Less firecracker injuries seen

A DECREASE in the number of firecracker related injuries may be possible.

The Police Regional Office – Cordillera (PRO - COR) and the Department of Health – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH – CAR) is eyeing lesser firecracker related injuries due to strict minimum health protocols related to the Coronavirus disease (Covid – 19).

In the weekly Kapihan sa Baguio, Police Lieutenant Colonel Sibly Dawiguey Jr., assistant chief of the Regional Operations Management Division of PROCOR said they are expecting a downtrend in the number of injuries due to the standards observed during the pandemic.

“We are expecting a downtrend but just the same, although there maybe a decrease or even a zero case, we are still reminding the public to adhere to the minimum health standards like avoiding mass

gatherings particularly during this time,” Dawiguey said.

PRO - COR have directive all border control points in the region to conduct strict inspection, not only for documents related to Covid-19, but for illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices that may enter the region this Yuletide season.

DOH - CAR, revealed from December 2019 to January 5,2020, a total of 22 fireworks related injuries with no victims of illegal discharge of firearms were recorded.

Doctor Jennifer Joyce Pira, Medical Doctor 4 of DOH – CAR reiterated the need for the citizens to follow minimum health protocols that would help minimize the number of firecracker related injuries particularly during the health pandemic.

“In my point of view and because we are prohibiting mass gatherings or celebration with big groups, most likely with this kind of directive, it would post a positive effect on our ‘ Iwas Paputok’ campaign because there may only be a few who would be using fireworks on Christmas and New Year,” Pira stated.

DOH – CAR assured health care facilities in the region, particularly during the Christmas and New Year revelry will have separate emergency facilities that would cater to firecracker and other health care needs different from the Covid - 19 cases.

Photo by JJ Landingin ART FEST. The 10th Tam-awan International Arts Festival gets going in a subdued tone like all activities in Baguio City. A traditional ritual opened the festivity while demonstrations of indigenous crafts like basket and backstrap weaving will be held.