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To accomplish its mission
the IPC engages in four primary activities: research, education and training, community
safety programs, and public policy.
- Research
The
foundation of our Center is our scientific research program with a focus predominantly on
research with implications for primary prevention of injury. Epidemiological research on
both unintentional injuries and violence are key areas of investigation. Our research
ranges from development of basic data systems to applied program evaluations, often
collaborating with scientists from different academic disciplines and institutions.
- Education and Training
Another
of the Centers objectives is to enhance the capabilities of new professionals to
engage in injury control research and intervention activities. These efforts include a
formal injury prevention course for University of Connecticut public health degree
students, full day workshops for child health and education practitioners, and
participation in training the University of Connecticut School of Medicines
residents and medical students. Additionally, the IPC educates the general public and
marshals public support through media appearances, op-ed pieces, and presentations to
diverse groups across the state.
- We develop and evaluate new
injury prevention programs using community education, legislative and regulatory action,
and product-environmental modification.
- The IPCs community
outreach arm is SAFE KIDS
Connecticut, the
states affiliate of the National SAFE KIDS Campaign. Connecticut SAFE KIDS
coordinates childhood injury efforts by individuals, public and private agencies,
organizations, and businesses.
- Violence Prevention Project. Begun in
1991 to provide conflict resolution skills to inner city youth, it has evolved into an
education and outreach partnership addressing the prevention of child abuse, youth
interpersonal violence, youth suicide, and domestic violence.
- Injury
Free Coalition for Kids of Hartford Injury Free is part of a
national injury prevention program based in Hartford. The overall goal
of our project is to decrease childhood injury by altering the manner in
which two Hartford neighborhoods (Frog Hollow and Blue Hills) think
about and approach child safety. In order to accomplish this goal we are
recruiting and organizing residents and community organizations into a
neighborhood based child safety coalition who then collaborate with our
staff to implement injury prevention activities.
- Public Policy
The
IPC is committed to public policy as a vehicle to advance the field of injury and
violence prevention. Whether the objective is violence prevention or traffic safety,
public policy instigates changes in human behavior and technology that reduce the
incidence and severity of injury. IPC advocacy has resulted in passage of safety laws
involving bicycle helmets, car seats, and assault weapons. In recognition of their work
involving graduate licensure for teenage drivers, three IPC staff were named as 1996
Traffic Safety Leaders by the national Advocates for Highway Safety.
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