Enhancing Safety & Reducing Fatalities in U.S. National Parks: An Evaluation of Injury Trends and Policy Implications in the Ten Most Visited Parks
Martinez B, Patel H, Chin B, Cruz F, awan MU, Nasef H, Elkbuli A. 2023. Enhancing Safety & Reducing Fatalities in U.S. National Parks: An Evaluation of Injury Trends and Policy Implications in the Ten Most Visited Parks. Injury. :1-20
ABSTRACT: Introduction: National parks in the United States experience a significant number of annual visits, and with increasing popularity, injuries are expected to rise. This study aims to assess fatal injuries in the top ten most visited U.S. national parks from 2013 to 2022 to improve current policies and develop effective prevention strategies.... Conclusion: This study found the highest number of total injuries occurring in summer; however, winter presented a higher risk per visitor. Slips and falls were the most common cause of injuries, requiring targeted safety measures. Males in the 35-44 age group reported the highest fatality rates. These findings highlight the necessity for improved monitoring and reporting to better understand injury causes and formulate specific, evidence-based policies for prevention.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Martinez, Brian; Patel, Heli; Chin, Brian; Cruz, Francis; awan, Muhammad; Nasef, Hazem; Elkbuli, Adel
- Units
- ACAD , GLAC , GRCA , GRSM , GRTE , OLYM , ROMO , YELL , YOSE , ZION
- Keywords
- Fatalities, Injuries, Intervention, National Park Service, National Parks, Prevention, social science