Community Safety

Washington – An estimated 24,270 motor vehicle crash fatalities occurred in the first nine months of 2013 – a 3.7 percent decrease from the 2012 estimate from the same time period, according to a new report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Glasgow, United Kingdom – Regular exercise may lower a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer, according to a new study presented at the 9th European Breast Cancer Conference.

Rochester, MN – Having a large waist – even if you have a healthy body mass index – may increase your risk of premature death from heart disease, respiratory problems and cancer, according to a new study from the Mayo Clinic.

Dallas – Remnants of cigarette smoke on household objects may be harmful, especially to young children, suggests a new study presented March 16 at the 247th National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society.

Rosemont, IL – The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the Orthopaedic Trauma Association are collaborating on a new public service campaign intended to help prevent falls among seniors.

Washington – More states are allowing all-terrain vehicles on public roads despite warnings from safety organizations and manufacturers, according to a new report from the Consumer Federation of America.

Pullman, WA – Public service announcements with strong emotional references to death may change people’s willingness to text while driving, according to a recent study from Washington State University.

Washington – Parents can help their kids get adequate rest by setting and enforcing rules for use of electronics at bedtime and modeling healthy sleep habits, according to results of a new poll from the National Sleep Foundation.

Washington – Pedestrian deaths decreased 8.7 percent in the first six months of 2013 compared to the same time period in 2012, according to preliminary data from the Governors Highway Safety Association.

New Haven, CT – Elderly people who take medication for high blood pressure may have a greater risk of falling and being seriously injured, according to researchers at Yale University and Oregon State University.