SAFETY STAND DOWN
2026 SUICIDE PREVENTION & AWARENESS
WEEK THREE
Knowing the Signs
The 2026 Suicide Prevention & Awareness Safety Stand Down continues into week three: Recognizing when someone may be struggling is a critical step in prevention.
This week provides guidance on identifying behavioral, emotional, and physical indicators that may signal someone needs support.
If you have any questions, please reach out to your Peer Support leads.
WEEK THREE LESSON PLAN
Your leadership in normalizing these conversations helps break stigma and ensures members feel seen and supported. Being aware of these signs can help save a life.
Set aside time during the shift or training this week to:
Review the Week 3 video and materials together
Discuss common signs of stress, burnout, or crisis
Talk through real-life scenarios and how you would respond
Stand Down materials, including videos, discussion prompts, and printable resources, are available HERE.
WATCH THE VIDEO
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MAKE MENTAL HEALTH A PRIORITY
No matter how tough, no one is immune to the anguish that can build from a career of difficult calls.
All too often, we keep the anguish buried inside, afraid to be labeled as weak or unfit. "The 'suck it up, buttercup' mentality believes ... all you need to do is rub some dirt in it and get back out there." The thing is, the same line was used against SCBA, seat belts, turnouts and other safety equipment and practices that are saving firefighter lives. As with any injury, allowing this anguish to fester can lead to unhealthy habits, behaviors, and, sometimes, death. Mental health is medical health.