The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday, 14 December, renewed its warning to the public against the dangers of firecrackers as the Christmas and New Year season approaches.

In a radio interview, DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo urged local government units to organize community fireworks displays instead of allowing individual use of firecrackers.

"A lot of people use firecrackers during Christmas and New Year. But it's better if they just join community fireworks," Domingo said.

He also reminded parents and guardians to strictly prohibit children from using firecrackers.

"Right now, we haven't noticed yet those who set off firecrackers much. But let's not let children light firecrackers," he added.

Domingo further reminded the public that zero balance billing covers patients who sustain injuries from fireworks, as well as those injured in accidents involving alcohol consumption during the holiday season.

He also advised those traveling during the holidays to wear helmets and seatbelts and to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol.

Data from the DOH showed that 422 firework-related injuries were recorded in the National Capital Region alone from 21 December 2024 to 6 January. This accounted for nearly half of the 843 firework-related injuries reported nationwide from 22 December 2024 to 6 January.