DAVAO CITY – What should one do in case of firecracker-related injuries? Or how should we avoid accidents brought by toys given to small kids this Christmas?
Dr. Abdullah Dumama Jr., director of Department of Health Region 11 said they encourage the public to avoid using firecrackers during the holidays.
“We encourage the people to do other means of welcoming the holidays by creating noise like banging the pots aside from using firecrackers,” Dumama said.
In a press conference on Monday, Dumama said in case of an accident from using firecrackers, the victim must wash the wounds with soap and clean water, draining away fragments and traces that might cause infection, before bringing the patient to the nearest health center.
Dumama said DOH 11 all government hospitals and health centers are placed under code “white” this holiday.
He said all medical personnel is on stand-by in the operation center to attend to injuries incurred this holiday season.
He said although Davao City may be spared from the impact of the firecrackers because of the firecracker ban, areas outside Davao City still needs concern.
Dumama also reminded residents to be wary of giving appropriate gifts to children like the ones suitable to child’s capabilities, mental and social, development, and durability of the toy and safety of the child.
He warned parents that balls with diameter of 1.75 inches or less, and toys with sharp points and edges could be swallowed by young kids.
Dumama also reminded the public to be watchful of toys that might have high lead content.
Meanwhile, Councilor Joselle Villafuerte, chair of the city council committee on health also called on the residents to avoid salty and fatty foods during holiday parties and exercise regularly. (davaotoday.com)
