BACOLOD CITY (PIA) – Authorities in this city are strictly imposing policies designating community firecracker and fireworks display zones to minimize environmental, fire, and public health risks.
The Bacolod City Government, Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Bacolod City are working closely together to ensure that pertinent laws are being followed across the metro.
According to the authorities, the use of firecrackers is not allowed in densely populated areas, pursuant to Executive Order No. 28 providing for the regulation and control of the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.
Hence, local government units (LGUs) must assign firecracker zones in their respective localities where citizens may use firecrackers or fireworks, except those tagged as illegal and extremely harmful.
While the complete list of designated firecracker areas is yet to be issued, strict compliance with safety precautions must be observed, including the unrestricted access of first aid responders to the firing zone, absence of flammable materials nearby, and a security plan.
Fire Officer (FO) Paul Servano, information officer of the Bacolod City Fire Station, said the only permitted firecrackers display zone in Bacolod City is Pope John Paul II Tower.
Other areas where firecrackers are sold are deemed illegal.
To further promote a safe and injury-free Holiday, local authorities highlight the 2024 OPLAN IWAS PAPUTOK campaign themed “Paskong Ligtas, Bagong Taong Maaliwalas.”
This nationwide campaign of the fire department intends to raise firecracker awareness, promote noisemaking alternatives, and ultimately protect the community from firecracker-related incidents.
As of 02:00 PM of December 28, the Department of Health Negros Island Region Center for Health Development (DOH NIR CHD) has logged 17 firecracker-related injuries since Dec. 21.
Of this number, 11 are blast or burn injuries (without amputation) and 6 are eye injuries.
The health department continues to enjoin Filipinos in celebrating New Year free from the harm firecrackers pose. (AGP/ BPS/PIA Negros Occidental)
