By Patricia Lanzagarita

MANILA — As New Year is an important occasion for all Filipinos and people all over the world, they are doing their best to make it enjoyable. Yet, we need to prioritize our health and well-being by being safe during the event.

Here are the three safe ways to celebrate the New Year with your loved ones and family:

Don’t light firecrackers

Even though noise is a significant part of the New Year, the national government advised the people to stop using firecrackers during this time as it has a disadvantageous effect when wrongly used. Some people attain major injuries because of it every year so it’s the best way to avoid it at all costs.

Monitor what you eat and drink

In these holidays where we prepare a bunch of food for our family and loved ones, it is important to monitor our food and alcohol intake. Overindulging can pose a real danger to our health. Hospitals and medical professionals especially advise to avoid overeating fatty and sugary foods.

Don’t drink and drive

Drinking during the holiday and driving is not a good combination. So, if you intend to go out and drink, you must designate a driver or call a taxi. This reminder is not just for holidays and can be used for our everyday life–always drink moderately and in control. Don’t risk your and others’ safety.

Holidays offer a glint of happiness to people around the world. Nonetheless, being safe is the priority on these occasions. So, remind yourself to always be safe by using these steps.

(IAmigo/MNM)

By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has documented a total of 107 cases of injuries related to firecrackers, with an additional 11 reported on Saturday (30 Dec 2023).

Out of the 11 cases, six involved the use of illegal firecrackers, as stated by the DOH.

The department revealed that among the 11 cases, a 72-year-old man was included.

“No one is spared from the harm caused by fireworks: young or old, male or female, actively participating or merely bystanders. We report a new case today of a 72-year-old male from NCR who sustained burns and abrasions due to a skyrocket (Kwitis) ignited by someone else on the street,” the DOH stated.

The agency emphasized that it is advisable to attend community fireworks displays to reduce the risk of injuries from firecrackers.

“The data is clear: injuries related to fireworks often occur at home or in its vicinity, typically involving young males, but also affecting passive observers of any age or gender,” it added.

“It is still best to watch community fireworks displays from a safe distance. The role of parents and community leaders is crucial.”

(IAmigo/MNM)

After the solemn observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, the whole of Christendom now shifts to holiday mode as they prepare for the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s Day celebrations.

With just 53 days left until Christmas Day, vendors in Plaza Quezon, Las Pinas City, are working diligently to create beautiful, colorful lanterns made of bamboo and plastic sheets. This festive activity started on Thursday, November 2, 2023.

These vendors have a wide variety of specific decorations and colors available for their lanterns. According to them, right after All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, decorators and buyers eagerly start purchasing their Christmas lanterns.

(Report and photography by Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)