Gary Karton

Whether it’s in motorboats, sailboats, kayaks or canoes, there’s a good chance most of us will be hanging out in some kind of boat this spring or summer. After all, it’s one of the best ways for family and friends to spend time together and experience the freedom that comes from cruising on lakes, rivers and oceans.

One of the best parts of my job at Safe Kids is working with families who generously share their stories to inspire other parents to get involved. The following story is one of my favorites because it really shows what our work is all about – the little things you can do that can make a big difference.

This month the National Safety Council is observing Distracted Driving Awareness Month and giving us all an important reminder of the potentially tragic consequences to driving while talking or texting. The Council is asking all drivers to stop using cell phones while they drive.

From the moment our babies start to crawl, the world is a magical place filled with new adventures and discoveries. We want to create an environment where kids have the freedom to explore and discover and have fun. That means taking a few precautions around the house to minimize the risk of serious injuries.

Every December, my family piles into our 2001 minivan (275,000 miles and counting) and heads to Buffalo to visit my mother-in-law. I call her “Grammy Yes” because whenever my kids asked Grammy a question, the answer was always, “yes.”

“Yes, you can have chocolate-covered potato chips for breakfast.”

“Yes, you can stay up as late as you want.”