Hospitals on alert for holiday injuries

Holiday Hazards Hospitals on High Alert for Seasonal Injuries

As the holiday season approaches, it's essential to prioritize safety amidst the festive atmosphere. The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a warning about the expected surge in road traffic and firework-related injuries during this period. Last year's data reveals that from December 21st to January 6th, there were 826 reported road-traffic injuries nationwide, with over half involving motorcyclists not wearing helmets.

A Real and Present Danger

Fireworks also pose a significant threat, with 844 documented cases during the same period. Many of these incidents involve illegal or improvised fireworks, which can lead to devastating consequences. Most of the victims are young people, said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, emphasizing the importance of parents supervising their children and discouraging the use of fireworks.

A Call for Vigilance

Herbosa also highlighted the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, even in small amounts. He stressed that this significantly increases the risk of accidents and encouraged individuals to opt for alternative noisemakers during festivities like drums or sound systems instead of relying on fireworks.

Hospital Preparedness is Crucial

To ensure a timely response to these types of incidents, all DOH hospitals have been instructed to ensure their readiness. Herbosa will personally visit the hospitals to monitor the preparedness of healthcare workers not only for firework-related injuries but also for road-traffic injuries. He emphasized that post-crash response is crucial in saving lives.

Conclusion

As we navigate the holiday season, it's essential to be aware of these potential hazards and take necessary precautions. By being vigilant, staying informed, and prioritizing safety, we can ensure a joyous and incident-free celebration for all.

Keywords road traffic injuries, firework-related injuries, holiday safety, DOH hospitals, health care workers, post-crash response

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.