Lock and Talk is a suicide prevention strategy designed to limit access to firearms, poisons, and medication from someone who may be at risk of suicide. It is part of a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention in Arlington County. Studies show that when firearms are accessible, individuals are more than three times likely to die by suicide and that the majority of people who die from suicide use firearms (61%) or poisons (19%). Limiting access for a person in crisis is an essential strategy in suicide prevention.
Lock and Talk goals are:
The best strategy for protecting a person at risk is to remove firearms from the home until a mental health crisis is resolved. However, when that is not possible, limiting access can help.
The Prevention office in the Child and Family Services Division can provide free cable and trigger locks for firearms, as well as locking medication boxes. These items include information on safe handling and messaging, and tips to secure firearms and medications.
For more information about Lock & Talk, to schedule a presentation, or to obtain firearm devices or medication lockboxes, contact Mark Perez.