There's been so much death in the news lately --- tragic local incidents, and high profile cases of people losing their lives. 

And the thing that has become so painfully clear to me as we report these stories, is that many tragic deaths could be avoided, if only people played by the rules.

I mean, it's really simple:

If you're a high profile former NFL star, try not to have an extramarital affair with a nutjob and you won't get your head blown off.

If you're an eccentric, out-of-touch-with-reality pop star, try not to use powerful anesthesia to fall asleep and maybe you might just wake up in the morning.

Always wear a life jacket on a boat if you don't know how to swim.

Don't have a violent argument with your husband when you're trying to drive on a busy highway.

And don't put other people's lives in danger by shooting off military flares near buildings that could be highly susceptible to grease fires.

 I could go on and on...

Now, many of the stories I've alluded to still haven't had conclusive outcomes.  But they are still great reminders that the rules of life are in place for a reason.  Just do what you're supposed to do, and just maybe you'll live to see another day.

Because people never think they could become a statistic.  But toy with the grim reaper in just the right way, and chances are your number will be up.