FDA issues advisory on use of horns

MANILA, Philippines - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) yesterday issued an advisory warning the public against the possible choking hazard associated with the use of torotot or horn this Yuletide season.

“Last year, the FDA received a confirmed report that two children, aged three and eight, were brought to hospital because a part of torotot, a noisemaker, detached during use and was aspirated. The children were treated to remove the foreign objects in their airways,” said FDA director Dr. Suzette Lazo, adding that the agency does not want this incident to be repeated.

Lazo noted that certain types of torotot are made of plastic, foil and paper attached together using adhesives. The plastic object inside a device may be detached and may be swallowed by children.

“Small children may choke if the detached part is aspirated. Always check the quality of the torotot before purchase. Make sure that the parts are not easily removed so as not to cause hazard to users, particularly children,” she said.

The FDA warned that torotots do not usually have warning labels and their manufacturers or distributors are not licensed by the agency.

It has been part of Filipino tradition to make noise to welcome the New Year by using firecrackers, playing loud music or blowing the torotot.

The noise is said to drive away bad spirits.