Counsel on Access to Lethal Means

Take A Few Minutes to C.A.L.M. Counsel on Access to Lethal Means

Three specific steps: 1. Tell parents that you believe their adolescent is at risk for suicide (and why you have made this determination) 2. Explain that they can reduce the risk by reducing their child’s access to lethal means, particularly firearms. 3. Discuss specific steps they can take to remove or at least reduce access to firearms and other lethal means Comparative Lethality of Means Ohio - 1999 - 2005

Firearms The use of a firearm leaves very little possibility for intervention or rescue. The presence of a firearm in the home increases the likelihood of suicide in that home by 5x compared to a home without a firearm – regardless of whether or not the firearm is properly stored. (Kellermann, AL, 2003) Guns are the method used in 88% of male teen suicides and 12% of female teen suicides. (Kellermann, AL, 2003)  The MOST EFFECTIVE means for reducing suicide with a firearm is to remove all firearms from the home and environment  It is not unusual for men to have firearms in the home that others are not aware of  DON’T however believe that the suicidal person does not know if or where weapons are stored.  When discussing these issues, focus on the risk, not the firearm  If the family is reluctant to remove the firearm permanently, discuss a temporary move for a specified period of time  Police Departments - Most will accept firearms that you want to have destroyed - Some will accept firearms on a temporary basis. - ALWAYS check on their policies and NEVER bring a firearm to the police without talking to them first.  If moving the firearms to someone else’s home provide specific instructions regarding who, when and how the firearm may be returned  If removal is not an option, make the following suggestions: - Move all firearms to new locations - Store all firearms unloaded and locked - Any ammunition should be stored locked and separate from the firearms

Medications and Poisons - Prescription medications should be limited in number to non-lethal doses - Any medicines or other poisons not being used should be safely disposed of - If uncertain regarding the toxicity of specific medications or other products contact the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. - Any other potentially lethal products should be removed from the home or moved and kept locked

Other Means It may be more difficult to limit access to other means. However, it is important to take whatever steps are indicated to reduce access when feasible if the individual talks about using any of these. These could include:  Access to cars or other vehicles  Access to ropes or ligatures (hanging is the leading means for those under 15)  Access to alcohol and other drugs

Supervision Due to the difficulties in limiting access to lethal means, those considered actively suicidal are perhaps best protected by not being left alone. This requires having a number of caregivers available to share this difficult role along with the support and guidance of professionals regarding when to initiate and terminate this close supervision.

Help is always available. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).