NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
DOH: Watusi Fireworks Pose Deadly Threat
FILE
Watusi fireworks have been found to contain lethal components such as Yellow Phosphorus, Potassium Chlorate, Potassium Nitrate, and Trinitrotoluene (TNT).
With their candy-like appearance, children are at risk of ingestion, leading to fatal consequences.
A recent incident involving a 4-year-old in CALABARZON underscores the urgency of keeping these dangerous fireworks away from homes.
The latest Fireworks-Related Injuries (FWRI) report of the Department of Health (DOH) from 6:00 AM on Dec 27 to 5:59 AM on Dec 28 reveals a concerning surge with thirteen new cases.
Most victims, ranging from 5 to 49 years old, are predominantly male. Shockingly, twelve cases occurred at home and in the streets, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness.
Notably, the report discloses the first case of firework ingestion involving a 4-year-old boy. The public is urged to avoid Watusi fireworks at all costs.
Emergency guidelines stress that inducing vomiting is not recommended if Watusi is swallowed. Instead, children may be given raw egg whites, while adults require a higher dosage. Immediate medical attention is vital in such cases. For eye contact, swift and prolonged rinsing with water is essential, and for skin exposure, thorough washing and removal of contaminated clothing are advised.
The overall FWRI tally stands at eighty-eight cases, with NCR accounting for 35%. Central Luzon, Ilocos Region, Bicol Region, Davao Region, and Soccsksargen follow in rank. A staggering 96% of incidents occurred at home or in the streets, predominantly involving males actively engaging with fireworks.
The identified culprits, including Boga, 5-Star, Kwitis, Piccolo, Pla-Pla, Whistle Bomb, and Luces, contribute to 68% of injuries. Illegal fireworks play a significant role, causing 59% of cases.
With their candy-like appearance, children are at risk of ingestion, leading to fatal consequences.
A recent incident involving a 4-year-old in CALABARZON underscores the urgency of keeping these dangerous fireworks away from homes.
The latest Fireworks-Related Injuries (FWRI) report of the Department of Health (DOH) from 6:00 AM on Dec 27 to 5:59 AM on Dec 28 reveals a concerning surge with thirteen new cases.
Most victims, ranging from 5 to 49 years old, are predominantly male. Shockingly, twelve cases occurred at home and in the streets, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness.
Notably, the report discloses the first case of firework ingestion involving a 4-year-old boy. The public is urged to avoid Watusi fireworks at all costs.
Emergency guidelines stress that inducing vomiting is not recommended if Watusi is swallowed. Instead, children may be given raw egg whites, while adults require a higher dosage. Immediate medical attention is vital in such cases. For eye contact, swift and prolonged rinsing with water is essential, and for skin exposure, thorough washing and removal of contaminated clothing are advised.
The overall FWRI tally stands at eighty-eight cases, with NCR accounting for 35%. Central Luzon, Ilocos Region, Bicol Region, Davao Region, and Soccsksargen follow in rank. A staggering 96% of incidents occurred at home or in the streets, predominantly involving males actively engaging with fireworks.
The identified culprits, including Boga, 5-Star, Kwitis, Piccolo, Pla-Pla, Whistle Bomb, and Luces, contribute to 68% of injuries. Illegal fireworks play a significant role, causing 59% of cases.
Dec 28, 2023
