Suicide Contagion in the Fire Service: Understanding the Risks and Taking Action

Suicide remains a leading cause of death in the U.S., and the fire service is not immune. When multiple suicides occur in close proximity or time, they may represent a suicide cluster, often linked to contagion—where exposure to one suicide may increase risk for others. While not every exposure leads to elevated risk, certain conditions common in the fire service—such as repeated trauma exposure, strong interpersonal bonds, and high job stress—can increase vulnerability. These risks are further compounded by strained peer or supervisory relationships, limited access to trusted mental health resources, inadequate postvention protocols, and inconsistent messaging following a suicide—all of which can leave firefighters feeling isolated or unsupported during critical moments. Using the CDC’s socio-ecological model, this presentation explores how risk factors at the individual, relational, community, societal, and policy levels intersect to create environments where suicide contagion can occur. Recent suspected suicide clusters in the fire service have highlighted the urgency of this issue. Immediate and long-term strategies—ranging from postvention efforts and resilience training to peer support, leadership engagement, and policy reform—are outlined as essential tools in preventing further loss.

A coordinated and sustained approach is needed to shift norms, improve care access, and strengthen protective factors. Through practical action at all levels, the fire service can move toward a more supportive and responsive system—one where suicide prevention is treated as a priority and recognized as a shared responsibility.