This week is National Public Health Week in the U.S. Various agencies combine efforts to promote safety and injury prevention. Organizations focused on children’s safety play a big role in these education efforts. Many law firms also dedicate time and effort to educating the public regarding safety issues. These attorneys have seen some of the lasting effects caused by catastrophic accidents and many work to ensure the public is made aware of recalls and other safety information that can prevent future incidents. A friend of mine, Annie Reynolds, is a personal injury attorney in Philadelphia and is always on the lookout for ways to communicate safety guidelines, especially those related to children.
Annie’s recent article on car seat safety addresses the March 2011 guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics recommending that all children under the age of 2 be placed in rear-facing car seats. This is an important change that the AAP and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration believe will save lives and lower the risk of serious injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death of children in this country. If you have children, grandchildren or friends with young children, please pass this information along. Stay safe everyone!