NCJ Number
114739
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 50 Issue: 7 Dated: (December 1988) Pages: 36-40
Date Published
1988
Length
5 pages
Annotation
A national study of jail suicides (Lindsay Hayes, 1980) -- which determined who commits suicide in jail, under what circumstances, and by what method -- has helped correctional training specialists develop suicide prevention techniques.
Abstract
A suicide prevention program should be implemented at initial intake, since most suicides occur within the first 24 hours of incarceration. Well-trained officers can identify potential suicidal arrestees. Questions about past suicide attempts and family background can help in this identification. Suicidal inmates should be placed among the general inmate population whenever possible. A better approach, however, is the diversion of suicidal inmates to appropriate social services for treatment. Jail design changes can also help prevent inmate suicides. Barless windows and doors, pressure-breaking hangers, and blankets and bedding that tear away under pressure (hanging is the most common suicide method) can help prevent suicides. Inmates' belts and shoelaces should be removed for the first 48 hours of incarceration. Other policies important for suicide prevention are a written suicide prevention plan, constant supervision of suicidal inmates, commendations to officers and inmates who prevent suicides, and the development of staff communication skills. 2 references.