Year: 2010 Source: MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, v.59, no.47, (December 3, 2010), p.1546-1549 SIEC No: 20101204

To describe the characteristics of & trends in suicides in American national parks, the Centers for Disease Control & the National Park Service analysed reports of suicides & attempted suicides occurring in the parks during 2003-2009. 84 national parks reported 286 suicide events, 68% of which were fatal. The two most common methods were firearms & falls. Consistent with national patterns, 83% of suicides were among males. A comprehensive, multicomponent approach is recommended to prevent park suicide events, including enhanced training for park employees, site-specific barriers, & collaboration with communities. (9 refs.) JA