The widespread incidence of gun violence impacts the well-being of us all, especially our children. The State of Connecticut is taking a stand to end this public health crisis and protect our youth and most vulnerable populations.
Gun
Violence
Is A Public
Health
Crisis
Firearm violence has a negative impact on our communities, and individuals’ health and well-being. Every other day [link to DPH dashboard] someone in Connecticut is killed by a gun. In our state, guns are the second leading cause of traumatic death (next to motor vehicle traffic deaths) for youth under 18 years of age in Connecticut. On a national level, more than 46,728 people died from firearm-related injuries in 2023. In addition to changing lives forever, gun violence comes at an economic cost of more than $557 billion a year, costing our state money and impacting youth lives.
The magnitude of this crisis demands a public health approach. The Department of Public Health’s Office of Firearm Injury Prevention (OFIP) is committed to preventing and reducing firearm-involved injury and death. Through community-based interventions and collective partnerships, OFIP addresses the conditions and circumstances that impact community violence. Together we can help save lives—and heal our future.
Help Is Available
There are a number of organizations in Connecticut focused on gun violence, and factors associated with gun violence, through prevention and intervention. Find resources and supports in your area.
What Is Connecticut Doing?
Firearm violence has the potential to have a very large ripple effect in affected communities, particularly in underserved communities. The Connecticut Department of Public Health’s newly formed Office of Firearm Injury Prevention (OFIP) seeks to strengthen community-based interventions, build collective partnerships, and promote gun safety.
