DOH to pupils: Don’t bring, play with firecrackers in school

CEBU, Philippines — Local health officials warn pupils from bringing or playing with firecrackers within school premises and even discouraged them from using these at home considering the danger of getting injured.

The Department of Education (DepEd) division offices have partnered with the local Department of Health (DOH) office to intensify the information drive and raise awareness among the young individuals on the danger of firecracker use.

DepEd Cebu City Division Superintendent Dr. Bianito Dagatan said the use of firecrackers has not been allowed in schools.

“However, since Executive Order 28 was released, we will disseminate to the schools for them to be informed that prohibition is not only in public places but even in their homes,” he told The FREEMAN.

Executive Order 28, which was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte last June 20, stipulates the regulation and control of the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.

“So far, we have not received an official communication telling us to be part in the information campaign. However, we always take proactive role. With or without an order, we will help disseminate what is best for our learners,” said Dagatan.

Teachers are also ordered to remind their students the risks of using and playing with firecrackers.

For now, Dagatan said there is no incident of any student bringing firecrackers in school but if it happens, he assured that school authorities will have to deal with the matter appropriately.

DepEd-7 Administrative Division chief Victor Yntig said school heads were already oriented on how to deal with instances of catching students bringing or playing with firecrackers inside the school.

He wanted to emphasize that carrying firecrackers is strictly prohibited and appropriate sanctions must be in place.

Yntig suggested that these firecrackers must be confiscated to avoid any untoward incident and the child must be informed of the possible hazards of its use. The parent of the student must also be notified of the matter.

“It should be reiterated that the information dissemination campaign is to ensure health and safety of our children which is also a concern of our President,” he said.

 Meanwhile, the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) is now starting to regulate the display, buying, and use of firecrackers as Christmas is fast-approaching.

According to Supt. Artemio Ricabo, Deputy City Director for Administration, firecracker sellers will have to comply with the necessary permits to be able to display their products.

So far, the South Road Properties is the only approved place to display firecrackers in order to ensure safety.

In a statement, Police Regional Office (PRO)-7 spokesman Supt. ReymanTolentin said sellers will not be issued a permit unless they have a recommendation from their city police director.

Buyers will also have to secure permits for heavy pyrotechnic use.

Ricabo is also reminding the public to use firecrackers responsibly and should keep in mind the dangers and consequences of using these.

He recommends the use of music, lights, and whistles as an alternative way to celebrate Christmas.

Police will patrol in different areas in order to keep an eye on illegal and unsafe use of firecrackers.

Hospitals are also on the alert in cases of accidents and emergencies now that the holidays are fast approaching.  (FREEMAN)