Suicide prevention training offered

FALLBROOK – Statistics of suicide in San Diego County are alarming. In 2012, the County recorded a record number of suicides (413) and a suicide rate (13.1 per 100,000 people) that rose for the sixth year in a row. In the United States, one person dies by suicide every 16 minutes. In San Diego County, one person dies by suicide every day. In 2012, 270 deaths were attributed to motor-vehicle incidents and there were 122 homicides. There were 269 deaths related to prescription drugs. Suicide and its growing frequency is a serious concern.

Fallbrook Healthcare District is hosting free training for persons interested in suicide prevention. On Tuesday, Feb. 25, the Community Health Improvement Partners (CHIP) in affiliation with the County Health and Human Services Agency will present a one hour course called QPR. (Question, Persuade and Refer).

QPR trains people to recognize warning signs, what questions to ask and how to offer hope and help to someone in a suicide crisis. This training is free; it is funded by the County of San Diego and offered on behalf of the San Diego County Suicide prevention Council. Training will be Tuesday, Feb. 25, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at FPUD (Fallbrook Public Utility District ) 990 East Mission Road, Fallbrook.

The Healthcare District invites persons interested and concerned to learn this emergency intervention that can save the life of a friend, colleague, family member or neighbor. Call or e-mail to register by Friday, Feb. 21, (760) 731-9187 or [email protected]. Registration is necessary to be sure to receive print materials for the training.