DOH V launches Iwas paputok campaign

By: Cherry G. Neptuno

Department of Health Bicol (DOH V) launches its yearly Iwas Paptutok Campaign with
the theme Maging ligtas nayong kapaskuhan, mga biktima ng kalamidad handugan.
This activity aims to reduce injury during holiday season with the aid of other agencies
like Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Information Agency and Eco Coalition.
in support to it, Bicol Regional Teaching and Training Hospital posted poster showing
images that shows injured people to discourage the public of using fireworks.
The agency suggested that instead of buying firecrackers people can use the money to
help the victims of Typhoon Yolanda to make their holiday become merrier as well.
They said that there are five things to remember about fireworks, it is dangerous,
hazardous to children, people should avoid using it, do not pick-up and used busted
firecrackers; go to the nearest hospital in case of accidents.
DOH-HPU Admin Officer, Mr. Jaime Guerrero states that holiday season is a best day
for family bounding but it should be done in a safe way.
He said that they are encouraging the public to use alternative noise-makers on New
Year like car horns, cans, pots, pan, radio music, torotot and others but must not forget
the essence of Christmas.
13 ways to celebrate Christmas in a healthy way
By: Cherry G. Neptuno
Great season is merrier with great responsibility Jaime Guerrero, Admin Officer of
Department Of Health-Health Promotion Unit Bicol said.
He said that during holidays public tend to have unhealthy habit like eating foods that is
unnecessary causing illness like heart disease and diabetes.
DOH Bicol gives off 13 ways to celebrate Christmas in a healthy way. First on the list is
to prepare early for the season to avoid stress during this season people tend to rush
themselves on market to buy goods. It also causes over fatigue and stress, this also
result to complications such as heart diseases and hypertension.
In giving gifts, DOH also suggested checking if it is age-appropriate, for children it is
advisable to choose toys without small and sharp parts, which may cause choking and
injury, it is Also Better to read and follow instruction carefully.

The agency also advises the public to buy registered products. Holiday lights, lanterns
and other decorations for instance should be from legal registered manufacturer and the
product should bear the ICC sticker.
When it comes to food, it is advised to prepare well-balance meals. Vegetables and
fruits should be in table in table together with traditional food. In addition, food
cleanliness and freshness should be observed to avoid food poisoning.
It is also better to eat just the right amount of food at parties and gatherings. Drink
plenty of liquids to facilitate excretion but avoid too much alcohol for it result to serious
damage to the liver and heart or may induce stroke.
DOH also stresses no drunk driving to prevent vehicular accident. Regular exercise to
stay fit is also advice, walking, running or dancing may do.
Also having enough sleep put the mind and the body in good condition. Avoiding
crowded areas is also applicable to avoid bacteria causing diseases. Airy and wellventilated areas are essential to healthy living according to DOH.
Changes on temperature causes cough colds and fever so kit is advice that individuals
should take care of themselves and their family.
Lastly, avoid injuries/accidents from the use of firecrackers.