Headline Update: DOH Reports 112 Fireworks-Related Injuries
The Department of Health (DOH) has released a cautious warning as New Year celebrations approach, noting 112 fireworks-related injuries (FWRIs) nationwide from December 2 onward. The figure comes from data gathered across 62 DOH sentinel sites and underscores the persistent risks associated with festive pyrotechnics in crowded urban and rural communities alike.
Fireworks have long been part of the country’s year-end traditions, bringing color and excitement to the night sky. However, medical officials emphasize that even small, legal consumer items can cause serious harm when misused or handled without proper precautions. The latest count, while preliminary, signals a trend that public health authorities say is preventable with better awareness and safer practices.
The injuries span a range of incidents, but hands, eyes, and ears remain the most commonly affected areas. In many cases, injuries occur when spectators or users mishandle devices, attempt to light them indoors, or fail to maintain a safe distance. Hospitals and clinics are prepared for a surge in cases in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, with health workers urging communities to exercise caution and to keep a ready first-aid kit on hand during celebrations.
What the Numbers Mean for Public Safety
While 112 injuries may seem manageable compared with previous years, public health officials caution against complacency. Each incident can lead to long-term complications, including vision loss, severe burns, and occupational hazards for those in areas where crowd-control and vendor safety are limited. The DOH notes that the sentinel-site data provide a snapshot of incidents that local health facilities treat, and it cautions that actual numbers could be higher due to underreporting in some communities.
Experts stress that the season’s high risk is tied to both the prevalence of fireworks and the sheer scale of gatherings. In densely populated cities, public squares and residential streets often see a mix of families and groups celebrating with improvised displays, sometimes with dangerous mixtures of devices or unauthorized items. In rural areas, misfiring devices and lack of immediate access to medical care can also compound the risk.
Ways to Reduce the Risk During Festivities
- Choose safer, government-approved fireworks and use them outdoors away from structures, vehicles, and crowds.
- Always supervise children and keep a safe distance after lighting a device.
- Have a dedicated water source or a bucket of sand nearby and never attempt to relight a device that fails to ignite.
- Wear protective eyewear if you are handling fireworks and consider keeping pets indoors away from loud noises.
- Distribute risk communication at community gatherings, emphasizing designated lighting zones and the importance of keeping open spaces clear for safety.
Public health officials advise coordinating with local authorities for allowed display areas and times, and avoiding improvised or homemade devices. They also remind revelers that inexpensive safety measures, such as keeping a first-aid kit and having quick access to emergency services, can reduce the severity of injuries.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for New Year’s Eve
As the countdown to the new year begins, communities are urged to celebrate responsibly. The DOH is partnering with local health units and non-governmental organizations to disseminate safety guidance, distribute multilingual alert materials, and provide practical tips for households hosting gatherings or attending public events. The objective is clear: minimize preventable injuries while preserving the joy and tradition of a festive New Year period.
For more information on fireworks safety and real-time health advisories during the holiday season, residents are encouraged to consult official DOH announcements and local health department resources.
