The Ventura County Board of Supervisors has officially proclaimed September as National Suicide Prevention Month, reaffirming their commitment to addressing the critical issue of mental health and suicide prevention in the community. This proclamation highlights the county’s dedication to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and providing resources for individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
In 2023, Ventura County had 45 gun-suicide deaths, the largest number since 2018. Four of those residents were 21 year old or younger. Firearms have been the leading cause of death for US children and teens since 2020, representing 18% of all deaths for children 1 to 18 years old in 2022, according to the CDC.
To promote firearm safety and protect children and schools from gun-related incidents, a coalition of Ventura County law enforcement agencies and educational leaders are relaunching a public service announcement (PSA). The PSA, titled “Gun Safe Storage: It’s The Law,” aims to raise awareness about the importance of secure gun storage and responsible firearms ownership.