The Government of Antioquia launched the ‘I am Anti-Polvora’ campaign in an effort to prevent gunpowder incidents during the Christmas season.
The initiative, developed in coordination with the Aburrá Valley Metropolitan Area, the National Police and other institutions, seeks to raise awareness among citizens about the risks associated with the use of fireworks.
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So far this year, 27 people burned with gunpowder have already been reported in the department.
In 2023, Antioquia registered 150 cases of burns, 87 of them in the Aburrá Valley, and 57 specifically in Medellín, figures that authorities seek to drastically reduce this year.
Brigadier General William Castaño Ramos, commander of the Aburrá Valley Metropolitan Police, highlighted that in 2023 more than 1.5 tons of gunpowder were seized in the region, of which 986 kilos were in Medellín.
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In addition, he recalled that the National Security and Coexistence Code establishes fines of up to 16 current legal monthly minimum wages for those who violate the regulations on the use of pyrotechnic articles.
Courtesy photo.
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2024-11-19 13:39:00
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Can you explain the role of local organizations and the National Police in supporting the ‘I am Anti-Polvora’ campaign?
**Interview with Maria Elena Torres, Director of Public Safety in Antioquia**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Maria Elena. Can you tell us a bit more about the ‘I am Anti-Polvora’ campaign and its goals?
**Maria Elena Torres:** Thank you for having me. The ‘I am Anti-Polvora’ campaign was launched by the Government of Antioquia to prevent incidents related to gunpowder, particularly during the Christmas season when the use of fireworks traditionally increases. Our main goal is to educate citizens about the dangers associated with fireworks and to promote safer alternatives for celebrating.
**Editor:** What specific strategies are being employed in this campaign to reach the community?
**Maria Elena Torres:** We are employing a multi-faceted approach that includes educational workshops in schools, community outreach programs, and partnerships with local organizations. We are also leveraging social media and traditional media to share important safety messages, and we are working with the National Police to enforce regulations on the sale and use of fireworks.
**Editor:** Have you seen any notable impacts from the campaign so far this year?
**Maria Elena Torres:** While it’s still early in the season, we have noticed increased engagement from the community regarding safety discussions, and we’re optimistic about reducing incidents. Our aim is to create a culture of safety around fireworks, especially among families and young people.
**Editor:** What message would you like to convey to citizens as we approach the holiday season?
**Maria Elena Torres:** The safest way to enjoy the festive season is to prioritize the well-being of ourselves and our loved ones. We encourage everyone to refrain from using fireworks and to explore safer alternatives. Remember, a celebration should never come at the cost of someone’s safety.
**Editor:** Thank you, Maria Elena, for sharing this important initiative with us today. We hope the campaign is successful in keeping the community safe during the holidays.
**Maria Elena Torres:** Thank you for helping us spread the word!