The Buffalo News reported today that the Town of Amherst last Monday became the first Erie County municipality to pass a law that would prohibit drivers from composing, reading or sending a text message while behind the wheel. Violators face a $150 fine for each offense. It also reported that the Cattaraugus County Legislature passed a similar law in June. Niagara County and Erie County legislatures are expected to vote on similar proposed laws in the coming weeks.

Drowning. A Silent Event.
Even the most vigilant parent may not recognize the signs of drowning because we are only familiar with how television shows depict a drowning person. A drowning person does not splash around, wave their hands and call for help. Drowning is a silent event. Because it is such