ABSTRACT

This study was aimed to evaluate and discuss socio-demog-raphic characteristics, frequency and origin of the deaths due to fall from a height in Adana. Records of Public Prosecutor Office and death certificates re-lated 4010 forensic deaths, between 2003-2007, were investiga-ted retrospectively and 315 deaths due to fall from a height ta-ken in the scope of the study. Of all cases, 71.11% were male and the majority was between the 41-50 years. Overwhelming majority (81.59%) of cases were accidental falls while 14.92% had a suicidal origin. Furthermore, 36.50% of cases occurred in summer season. Places’ of falls were generally balcony, win-dow and roof of apartments (house or workplace). Out of all cases only 12.38% underwent an autopsy procedure.

In conclusion, considering deaths due to fall from a height, which are mostly secondary to preventable accidents, educatio-nal programs organized in order to increase the awareness of fa-milies, individuals from all age groups employers and additio-nal safety measures to be taken will help a considerable decrea-se in such deaths.

Keywords: Fall from a height, death, accident, autopsy