Don’t buy fireworks without PS mark, DTI says
Tacloban City (December 30) — Trade Secretary Peter Favila cautioned the public not to buy fireworks which do not bear the PS (Philippine Standard) mark.
Secretary Favila issued the warning in a statement issued on December 29, in a bid to remind and make the people aware and to minimize fireworks-related accidents during the New Year revelry.
The Trade Secretary said that the PS mark is a guarantee that the fireworks went through testing and certification.
The Department of Trade and Industry has issued strict guidelines that manufacturers of fireworks must follow before they are allowed to sell their products to the public, Secretary Favila said.
Only locally made firew
orks with the PS mark are allowed to be sold in the market, he added.
However, even with this new standard in place, the Trade Secretary called on the public to exercise caution when using fireworks in the New Year celebration.
Consumers should buy fireworks only from licensed manufacturers as this ensures the safety and quality of the product. Never buy generic fireworks that have no labels.
Consumers should also read instructions before using any kind of fireworks.
Furthermore, in lighting any type of fireworks, consumers should not use candles, cigarettes, or mosquito coils. A long pole should be used instead, as this will place enough distance between the user and the ignition point.
The DTI also said that clothes made of synthetic fiber such as polyester should not be worn by anyone using any kind of fireworks as these are prone to combustion. As much as possible, wear glasses or goggles to protect the eyes.
As for the spectators, they must always keep a safe distance from any fireworks.
Finally, the public must keep a bucket of water and a first-aid kit on hand in case of any accident. (PIA Reg. 
