Connecticut is approaching gun violence as a public health issue. That means we are collecting data about firearm injuries and deaths and using research to drive policy. We’re funding prevention programs and promoting safe gun storage. Working with community organizations, municipalities, and other state agencies, we want to make a lasting impact.
what ct
is doing
Supporting Prevention
Strategies Statewide
The Connecticut Department of Public Health is specifically supporting prevention strategy initiatives that include:
Increasing quality of education through staff training, and providing social-emotional learning programming and access to mental health services for students.
Promoting healthy family relationships through teen father and young mother support programs.
Strengthening skills for youth and young adults through conflict management and job skills training.
Connecting young people to trusted adults through mentoring and after-school programs.
Intervening to lessen harm and prevent future risk through hospital-based violence intervention programs (HVIP) and street outreach.
Safe Storage Saves Lives
Connecticut law requires all firearms to be stored securely any time they are not in an owner’s immediate control.
Why is safe storage important?
- Safe storage is part of responsible gun ownership.
- Keeping guns locked in a safe or cabinet reduces he likelihood of accidental shootings, including suicide.
- Every year, 360 children in the U.S. unintentionally shoot themselves or someone else after gaining access to a firearm
Learn more. Download the Department of Public Health’s (DPH) Firearm Safety Guide (PDF).
DPH often has free firearm storage safes available. Email to inquire: DPH-OFIPSAFES@CT.GOV
