Safe Storage to Save Lives
VCOE’s suicide education series returns with workshop focusing on safe storage of lethal means
Tuesday, March 17, marked the second workshop in the “Awareness to Action: Suicide Prevention is Everybody’s Business” series. This session, Lethal Means Safety — Safe Storage of Firearms and Medications, was presented by the Portland VA Suicide Prevention team and hosted by Clark’s Veterans Center of Excellence (VCOE). The workshop offered practical strategies to increase safety and save lives.
Ashley Taylor, Community Engagement and Partnerships Coordinator for the Portland VA, kicked off the presentation by clarifying that the conversation is not about gun control or politics, but about safe storage of firearms and other lethal means.
“Lethal means” refers to objects that may be used by individuals experiencing a suicidal crisis, such as firearms (which are often the most lethal), medications, ropes, cords, or other sharp objects. When these items are easily accessible, they can become especially dangerous.
Firearms are used in approximately half of all suicide deaths, and they are highly lethal. They are also a leading cause of death for youth under the age of 18, underscoring that this conversation centers on promoting safety and saving lives.
Delaying Access
The workshop emphasized reducing suicide risk by limiting or delaying access to lethal means. Suicidal ideation can escalate quickly, with many individuals moving from thought to action within an hour. Most people experiencing a crisis are ambivalent — they don’t want to die but want relief from emotional or physical pain. Creating barriers of time and distance between a person and lethal means can be lifesaving.
Ashley shared a video introducing the concept of “Lock, Limit, and Temporarily Remove,” which encourages safely securing, limiting access to, or temporarily removing firearms from the immediate environment.
Increasing Time and Space
Jeremiah Duff, Suicide Prevention Coordinator for the Portland VA, expanded on the importance of increasing time and space between suicidal intent and access to lethal means. Even small delays can significantly reduce risk while also increasing the safety of everyone in the household.
Time and space can also be emotional — not just physical. Personal reminders such as family photos, children’s drawings, or notes of affirmation can provide a meaningful pause. Sometimes, a reminder that someone is loved and valued can help interrupt the moment and prevent harm.
Practical steps to create this separation may include asking a friend to temporarily store firearms, disassembling firearms and storing parts separately, or locking firearms in a safe and having a trusted person hold the key or combination. Presenters also recommended checking with local law enforcement agencies about safe storage programs or speaking with a local gun shop about available resources.
The workshop also emphasized the importance of normalizing conversations about times of crisis within one’s circle of support. Experiencing difficult times isn’t shameful, and open, honest communication can help others provide support.
Although much of the session focused on firearms, presenters also shared guidance on medication safety. This includes taking inventory of all medications in the home (prescribed and over-the-counter) and keeping only what is necessary. Limiting quantities and identifying high-risk medications can help reduce potential harm.
Upcoming Workshops in the Series
These sessions are valuable not only for the Veteran or Military-affiliated community but also for all communities. If you are interested in obtaining the Zoom link to attend virtually, please email kaiello@clark.edu.
SAFETY PLANS — When and How to Have One
Tuesday, April 14, 3–4 pm GHL 213 or via Zoom
This training will review how to create a Safety Plan. A Safety Plan can help identify personal coping strategies and sources of support, giving suicidal thoughts time to decrease and become more manageable. During a crisis, it can be hard to think clearly.
POSTVENTION — Support for After a Suicide
Tuesday, May 12, 3–4 pm GHL or via Zoom
Suicide prevention is a commonly used and understood term. However, not everyone recognizes suicide postvention. Suicide postvention builds upon prevention efforts by providing immediate and ongoing support to those impacted by a suicide loss. Postvention is critical for healing after suicide .
About Clark's Veterans Center of Excellence
The Clark College Veterans Center of Excellence is dedicated to making Clark College the first choice for veterans, active duty, and military-affiliated students. The center engages, supports, and empowers students to achieve their educational and professional goals by coordinating comprehensive services that address academic, financial, physical, and social needs. Offerings include tutoring, academic supplies, quiet study spaces, a computer lab with printers, practical workshops, and more. Learn more at Veterans Center of Excellence (clark.edu).
Story by Malena Goerl, Staff Writer, Communications and Marketing