safety tips

Individuals with Autism at Substantially Heightened Risk for Injury/Death

Autism spectrum disorder, or simply autism, is a developmental disorder that significantly impacts how a person sees and engages with his or her world. Autism can affect an individual’s emotional reactions, language development, body language, and comprehension of the intentions of others. Autism has a broad spectrum, with many levels and ranges in abilities. About… read more

The Most Common Playground Injuries

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emergency departments treat more than 200,000 children 14 years and younger for playground-related injuries in the U.S. every year. About 45% of these injuries are severe, such as broken bones, concussions, internal injuries, and limb amputations. Most playground accidents stem from human error or negligence, such… read more

How to Spot Unsafe Playground Equipment and What to Do About It

Safe playground equipment is ultimately the manufacturer’s responsibility, but diligence on the part of parents and supervisors can help protect children from hazards. Unsafe playground equipment is a more common occurrence than many parents realize, often due to manufacturer negligence in design or assembly. More than 200,000 children in the U.S. have to seek treatment for playground-related injuries every… read more

What is Dry (or Delayed) Drowning?

Most parents are aware of the risk of children drowning during water activities, but many have never heard of dry drowning. Dry drowning, or secondary/delayed drowning, is a frightening possibility for any child who has been in water recently. Dry drowning may sound like an oxymoron, but it happens much the same as typical drowning. When a child… read more

How to Respond to a Water Emergency

Tragedy struck the Murrieta Valley Unified School District last June when 13-year- old student Alex Pierce passed away after an end-of- year school swim party. Pierce’s parents filed a wrongful death claim with help from their legal representation at Panish, Shea & Boyle, LLP, against the school district in September. His death was preventable, as he was at… read more