Three of the four reported Fireworks-Related Injuries (FWRI) in the Bicol region were caused by improvised canons or boga. Improvised canons or “boga” are handmade pyrotechnic devices usually made from PVC pipes or bamboo.
Of the four FWRI cases in the region, two (2) cases were in Camarines Sur, one (1) from Camarines Norte, and one (1) from Albay. All cases were involving minors, with the youngest at seven years old and the oldest at fifteen years old.
With this, Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development raises an alarm on the use of improvised canons. Boga is highly discouraged as it may cause burns, lacerations, and amputations.
Though hospitals and other health facilities in the region are prepared should any untoward incidents brought by firecrackers occur, DOH discourages the use of other firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.
Parents are advised to prohibit their children from using harmful firecrackers to prevent similar incidents during the holiday season. Local Government Units (LGUs) and other agencies are likewise urged to implement and continuously enforce protocols on activities that pose physical harm.
The Bicol CHD encourages the use of alternative methods to celebrate the holidays without the dangers of firework use. This includes using lights and objects such as horns, musical instruments, and other noise-making materials.
Photo: DOH Bicol