Philippine government appeals against firecracker use at New Year

Manila - The Philippines' health department Thursday issued a last-minute appeal for Filipinos to refrain from using firecrackers during rowdy New Year's Eve celebrations to prevent injuries or deaths. Filipinos traditionally explode firecrackers, fire their guns in the air and make a lot of noise during New Year's Eve in the belief that this will drive away the bad luck of the past year and attract good luck in the coming year.

But Health Secretary Francisco Duque said accidents caused by the use of firecrackers and indiscriminate firing of guns have already injured 210 people since December 21, up 22 per cent from last year.

He called for a ban on the use of firecrackers in residential areas and urged local authorities to designate common fireworks areas.

"These devices are not toys and are very dangerous, especially in the hands of innocent children," he said. "Fireworks should be lighted and handled by professionals."

Hospitals around the Philippines have been placed on alert ahead of the New Year celebrations to prepare for a possible surge in patients.

Authorities earlier taped shut the muzzles of service firearms of police officers and soldiers not on duty during New Year's Eve around the country to ensure that none of them would be firing their guns in the air at midnight.

The military and police warned that officers and personnel would face dismissal and administrative charges if they were found to have done so.

Source: Earth Times.
Link: http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/301588,philippine-government-appeals-against-firecracker-use-at-new-year.html.