In September 2023, I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF) launched a multi‑year Lethal Means Safety (LMS) Campaign to increase awareness and promote safe storage and handling of lethal means, including firearms and medications. This effort is not about restriction; it is about prevention through preparation. By creating safer environments during moments of crisis, we reduce the risk of suicide. The goal is simple: increase safety, reduce access, and protect lives.
Increasing time and space is a core component of LMS. The concept is straightforward: the more time and distance placed between a person in crisis and a lethal means, the greater the chance of survival. When someone is struggling, time and distance save lives. This approach emphasizes simple, voluntary actions that create a buffer during high‑stress moments – moments that are often brief, impulsive, and driven by intense emotion. By increasing time and space, we give the brain a chance to reset, allow individuals time to think and breathe, and create opportunities for support to intervene. Time gives a person the opportunity to choose life.
Lethal Means Safety (LMS) is an evidence‑based suicide‑prevention practice focused on securely storing or limiting access to lethal means – such as firearms, medications, or items that could be used for asphyxiation. By making these methods less accessible during moments of crisis, we reduce the likelihood of harm or death. The term lethal matters because some methods carry a far higher risk of fatality than others.
Many suicides and attempts occur during short‑term, high‑stress crises. Proper storage and safety practices create time and space, giving individuals the chance to pause, regain control, and seek support. Lethal means safety includes voluntary techniques, policies, and procedures that reduce access during periods of elevated risk. These steps help ensure that lethal means are removed or secured when stress is high and suicide risk increases.
While secure storage is strongly supported by research as an effective way to prevent both intentional and accidental injury or death, discussions about lethal means – particularly firearms – can be stigmatized and challenging to integrate into Marine Corps culture. Continued education and open communication are essential to shifting norms and strengthening safety.
Creating a Personal Storage Safety Plan
- Develop your own safety plan for storing lethal means securely.
- Use your support system – family, friends, or trusted peers—to help implement the plan or temporarily store firearms if needed.
- Consider all potential risks by asking: “Are there other means that could be harmful to me? How can I limit my access to them during stressful periods?”
Firearm Secure Storage
- Use cable locks to prevent loading or firing. Cable locks may be available through your installation, EPIC Specialist, or command Suicide Prevention Program Officer (SPPO).
- Store firearms at an installation or unit armory.
- Use off‑site storage options such as local police departments, gun shops, or shooting ranges.
- Lock firearms and secure the key in a separate lockbox or with a trusted individual until the crisis has passed.
- Follow all local and state laws regarding firearm registration and storage requirements.
- Learn more: Firearm Suicide Prevention & Lethal Means Safety – REACH (VA).
Medication Secure Storage
- Store medications safely to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse. Keep them locked and out of reach of children or others in the household.
- Dispose of expired or unneeded medications to reduce risk.
- Use military pharmacy disposal programs (find locations at tricare.mil/drugtakeback).
- If needed, ask a trusted person to dispense your medication during periods of increased stress.
Secure Storage Resources
- Lethal Means Safety Guide for Service Members and Families
- Leaders Suicide Prevention Safe Messaging Guide
- Communication Guide for Military Leaders and Support Providers
If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis or thoughts of self‑harm, reach out to a trusted person or a crisis support resource for immediate help. Call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The lifeline provides 24-hour confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Support is also available via live online chat here: 988 Lifeline Chat and Text.
Effective 16 July 2022:
Congress designated the number 988 as an easy to remember three-digit dialing, texting, and chat code for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
By dialing 988 and then pressing 1, callers will be connected with a counselor who understand the challenges Service Members and their loved ones face.
The 800 number (800-273-8255, press 1) will remain available, along with the online chat option Service Members can utilize at the Veterans Crisis Line.
MARADMIN 230/23
988 Lifeline
*988 Elements zip folder can be found here: 2023 Suicide Prevention Month Resources (usmc-mccs.org)
