Injury and Violence Prevention

This page has been automatically translated from English. MSDH has not reviewed this translation and is not responsible for any inaccuracies.

Mississippi's death rate due to injuries, both intentional and unintentional, greatly exceeds the national rate. Despite evidence that most injuries are preventable, they continue to constitute one of the most tragic and costly public health problems to date. In the United States, nearly 192,900 people die from violence and injuries each year.

Motor Vehicle Safety

Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of injury-related deaths in the state, and Mississippi has one of the highest per-capita motor vehicle fatality rates in the nation. The Division of Injury and Violence Prevention works collaboratively with the following agencies and other interested parties to promote safety for drivers and passengers in motor vehicles:

Car Seats and Child Safety

The Division of Injury and Violence Prevention is currently working to increase education and awareness regarding child passenger safety, including car seat use and information about the Booster Seat Law in Mississippi.

Distracted Driving

Cell phone use has been directly linked to increased risk while operating a motor vehicle. Driver distraction is involved in 16 percent of fatal crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Our phone-free driving tips can help you make the road safer for you and others.

Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety

Pedestrian and bicycle safety activities are held in locations across Mississippi. MSDH staff conduct bicycle rodeos, classroom presentations, and community presentations where bicycle helmets (subject to availability) and safety information is distributed. MSDH partners with the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

Fire Prevention

The MSDH Fire-Related Injury Prevention Program offers fire prevention and safety presentations and participates in planning safety events for schools. To contact program staff, call (601) 206-1559. The Mississippi State Fire Marshal offers free smoke alarm installation in your home for selected counties in the state. To find out if you qualify, visit the State Fire Marshal's web site.

Water Safety

When the weather gets hot, it's natural to want to be in or near the water to stay cool. But along with water fun, there are safety precautions that need to be taken when enjoying swimming pools, hot tubs or recreational boating.

Contact

For more information about the Division of Injury and Violence Prevention, or one of its programs, please contact:

The Division of Injury and Violence Prevention
Mississippi State Department of Health
715 Pear Orchard Road-Plaza 1
Post Office Box 1700
Jackson, MS 39216
601-206-1559 office
601-899-0154 fax

Last reviewed on Jun 23, 2017 request edits

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Mississippi State Department of Health 570 East Woodrow Wilson Dr Jackson, MS 39216 866‑HLTHY4U Contact and information

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