Swimming Pool Accidents a Leading Cause of Death Among Children

Swimming pool accidents and drownings can occur at any time of the year, but during the summer, people are especially likely to be swimming in a pool whether it is at home, at a friend’s house, or a private or public swimming pool. Even seemingly safe swimming areas can present hazards, and children are most at risk. Fortunately, a little knowledge of the hidden dangers can help prevent swimming accidents from happening.

When children are swimming in an in-ground pool, above-ground pool, public pool, lake, pond, creek,  or any other body of water, large or small, close and constant supervision is of the utmost importance, even when a lifeguard is on duty. This is especially true for parents of very young children. For children ages 1-4, an adult should be within arm’s reach at all times, and not be distracted by any other activity.

Helping Older Kids With Swimming Dangers

For older children, […]

Amtrak Investigation Continues, Lawsuits Begin

Deadly Amtrak crash still under investigation, attorneys concerned over 1997 damages cap of $200M

Four passengers and one of the conductors on board the derailed Amtrak train 188 have filed lawsuits against Amtrak as the investigation continues. Amtrak service between Philadelphia and New York resumed this morning with Michael Nutter, mayor of Philadelphia, there to see passengers off.

Speculation as to the official cause of the crash is still going on

Was an object hurled at the train moments before the crash? Does it matter? While the object may not have done damage to the train itself, some say it could have alarmed, distracted, or even wounded the conductor, who says he has no memory of the crash or the final moments leading up to it.  A“black box” data recorder will give a more accurate reading of the train’s speed, […]

After Amtrak Tragedy, What Everyone Should Know about Train Accidents

Tragic Amtrak crash a rarity

On Wednesday, we learned of the Amtrak train that derailed in Philadelphia Tuesday night, leaving eight people dead and 200 injured. The train was traveling at more than 100 mph, more than double the speed limit for that area. The engineer claims to have no memory of the train derailing.

As of now, all 238 passengers are believed to be accounted for, according to Philadelphia mayor Michael Nutter. Amtrak is hoping to resume rail service in the area of the crash next week. Questions about what factors were responsible for the crash, what will become of the engineer, and what will happen to the victims of the accident still remain.

In the wake of this tragedy, here’s what everyone should know

1. First, it is worth noting that train crashes like this one are very rare. […]

Bike safety event highlights serious issue

Lackawanna County to hold a helmet giveaway at PNC park to promote bike safety

As warmer weather comes our way, lots of people are pulling their bicycles and motorcycles out of the garage and taking to the roads.  Soon, the streets and parks will be full of children and adults on their bikes.

Saturday, April 25, Lackawanna County commissioners will hold their third annual bicycle safety fair and helmet giveaway at PNC Park in Moosic, PA. The event will include free food, safety presentations by the Scranton Police Department, a bike rodeo and three-hundred free bike helmets for kids in attendance.  There will also be a drawing for a free bicycle. This event is a great opportunity for families to enjoy the spring weather and for kids to learn how to stay safe. Bike-riding can be a fun way for children to stay active during the spring and summer months, […]

The dangerous mistake people make at railroad crossings

Train and railroad crossing accidents are a matter of rising concern. A Metro North crash in New York on February 3rd left six dead, and at least twelve people injured. It was the deadliest crash in the rail’s history.  An SUV became stuck on the train tracks, and the resulting crash killed the driver and five train passengers.

Just a few weeks later on February 24, a commuter train in southern California derailed when it collided with a pickup truck and trailer. The truck caught fire, three train cars toppled over, a fourth derailed but remained upright.

Then, on March 30, a local man was accidentally killed by a train in Clinton County, PA. Police say he was wearing ear buds at the time and likely didn’t hear the train coming.

“Over 2,000 grade-crossing accidents every year, and there are about 250 fatalities, […]