Studies show that individuals are three times more likely to die by suicide when firearms are accessible; and the majority of people who die by suicide use firearms (61%) or poisons (19%). Limiting access to firearms and poisons for a person in crisis is an essential strategy for preventing suicide.
To help families safety proof their homes, our Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) is offering free trigger locks and locking medication boxes that fit a wide variety of firearms as part of the new “Lock and Talk Northern Virginia” program.
Lock and Talk Program
Lock and Talk, a safe storage program, is part of a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention being implemented by the Wellness, Health Promotion and Prevention program of the CSB. It is intended to:
- Prevent suicides by restricting access to firearms and poisons during a mental health crisis.
- Educate the community about how to recognize and respond to warning signs.
- Encourage others to pass on knowledge.
Promoting safe and responsible care of lethal means, while encouraging community conversations around mental wellness, are vital to the CSB’s mission of suicide prevention and wellness promotion.
Get Free Locks for Guns and Medicine
The CSB prevention team is distributing free cable and trigger locks and locking medication boxes . Gun locks and lockboxes include information on safe handling and messaging, and tips to secure firearms and medications. The best strategy for protecting a person at risk is to remove firearms from the home until a mental health crisis is resolved.
Email csbprevention@fairfaxcounty.gov for more information on obtaining free locks.
Talking About Suicide is Vital
Talking about suicide can save lives, reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking behaviors. Suicide can be prevented – learn the warning signs (aprender las señales que indican peligro).
If you or someone you care about may be at risk of suicide, reach out for help right away. Call PRS CrisisLink: 703-527-4077 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text “CONNECT” to 855-11.
If a situation is immediately life-threatening, call or text 9-1-1. Ask for a crisis intervention team officer.
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