Suriname’s health authorities have reported a concerning rise in fireworks-related injuries, with three confirmed cases requiring emergency medical attention as of Tuesday evening. All victims presented at the Academic Hospital Paramaribo’s Emergency Department with severe ocular trauma, highlighting a disturbing pattern of eye injuries during the holiday season.
The most recent incidents include a 32-year-old male who sustained significant damage to both eyes and nasal structures from commercial-grade color and light display fireworks (KLS). In a separate case, a 6-year-old boy suffered left eye trauma from burning incense. Both patients received initial emergency treatment before being referred to ophthalmologists for specialized care.
This medical emergency follows the first documented case on December 28th, when a 24-year-old man experienced similar ocular damage from fireworks. The consistent nature of these injuries—all involving serious eye trauma—has raised alarms among medical professionals about the dangers of improper fireworks handling.
With legal fireworks sales and usage permitted until midnight on January 1st, 2026, emergency personnel and Suriname’s Fire Brigade have issued urgent safety recommendations. Health officials are particularly emphasizing the critical need for adult supervision of children and adolescents to prevent additional incidents and potential permanent vision impairment. The medical community continues to monitor the situation as New Year’s celebrations approach their peak.