BWG Consumer Alert: July 2011

In Massachusetts, when school lets out for the summer, children quickly start looking for the nearest pool or beach to cool off. 

But the warm weather can bring tragedy if we're not careful. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report about 10 people die in unintentional drownings each day across the U.S. Many of these victims are young children. For every person who dies, many more are treated in hospitals for non-fatal submersion injuries. 

Maybe your children swims in your backyard pool, a friend’s pool or a public pool or beach. Whatever the case, take time to inspect the pool or beach before your children step in. Swim across the water, use the steps and ladders and note the location of pool drains. Check if the beach fence or pool fence properly locks. This is important even in your own backyard because every year is different; property can age. Children also become stronger and develop new skills.

Swimming should be enjoyable, not a source of injuries. Drownings are preventable if families plan and property owners secure swimming areas. Please read more of our swimming safety tips.

Outdoor family barbecues are a staple of summer. But enjoying food safely in the warm weather requires more planning than indoor gatherings. 

Food poisoning is a greater risk that most people realize. Each year, 48 million Americans are sickened by food poisoning - or one in every six, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of these, 180,000 are hospitalized with serious conditions. Another 3,000 die. 

The good news is food poisoning is preventable. If you grill this summer, click here for safety tips from the Massachusetts food poisoning lawyers at Breakstone, White & Gluck of Boston.

It's not all work and no play for the personal injury lawyers at Breakstone, White & Gluck. When asked about their favorite beaches: 

Marc Breakstone: "I have always loved Crane Beach in Ipswich, MA. It is worth the drive and the price of parking. The water is on the chilly side, but it is beautifully clear. Time your trip right and you can see a sand castle contest." 

David White: "I think the drive to Rhode Island is worth the effort if you have the time. My favorite spot is East Matunuck in South Kingston, a little past Narrangansett. The break at low tide is very long, so it's great for boogie boards. If the waves are up it can get exciting."

Ron Gluck: "If you are taking a little vacation or want to make a long day trip, I would recommend Surfside Beach on Nantucket Island. The waves are great for boogie boarding, and you can ride your bike there from the ferry. It's a wonderful family spot."       

Our personal injury lawyers have more than 100 years combined experience representing clients who have been injured by the negligence of others. Our law firm is based in Boston and we represent those injured across Massachusetts. If you or a loved one has been injured, visit the Our Attorneys page to learn more about our work.