Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish the procedures to be followed by the student body, faculty, and staff in the event of a suicide. Implementation of these procedures whenever necessary should minimize loss of life, injury and disruption of scheduled activities.

Priorities

A suicide is a complex physical and psychological ordeal. The need to quickly assess the situation and give the appropriate treatment is absolutely critical. Campus Safety and the counseling center are the primary points of contact for this plan.

Faculty and staff will be required to assist in assuring student safety. Expectations for Employees and Students

While it not required for one to conduct medical care, one must immediately notify 911 and if possible, notify Campus Safety at Daytona: 386-226-7233(SAFE) or Prescott: 928-777-3728.

Communications

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will communicate with the campus community by the following means:

• CodeRED
• Siren
• Emails
• Campus Radio (WIKD Emergency Alert System)
• Campus website
• Campus TV
• Verbal instructions

Responsibility and Control

Unless a mass suicide occurs, the need for an Incident Command System is low. However, all efforts shall be coordinated through Campus Safety and the Counseling Center.

Emergency and Training Plans

RESPONSE

Response After Suicide Attempt

If a suicide attempt has already been made, follow the Medical Emergency response procedures.

If a suicide attempt has been made and emergency response is on the way, attempt to get the details of the timing and method (i.e. item ingested, amount taken, weapons used, etc). Perform first aid if trained.

After emergency responders have arrived, contact applicable Resident Advisor if the event occurred in residential hall. Campus Safety will contact the Dean of Students for all student suicide attempts. Campus Safety will also contact the Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer for any staff suicide attempts on campus.

Response to Suicide Threats

When a threat is immediate, but no suicide attempt has actually occurred, stay with the person or have someone stay with the person and get immediate assistance. Contact any of the following for assistance:

• Applicable Resident Advisor or Dean of Students.
• Campus Safety at Daytona: 386-226-7233(SAFE) or Prescott: 928-777-3728.
• 911.
• Counseling Center 226-6035.

Establish a caring, supportive, assuring, accepting and firm relationship. Elicit suicidal thoughts and do not remain vague. If the person says, "I wish I were dead," respond, "Are you thinking of suicide?" You will not contribute to a suicide by discussing these feelings directly; you may well prevent a suicide.

When the suicide threat is not immediate, but suggested, attempt to make a written "no suicide" contract with the individual. The contract could state, "I will not make any attempt to harm myself". The contract should also include a mutually agreed upon date by which the person will see professional help. Refer the person to the Counseling Center or the treatment center of the person's choice.

Contact the Counseling Center at 386-226-7233 for assistance. Contact the Counseling Center, 386-226-7233, for confidential assistance in all suicide threats or with general questions or concerns.