KALIBO, Aklan – The Provincial Health Office has activated its firecrackers and fireworks-related surveillance scheme days ahead of the New Year celebration.
Provincial Health Officer I Dr. Cornelio Cuachon Jr. said they have already instructed all health facilities in Aklan to monitor all incidents related to firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.
The monitoring covers the period Dec. 21 to Jan. 5.
All government private health facilities were also placed in “code white alert,” which means that their staff is ready to respond and provide medical services in case of holiday emergencies.
As of Dec. 26, no firecracker or stray bullet-related incidents were recorded in Aklan.
But the Department of Health has already recorded 24 incidents of these nationwide. Most of the victims were children.
Last year, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order No. 28, which regulates the use of firecrackers by having community fireworks displays at designated zones under the supervision of Philippine National Police as part of “Iwas Paputok” government campaign.
Cuachon urged the public to be “extra vigilant” this holiday season and to coordinate with barangay officials for the designated firecracker zones.
He also reminded parents to make sure that their children won’t pick up unexploded firecrackers to avoid harm.
In case of firecracker-related injuries, go to the nearest hospital, clinic or health center for proper treatment, he added. (With a report from Aklan Forum Journal/PN)
