HOUSTON – Drew Bivona, child injury attorney and founder of Bivona Law, joins Houston Life with essential safety tips for pools, camps and activity centers — plus what to do after a child is injured.
Pool safety basics
As the school year ends and summer gets underway, water safety should be a top priority. Child injury attorney Drew Bivona, founder of Bivona Law and known as “The Voice for Kids,” recommends simple, proven steps: keep pool gates locked, never leave children unsupervised near water, and learn CPR. Don’t put a child in water activities beyond their ability — swim lessons and floatation devices can help, but supervision is still essential.
Camps and activity centers — ask the right questions
Before sending your child to day camp or an activity center, know the rules. Ask for written safety policies, the chain of command, and contact information for supervisors. Find out how staff handle medical care and emergencies. At activity centers, inspect equipment, mats and flooring for hazards, and be mindful about supervisor-to-child ratios. Bivona notes that waivers may apply in some cases but aren’t always enforceable; it’s important to understand what you’re signing before you do.
After an injury — what to do
If an injury happens, start with medical care. Document the scene: take photos, save text messages or emails, and get an incident report from the facility. Speak directly with owners or administrators and keep a record of those conversations. If anything about the explanation or handling of the incident doesn’t sound right, consult an attorney — especially when the injury may indicate negligence.
For parents and caregivers in Houston, a little preparation can prevent a lot of heartache. Bivona Law offers free case evaluations. To learn more, visit bivonalaw.com or call 832-662-6948.