The Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) in Iloilo City is 100-percent ready for the New Year revelry.

The hospital is on “Code White” in anticipation of health emergencies amid the New Year festivity.

Health workers are on alert for possible fireworks-related injuries and other types of emergencies.

According to data at WVMC, at least 10 fireworks-related injuries were recorded from December 22, 2024; eight of which are outpatient.

Most of the patients were hit by “boga," an improvised cannon made of polyvinyl chloride or PVC that is a synthetic plastic used in a variety of applications.

Dr. Mary Grace Dorin, WVMC Emergency Room doctor, reminds the public that in cases of firecracker-related incidents, it is important to wash the affected area immediately.

“Irrigate it, we have this acronym “RICE,” we have to rest, (irrigate), cold compress, and we have to elevate. If there are bleeding like may mga vascular injuries talaga, you need to pack it with gauze to prevent the gash of blood,” Dr. Dorin said.

In case fingers or hands go severed due to explosion, it is vital to preserve the body part, and take the patient to the nearest health facility immediately.

“We have to wash again and then i-pack  ang natirang part ng daliri na naputol or makita pa.  As much as possible you have to put it inside a plastic or a cup with water na cold or ice. Preserve it at ang golden period natin is less than six hours,” Dr. Dorin added.

The hospital has assured it is prepared in both personnel and equipment to attend to patients.

It has complete surgical instruments and medical supplies such as intravenous (IV) fluids, wound sprays, bandage, burn ointment, suturing instrument kit, and other instruments.

The hospital is further prepared for first aid application using chicken eggs to deal with “watusi” poisoning and other substance ingestion.

Further, WVMC hotline numbers are open 24/7 to attend to needs of patients.

The numbers are (landline) 339-7070 and (mobile) 09695106129, 09694141698, and 09456712858.