Reducing deaths due to attractive nuisances

Weisman Art Museum - N. Carlson

This past Thursday, October 8, 2015,  I had the privilege or discussion several topics of interest with members the the University of Minnesota and Hennepin County at the Weisman Art Museum.  The participants were able to choose from 21 discussion topics for approximately 45 minutes each.  For the last topic, our group discussed the problem of physical structures that are attractive nuisances.  Playing and exploring these structures frequently result in injury or death usually to youth and young adults.

Ideas:

Provide matching grants to communities or local neighborhood groups abating attractive nuisance hazards.  These include dangerous abandoned buildings and structures of heights greater the 4 stories.

Skateboard damage prevention - N. Carlson

Examine how to generally apply the lessons learned from the construction of skateboard parks.  These added features make skateboarding less practical have worked to reduce damage to public property and  injuries to skateboarders.

We also explored the neurochemistry of risk taking in teenage youths and young adults.  What rights of passage or other rituals can be used to provide the same thrill of danger and accomplishment.  One person took up skydiving to experience the needed adrenaline rush.  After 17 dives the person came away less than satisfied as the experience didn't have enough danger.

How can the energy of this fearless behavior be channeled toward some positive benefit to society? Can we use the neurochemistry studies from Jane McGonigal’s book, Reality is Broken, and create a positive addiction to behaviors that are challenging and beneficial.

Examine the architectural features of German buildings that prevent urban exploring.  Apply these designs to structures combining utility and architectural aesthetics.

Make the Call - Washington Ave. Bridge - N. Carlson

Redesign the railing on the Washington Avenue Bridge to make it difficult to jump but not significantly limit the sight line and view of the Mississippi River. 

Several studies suggest that making the irrational behavior of jumping off a bridge more difficult will reduce deaths due to suicide as these individuals are less likely to try other means of suicide. 

• Suicide Barriers are Effective
• Guidelines for Suicide Hotspots

The dangers of Urban Exploring - 4 min.