Here are some tips to help you keep yourself or a loved one safe:

1. LEARN THE RISK FACTORS AND WARNING SIGNS FOR SUICIDE
The risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.

• Emotional crisis due to job loss, break-up, legal trouble, loss of loved one, or newly diagnosed illness
• Major change in behavior: depression, violence, anger/aggression, or alcohol or drug use
• Recent impulsiveness, risk-taking, acting reckless
• Expressing a desire to die or end their life
• Putting affairs in order, giving away prized possessions, or impulsive purchase of a firearm
• Withdrawing from things they used to enjoy

2. KEEP GUNS SECURELY STORED AT ALL TIMES
A key principle of firearm safety is to keep guns securely stored at all times. This is especially important when someone who is having thoughts of suicide may be able to access them. Keeping firearms in locked gun cases, using gun locks, and storing firearms in a certified gun safe are key steps that can prevent unwanted access to firearms. As an additional safety precaution, consider storing the gun safe key in a separate location outside of the home, such as with friends or family.

3. HAVE A CONVERSATION ABOUT SUICIDE PREVENTION.
When you are worried that someone may be having thoughts of suicide, the only way to really know is to have a conversation about suicide. This can be a difficult and often uncomfortable conversation, but it is vital to talk openly and ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?” By talking about suicide you are not putting the idea in their head.

4. CONSIDER ADDITIONAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS SUCH AS STORING A FIREARM OUTSIDE THE HOME
Putting time and distance between a suicidal person and a gun can save a life. To keep yourself, your family, or your friends safe when experiencing thoughts of suicide, one of the most effective steps to take is to limit access to firearms or securing firearms safely outside of the home. Family members, shooting clubs, or gun shops may be able to store them until the situation improves.

Gun Safety Tips

• Treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
• Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
• Be sure of your target and what surrounds it.
• Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you’re ready to shoot.
• Store firearms and ammunition separately and safely.
• Point a firearm only at something you intend to shoot.
• Unload firearm when it is not in use. Leave action open; carry firearm in a case and unloaded to and from the shooting area.
• Don’t run, jump, or climb with a loaded firearm. Pull a firearm toward you by the butt, not the muzzle.
• Don’t drink alcoholic beverages or use drugs before or during shooting.
• Safely check the barrel and action for any obstructions, and only use proper ammunition