Keynote
Reframing Suicide Prevention in Public Safety and Within Ourselves
Keynote & Hands-On Impact Workshop Building Zero Suicide Kits
Session Length: 2 Hours (Keynote + Interactive Workshop)
Keynote Description (Opening approx. 45 minutes)
Suicide touches every community, and has touched all of our lives personally in some way; and for those in 911 and public safety we face this epidemic at a constant rate as we serve our communities. Sadly, those within public safety have a higher rate of suicide than the rest of the population. During September, it is Suicide Awareness Month, this keynote moves beyond awareness alone and challenges attendees to consider how connection, compassion, and action can save lives. Even our own.
Through a powerful personal story of loss, survival, and perspective, Dawn Shumway explores how one moment, and one simple act, reshaped her life. This opening keynote will not only inspire others, but it sets the tone for the session and the conference by normalizing conversations around suicide, reducing stigma, and reminding attendees that suicide prevention is not only about protecting the public - it is also about protecting ourselves and each other.
Attendees will leave the keynote grounded in purpose, emotionally prepared for the work ahead, and ready to move into meaningful action.
Breakout Workshop Description (approx 75 minutes)
Following the keynote, attendees transition into a guided, hands-on workshop focused on building Zero Suicide Kits, tangible tools designed to spark conversation, offer hope, build rapport in our communities, and connect individuals to resources at critical moments.
Participants will work collaboratively to assemble kits intended for use in local schools and for local responders to carry in their vehicles for distribution during calls. This workshop creates space for connection, reflection, and shared purpose while reinforcing that suicide prevention is not impossible, and that even if we save just one life, just like mine, it’s a life worth saving.
Recommended Audience
911 Professionals, Public Safety Leaders, Law Enforcement, Fire and Medical Emergency Responders, Supervisors, Wellness Teams, Educators, and Community Partners.