. Yes, we are pleased to report a critically important decline in firecracker-related injuries this holiday season. We recorded only 43 cases compared to a staggering 261 cases during the same period last year.This represents an over 80% reduction, which is truly commendable. [[1](https://www.panaynews.net/safety-over-sparks-goal-zero-firecracker-fires-this-holiday-season/)]
**Archyde:** This is indeed extraordinary news. What do you attribute this substantial reduction to?
**Dr. Santos:** we believe a combination of factors contributed to this positive trend. Firstly, increased public awareness campaigns emphasized the dangers associated with firecrackers. The DOH, together with local governments adn community organizations, actively promoted safer alternatives to firecrackers, like sparklers and noisemakers.
Secondly, stricter enforcement of ordinances banning the sale and use of firecrackers in certain areas played a crucial role. community vigilance played a significant part. neighbors looking out for each other, reporting illegal firework activities, and educating children about safety contributed immensely to this success.
**Archyde:** In the article published by Panay News, you mentioned the goal of achieving “zero firecracker fires” this holiday season. Though this wasn’t quite reached, are you satisfied with the progress made?
**Dr. Santos:** While we aimed for zero injuries, we are incredibly proud of the progress made. This signifies a shift in mindset towards a safer festivity. We remain committed to continually working towards a future where fireworks-related injuries are a thing of the past.
**Archyde:** What message do you have for our audience as we move into the New Year?
**Dr. Santos:** Let’s continue to prioritize safety and responsible celebrations.
Encourage your loved ones to choose safer alternatives to firecrackers and embrace the spirit of the festivities without compromising well-being.
**Archyde:** Thank you, Dr. Santos, for sharing these valuable insights. Your dedication to public health is truly commendable. We wish you and the Department of Health continued success in promoting a safer and healthier Western Visayas.
## Interview with dr. [Alex Reed Name],DOH Spokesperson on Firecracker Safety
**Archyde:** dr. [Alex Reed Name], thank you for joining us today. The Department of Health recently released figures showing a significant decrease in firecracker-related injuries during the recent holiday season in Western Visayas. This is certainly positive news. Could you elaborate on these findings and what might be contributing to this decline?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** You’re welcome. We are indeed encouraged by the drastic reduction in firecracker-related injuries. This year,we recorded only 43 cases,a far cry from the 261 cases reported in the previous year.While we celebrate this achievement, we remain vigilant. Factors like increased public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement against illegal firecrackers, and perhaps a shift towards safer celebratory alternatives could be playing a role in this positive trend.
**Archyde:** ThatS promising. The report highlighted that the “boga” was responsible for the majority of these injuries. Can you explain what a “boga” is and why it’s so dangerous?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** The “boga” is a notably dangerous improvised noisemaker.It is indeed frequently enough homemade and lacks the safety features of commercially produced fireworks. The unpredictability of these devices makes them extremely hazardous, capable of causing severe burns, blast injuries, and even loss of limbs.
**Archyde:** The report also mentioned that younger people were disproportionately affected. What steps can families and communities take to protect children from these dangers?
**Dr.[Alex Reed Name]:** Educating children about the dangers of firecrackers is paramount.Adults should lead by example, avoiding the use of illegal fireworks themselves and opting for safer alternatives like sparklers or noisemakers that don’t explode.It’s crucial to supervise children closely during festivities and keep them away from areas where fireworks are being used.
**Archyde:** What are some safer alternatives to traditional firecrackers that people can consider during celebrations?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]:** There are many fun and festive ways to celebrate without resorting to dangerous fireworks. Consider alternatives like confetti poppers, party horns, glow sticks, and musical performances.
**Archyde:** what message would you like to convey to our readers as we move into the new year?
**Dr. [Alex Reed Name]: ** Let’s prioritize safety and duty during celebrations. Let’s make informed choices by choosing safe alternatives, educating our loved ones, and supporting efforts to eliminate illegal and dangerous fireworks. By working together, we can ensure safer and more enjoyable festivities for everyone.
**Archyde:** Thank you, Dr. [Alex Reed Name], for your insights and for helping raise awareness on this vital issue.
