Half of firework-related injuries occurred at home — DOH

Nearly half of firework-related injuries (FWRI) recorded nationwide occurred in victims’ homes, data from the Department of Health (DOH) showed.

As of yesterday morning, a total of 46 FWRI, including three new cases, were admitted to the 60 DOH-retained hospitals all over the country since Dec. 21.

Of the total figure, almost 50 percent or 20 cases occurred in homes while 23 patients sustained injuries on the street. Three other remaining cases did not cite the place of occurrence. According to the DOH, the three new cases came from Western Visayas, Central Visayas and the National Capital Region (NCR).

The DOH noted that total recorded FWRI admissions this year was 49 percent lower compared to the figure during the same period a year ago.

A majority or 41 of the cases were males with ages ranging from two to 69 years old.

Forty-four of the injuries were due to fireworks while two of the victims were young children who accidentally ingested firecrackers.

Almost half or 22 of the cases were caused by illegal firecrackers such as boga, piccolo and five star. Kwitis, a legal firecracker, caused five injuries and triangle three.

Twenty-six of the victims sustained blast and burn injuries while five suffered injuries needing amputation. Eye injuries accounted for 15 cases.

More FWRIs are likely to be admitted to hospitals as the nation prepares for the New Year celebration.