The matrix (see below) looks at types of data (knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs; risks and contributing factors; fatal and nonfatal injury outcomes; and an inventory of local policies and activities) in terms of what specific information is needed, why it is important, and where the data can be located.

Each county's multidisciplinary Safe Communities Coalition used the matrix to review and interpret its data. DHHS provided assistance in accessing Department of Transportation (DOT) data on fatal crashes, as well as on high crash intersections. Givens found that "the DOT data on high crash intersections have been the most compelling and have catalyzed immediate action." Several counties prioritized the most dangerous intersections and brought them to the attention of the state DOT, which responded with its own review and, in many cases, improvements, including new signage, bridge repairs, better lighting, and elimination of passing lanes. Givens reports that "it was very exciting to see the power of the data as a convincing tool. It helped the counties make a strong case for these investigations and ultimately produced tangible changes that we hope will have an immediate impact on fatalities and injuries. We all believe that this project has been well worth the time and effort put into it."

For more information on the North Carolina Safe Communities Assessment, contact Jeanne Givens, Injury Prevention Branch, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, P.O. Box 29605, Raleigh, NC 27626-0605. Telephone: (919) 715-6448; fax: (919) 733-9575; e-mail: Jeanne_Givens@mail.ehnr.state.nc.us.