This week’s focus is on helping members understand how daily habits directly impact mental health, stress management, and long-term well-being. We encourage you to lead these conversations and create space for members to engage openly.

Set aside time during the shift or training this week to:

• Watch the Week 1 overview video together

• Discuss ways to improve sleep, nutrition, or physical activity

• Identify one realistic habit change members can commit to this week

Small, consistent changes can make a meaningful difference.

As we continue the 2026 Safety Stand Down, we move into the theme of Building a Strong Support Network. Connection is one of the strongest protective factors we have.

This week focuses on strengthening relationships with our peers, our family, and the broader fire service community, and reinforcing that no one needs to navigate challenges alone.

Set aside time during shift or training this week to:

• Listen to this week’s featured video together, or individually

• Use the discussion prompts to talk about support systems within your department

• Encourage members to identify at least one person they can reach out to when needed

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.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

As we enter Week 4 of the Safety Stand Down, we focus on acting, and we learn about how we, as peers, can Help Someone Needing Support. Knowing what to say and how to say it can make all the difference. We encourage you to lead these conversations and create space for members to engage openly.

This week is about equipping members with the confidence and tools to step in, start a conversation, and connect someone to help. Set aside time during the shift or training this week to:

• Watch this week’s video together 

• Practice starting a conversation using provided talking points 

• Review available resources, including peer support and crisis lines 

This week highlights the behavioral health resources available to firefighters, including clinician directories, national programs, and crisis support services. Connecting members to trusted, culturally competent care is essential.

Set aside time during the shift or training this week to:

• Review available clinical resources with your members 

• Share how to access care confidentially 

• Reinforce that seeking help is a sign of strength