Lethal Means Safety for a Family Member or Friend

There are many things you can do to help a suicidal person put time and space between themselves and a method of suicide (such as guns or drugs). This lowers the chances that they will impulsively harm themselves. It also gives them breathing room to consider alternatives for what might be next. We call this lethal means safety.

If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call or text 988, or chat 988lifeline.org. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 to listen, support, and help.

If you are concerned that someone you care about is considering suicide, there are resources here to help you prevent this person from accessing lethal means. This lowers the chances that they will impulsively harm themselves.

This guidance is for family members concerned about a loved one who may be suicidal, with a focus on safe firearm storage or disposal. (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health)

Here are some resources for parents and caregivers to start the discussion about firearm safety with their families. (Project ChildSafe)

You can use the search tool from Project ChildSafe to identify local law enforcement agencies where you can obtain a free gun lock. 

Here is information about safe gun storage laws. (Giffords Law Center)

Drug overdoses can sometimes be intentional or happen if someone isn’t sure if they want to live. Here are some ways to keep your loved one safe if they use drugs. (Prevent Overdose RI)