Colorado ER Doctor Urges Firearm Safety as State Grapples wiht High Suicide Rate
AURORA, CO – Colorado continues to face a concerningly high suicide rate, prompting emergency room physicians and public health officials to emphasize the critical role of reducing access to firearms for individuals at risk. While a prior suicide attempt is a significant risk factor for future attempts, data indicates that approximately 10% of those who survive an attempt ultimately die by suicide.Experts are now focusing on preventative measures, notably surrounding firearm access, as a key strategy to lower the state’s statistics.
Colorado’s struggle with suicide rates underscores a national crisis, but the state’s proactive approach – including research initiatives and community-based programs – offers a potential roadmap for other areas facing similar challenges.A central tenet of this approach is recognizing that reducing access to lethal means, specifically firearms, can substantially decrease the risk of suicide completion.
The recommendation isn’t about restricting gun ownership, but rather promoting responsible storage and temporary removal of firearms during times of crisis. Secure, locked firearm storage limits unauthorized or unsupervised access. For firearm owners experiencing suicidal thoughts, handing over the key or PIN to a locking device to a trusted family member or friend is a viable option. Numerous firearm locking devices are available to suit various home situations, and temporary, voluntary storage options at local gun shops are also increasingly accessible.
“We all have a role in preventing firearm injury,” says a physician involved in firearm suicide prevention programs in Colorado. Their work focuses on implementing evidence-based programs in clinical, research, and community settings.
Resources are available for both individuals struggling with mental health and those concerned about loved ones. The national 988 hotline provides 24/7 free and confidential support via phone, text, or web chat. Additionally, several suicide awareness walks are planned across Colorado in the fall of 2025, and workshops are offered at the CU medical campus to train community leaders in building effective firearm suicide prevention programs. More data on secure storage can be found at pausetoprotect.org and temporary off-site storage options at cdphe.colorado.gov.
