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Firecrackers are gorgeous, but they can also be a recipe for disaster when mishandled.

In a few months, a sudden wave of fireworks will go off in Metro Manila as everyone will be welcoming the new year.

Just imagine, a celebration of good food with your loved ones filled with a colorful firecracker display.

As much as fireworks look pretty in the gorgeous night sky, it can also cause burns and eye injuries to both kids and adults. The best way to protect your family is not to use any pyrotechnic devices at home --- period.

In the Philippines, the use of individual and residential firecrackers is illegal as mandated back in 2017 through Executive Order No. 28 which states the regulation of pyrotechnic devices for the safety and security of the public.

Department of Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said there was a significant decrease of firework-related injuries since the implementation of E.O. No.28.

He tells The Healthy Juan, “Actually, 27% ang ibinaba ng ating firework-related injuries. Noong 2016 mayroon tayong 633 cases at bumagsak ito to 463 cases nung 2017.

“Bumagsak ito ng malaking bilang bunsod ng E.O. No 28 which prohibits individual and residential use of fireworks and shifting to community fireworks display instead.

“'Yun ang pinakamaganda at pinakamalaking nakapag-pababa sa ating firework-related injuries.”

Based on statistics, the DOH tallies more than 50% of kids aged 15 years old and below who are victims of firework-related injuries.

Hence, in 1994, the Department of Health launched the “Iwas Putol, Iwas Paputok” campaign to remind children and their parents of the cause and effects of the improper use and mishandling of fireworks.

Sec. Duque adds, “Kaya tayo nakakuha ng very positive results dahil ang DOH ay walang humpay at walang tigil sa adbokasiya tungkol dito.

“Pumupunta tayo sa mga eskwelahan, mga komunidad, sa mga barangay, at pati na mga ospital. Ang ating advocacy work ay may kaakibat na tv at print ads so malaking tulong po talaga ito.”

Among the many illegal firecrackers include watusi, piccolo, kwitis, luces, fountain, mother rocket, and so much more.

Some safety tips to keep in mind

Because pyrotechnic devices hold such a high risk for serious injuries, the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine National Police recommend people to avoid consumer fireworks entirely and enjoy public displays put on by professionals.

If you end up lighting them yourself for the holiday (note: please do not be the person shooting these), commit these safety tips to memory:

1. Know your local laws

Following Executive Order 28, firecracker use is limited to community fireworks displays. The Department of Health and the Philippine National Police have banned the use of illegal firecrackers at home.

2. Never let children handle fireworks, firecrackers, and sparklers

Sparklers burn hot enough to melt some metals so imagine what they can do to a kid's hands. Always keep a close eye on your children at any event where people are lighting fireworks.

3. Avoid alcohol while handling fireworks or sparklers

Just like drinking and driving, handling fireworks when drunk is an accident waiting to happen.

4. Douse all your fireworks and sparklers with water after you're done

To ensure the safety of everyone around you, douse all pyrotechnic devices with water because you don't want a trash fire in your hands.

5. Know first aid

Fireworks are no joke, and you or someone else can get seriously injured while using them. Pay attention to your surroundings and keep an eye on everyone you know. Make sure you're also alert if anyone gets injured.

Here are some practical tips provided by the Department of Health:

• Firecracker poisoning - For adults, drink 12 egg whites. For children, drink eight egg whites
• Burns - Wash with clean water and soap. Apply gauze.
• Eye injuries - Never rub your eyes.

Never apply ointment, take pain meds, or attempt to remove any objects before going to the hospital. If you experience any of the common injuries above, seek medical attention immediately.