11 24TH ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE Congratulations to the PEI Police Association for continuing their good work again, in producing their 24th annual crime prevention guide. This year the Association has picked ‘Suicide Prevention Awareness’ as their topic for the guide. The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) provides information and resources to try to reduce the suicide rate and minimize the harmful consequences of suicidal behaviour. Sadly, statistics tell us that approximately 11 people will end their lives by suicide today in Canada. Awareness is essential to changing this behaviour. Firstly we must understand why people consider suicide and attempt to take their own lives. Suicide is preventable. Many factors and circumstances can contribute to someone’s decision to end his or her life. Firstly we need to recognize the warning signs and learn the importance of talking about suicide. Pain isn't always obvious, but most suicidal people show some signs that they are thinking about suicide. If you see even one warning sign, step in or speak up. The following are some of the signs to look for; anger, reckless behaviour, putting affairs in order and giving away possessions, changes in sleep patterns, increased alcohol and drug use, increased anxiety, talking about wanting to die, feeling of hopelessness, depressed or being trapped. If you know of someone exhibiting the signs above and wanting to end his/her life, here are some ways to get the conversation started; 1. Start the conversation. Mention the signs that prompted you to ask about suicide. This makes it clear that you are not asking ‘out of the blue,’ and makes it more difficult for the person to deny that something is bothering them. 2. Listen to the reasons the person has for both living and dying. Validate that they are considering both options and underscore that living is an option for them. Let the person know you care. Letting them know that you take their situation seriously, and you are genuinely concerned about them, will go a long way in your effort to support them. 3. Ask the person if they have access to any weapons, medications, etc., and help remove them from the vicinity. (Another friend, family member or law enforcement agency may be needed to assist with this.) Do not put yourself in danger; if you are concerned about your own safety, call 911. Create a safety plan together. Ask the person what will help keep them safe until they meet with a professional. 4. Provide the person with the resources you have come prepared with. If you feel the situation is critical, take the person to a nearby emergency room or walk-in psychiatric crisis clinic or call 9-1-1. Take the time to learn what to do now, so you're ready to be there for a friend or loved one when it matters most. People who contemplate suicide are not alone. There are many resources available to assess, treat and intervene. Crisis lines, counselors, intervention programs and more are available to those who ponder suicide as a way out, as well as to the person experiencing the emotional crisis. Suicide is a serious public health issue that affects us all. Help us raise awareness and reduce the number of suicides by educating the public and changing the way people think and talk about suicide. J. David Poirier Chief of Police Summerside Police Services MESSAGE FROM SUMMERSIDE’S CHIEF OF POLICE
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