JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- After an increase in suicides that was reported between 2019 and the previous year, the U.S. Air Force is taking measures to prevent future incidents with Time-Based Prevention. This is a unique method focusing heavily on the “means” of suicide rather than the “why”.
Suicide remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. Air Force, with personally-owned firearms being present in 70 percent of total force suicides. Any barriers in place to prevent the intended suicide method can be successful in stopping the course of events.
To implement these barriers and mitigate suicides, the U.S. Air Force is distributing over 150,000 firearm cable-style locks to Airmen around the U.S. as part of a home-safety initiative across the force.
Janis Doss, the Violence Prevention Integrator here at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., has personally distributed more than 900 cable-style gunlocks already.
“I felt it was a priority to get these out, especially because of what’s going on in terms of isolation with the pandemic,” said Doss. “People are having a difficult time right now, and these locks can prevent a bad situation from becoming much worse.”
These cable-style gun locks are just one of three types of methods stressed within TBP. The three recommended methods for safe firearm storage are in safes, locks or outside the home; also known as SLO.
“That five- to ten-minute window where someone plans to follow through with suicide is what we’re working with,” said Doss. “Using locks, separating guns from ammunition and safe storage all cause distraction, giving the person more time to decide against causing self-harm which is crucial.”
While TPB methods seek to answer the means of suicide used within the U.S. Air Force, Doss stresses the role each of us plays in prevention.
“We can’t be afraid to help others by asking questions,” said Doss. “Commanders, supervisors, friends, spouses and coworkers are on the frontlines. These are the people who know us best.”
The signs of mental distress can be subtle when compared to signs of physical distress. However, a watchful eye can be enough to spot these subtle changes in someone’s behavior and act on it according to Doss.
“All it takes is the willingness to sit someone down, look them in the eye, and ask, ‘how are you doing?’,” said Doss. “Showing genuine concern may be enough for that person to reach out, then we can provide them with the help and resources they need.”
There are multiple resources on base that someone can be referred to, confidentially and discretely, should they seek help. Chaplains, first sergeants, and Behavioral Health all provide a means of professional assistance to aid those in a state of distress.
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Michael Creegan, 87th Air Base Wing first sergeant, recommends the “ask, care, escort” method in such situations.
“Being members of the military, we deal with more stressful situations than the common person, and that can take a toll,” said Creegan. “We have to be able to ask those important questions and get people the help they need through the proper channels; avoiding a potentially life-saving conversation is not an option.”
If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide, you can seek help and information by visiting the Joint Base MDL webpage or calling (609) 754-4724 to connect with installation-wide resources.