Cass and Clay Counties residents invited to free events offering practical tools for suicide prevention and safer homes

Fargo, North Dakota – The Cass and Clay Counties Suicide Prevention Coalition is preparing to hold two free community events aimed at giving residents practical information they can use to recognize warning signs, support people who may be struggling and make their homes safer.

The events are being organized in connection with National Suicide Prevention Month, which is observed throughout September. However, Fargo Cass Public Health emphasized that efforts to prevent suicide and support mental health conversations remain important throughout the entire year.

Both events are open to the community at no cost, and advance registration is not required.

The first gathering will take place Wednesday, August 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the main parking lot at Fargo Cass Public Health, located at 1240 25th St. S. in Fargo.

The prevention event will take place alongside the Fargo Cass Public Health Food Truck Event. Organizers say the combination will allow residents to stop for lunch while also learning about steps they can take to recognize risks and support people experiencing a crisis.

Second event will focus on lethal means safety

A second event is planned for Thursday, September 24, from noon until 1:30 p.m. at the Clay County Law Enforcement Center, located at 911 11th St. N. in Moorhead.

That gathering will feature a Lethal Means Panel Discussion. Lethal means safety involves creating time and distance between a person experiencing a crisis and items that could be used to cause serious harm.

“We know that putting time and space between a suicidal person and lethal means can save lives,” stated Abby Lange, FCPH Health Promotion Director. “These events will give families and community members practical tools they can use to create safer environments and support someone who may be struggling.”

Organizers are encouraging community members to attend either event to learn more about the role individuals and families can play in prevention.

Among the topics covered will be how to recognize warning signs that may indicate someone is struggling or at risk. Attendees will also receive information about how to begin a conversation when they are worried about another person’s well-being.

The events will address steps people can take within their homes as well. Participants can learn about safely storing and disposing of medications and using firearm trigger locks. Free trigger locks will be available at both community events.

Another area of focus will be creating a safety plan, which can help someone prepare specific steps and sources of support to use during a crisis.

The coalition’s goal is to provide information that residents can put into practice rather than limiting the events to general discussion. By helping people recognize warning signs, communicate with someone who may be struggling and create safer surroundings, organizers hope community members will feel better prepared to respond when concerns arise.

Both the August event in Fargo and the September panel discussion in Moorhead are free and require no registration.