WITH 72 people reported to have died by drowning during the Holy Week, the Department of Health (DOH) yesterday reminded the public to exercise caution when swimming, especially during the season when Filipinos usually troop to beaches and resorts.
In a press briefing on Wednesday, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire advised parents and guardians to choose establishments that have available lifeguards in their swimming facilities.
“We must ask if there are available lifeguards in choosing the places where we will go to swim,” said Vergeire.
She also reminded parents and guardians to keep an eye on their children when they go swimming to prevent drowning incidents.
“We must keep an eye on our children when we go swimming as they may reach deep areas without us knowing it,” she said.
The DOH also said the public must make sure there are available floating devices and rescue equipment in the swimming areas.
Lastly, it said the public should only swim in beaches or pools that have been permitted by local authorities.
The Philippine National Police has reported that at least 72 people, including 23 minors, died by drowning during the Holy Week.
For those headed to the beaches, the DOH warned them against the threat of jellyfish sting as it can have different reaction to the victims.
Vergeire said that while there are those who may have minimal reaction to such stings, some may experience allergic reactions.
“We must be careful against jellyfish sting as they are common during this season when many head to the sea,” said the health official.
As first aid, she said the stung body part must be thoroughly washed with soap and water, not
