5 dead in road accidents since 23 December; firecracker incidents up

The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported that five persons have died due to road-related accidents since 23 December.

Of those fatalities, three were related to motorcycle accidents.

Additionally, the DOH logged 39 new cases of road accidents on Monday, bringing the total to 457.

Of the total, 393 individuals were not using safety accessories, 322 incidents involved motorcycles, and 76 of the victims were under the influence of alcohol.

This marks a 38 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

“The cases of road accidents have increased again. Most of them are involved in motorcycle accidents,” the DOH noted.

The department reminded motorcycle drivers to always wear helmets.

“If your relative is going to ride a motorcycle, tell them to wear a helmet and other safety gear for their own safety,” it added.

Updated firecracker tally

The DOH also reported that the number of firecracker-related injuries are 44 percent higher this year compared to the same period last year.

From 22 to 30 December, the DOH recorded 163 total cases of firecracker-related injuries with 21 new cases logged Monday.

Of the figure, 135 are aged below 19.

Meanwhile, 148 of the victims are male, while 15 are female.

Additionally, 118 or 72 percent of cases were due to illegal firecrackers, such as "5-star", "piccolo", and "boga."

Of which, 106 or 65 percent actively used firecrackers.

Meanwhile, the DOH said reminded the public to be prepared for firecracker-related injuries.

For treating wounds, the DOH advised to: Immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water; Cover with sterilized gauze bandage or clean cloth; and Press the injured part to stop the bleeding.

For a shot in the eye, the DOH advised to: Flush the affected eye with clean and warm water and not ice water; Do not fidget or scratch the affected eye; Cover the affected eye with a clean cloth or gauze; and Immediately bring to the emergency room to be given another tetanus shot.

On the other hand, for those who swallowed firecrackers, the DOH advised to not force the victim to vomit and instead feed raw egg whites: six to eight pieces for children and eight to 12 pieces for adults.