SAFETY STAND DOWN
2026 SUICIDE PREVENTION & AWARENESS
WEEK FOUR
See Something, Say Something, Do Something
As we enter Week 4 of the 2026 Suicide Prevention & Awareness Safety Stand Down, we move from knowing the signs to knowing what to do when we see them. Recognizing that something is wrong is important, but it only becomes meaningful when we're willing to act.
For firefighters, that can be difficult. We're often taught to handle the job, push through, and take care of ourselves. Asking for help can feel uncomfortable, and approaching a colleague about something personal can feel even harder. Just know, you don't have to be a mental health professional to help someone. You just have to be willing to start the conversation.
We encourage you to lead these conversations and create space for members to engage openly.
WEEK FOUR LESSON PLAN
Start the Conversation and set aside time during your shift or training this week to:
Watch the Week 4 video together and discuss what stood out.
Practice starting the conversation. What will you say if you noticed a colleague wasn't themselves?
Talk through what comes next.
Discuss how we can listen, support, and help connect a member to additional resources when needed.
Review the resources available through your department, peer support program, and crisis services.
You don't need the perfect words. You don't need to solve someone's problems. And you don't need to have all the answers. Sometimes the most important actions you can do are notice, ask, listen, and stay with someone long enough to help them take the next step.
Stand Down materials, including videos, discussion prompts, and printable resources, are available HERE.
WATCH THE VIDEO
My Story: I Survived Jumping Off the Golden Gate Bridge
Published: October 10, 2023
Featuring: Kevin Hines
Video courtesy of: Kevin Hines
Original Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-lkZG7IYeQ
For firefighters, looking out for one another is part of the job. But sometimes the person who needs support is the one standing beside us.
Kevin Hines is a best-selling author, global public speaker, award-winning documentary filmmaker, and mental health advocate who shares his story of hope, healing and recovery. In 2000, Kevin attempted to take his own life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. He survived and has since dedicated his life to helping others recognize that even in our darkest moments, there is a path forward.
Kevin's story reminds us that seeing someone struggle is only the first step; having the courage to say something and offer support can make a difference.
As firefighters, we know how to respond when someone else needs help. The challenge is recognizing when a brother or sister may be struggling behind the scenes and knowing when to step in.
Watch Kevin's story. Start the conversation. Check on your people. And remember: there is always a reason to be here tomorrow.
WEEK FOUR: Social Media Toolkit
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When a fellow firefighter seems withdrawn, exhausted, or “not themselves,” don’t wait. Start the conversation, listen without judgment, and connect them to help. Your support can be the lifeline that gets them through.
Learn how to recognize the warning signs and take action at HealingOurOwn.org
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When a fellow firefighter seems withdrawn, exhausted or “not themselves,” don’t wait. Start the conversation. Your support can be the lifeline that gets them through.
Learn how to recognize the warning signs and take action at HealingOurOwn.org
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When a crew member is struggling, your support can save a life. You don’t need to have all the answers. Just being ready to ask, listen, and help them connect to care can make the difference.
Learn how to recognize the signs and stand by your brothers and sisters at HealingOurOwn.org
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When a crew member is struggling, your support can save a life. You don’t need to have all the answers. Just being ready to ask, listen, and help them connect to care can make the difference.
Learn how to support your brothers and sisters at HealingOurOwn.org
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No firefighter should carry the emotional weight of the job alone. Confidential, firefighter-focused support is available 24/7.
If you’re struggling or you’re concerned about a brother or sister, find resources at HealingOurOwn.org.
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No firefighter should carry the emotional weight of the job alone. Confidential, firefighter-focused support is available 24/7.
If you’re struggling or you’re concerned about a brother or sister, find resources at HealingOurOwn.org.
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.