Safety Concerns

Overview

Safety is one of the top concerns in the ISU ROTC Battalion. We strive to keep cadets safe during all training events, even during high-risk events. Safety is also important even when not engaging in military training. As a cadet, you have the duty of being a constant safety officer. At any time during any event, you have the power to stop an event if you witness any unsafe act that may place a fellow cadet in harms way. MS IV cadets and cadre will always be present during a training event and will be the primary instructors unless otherwise stated. All commands should be taken from them and followed as ordered.

Suicide Prevention

Some Soldiers get so overwhelmed by all the things that are happening to them that they make impulsive decisions to harm himself or herself or someone else. ALWAYS take immediate action to tell your instructor, advisor, or someone in authority regardless of whether you think you are afraid of losing friendships, butting-in where you do not belong, or getting someone in trouble. As a Soldier, it is your responsibility to have the personal courage and loyalty to your fellow Soldiers to help them not to be harmed.

Threats of harming self or others are important warning signs. You may think the Soldier is kidding. NEVER take these threats lightly. Get medical help for your buddy before they get to the stage of thinking there is no other way to solve their problems.

If you suspect that someone you know is contemplating suicide, provide “AID.”

A - Ask. Do not be afraid to ask, “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
I - Intervene immediately.
D - do not keep it a secret.


Five things to say to a possible suicidal person:

1. “I hear you.”
2. “I understand.”
3. “I care about you.”
4. “You’re not alone.”
5. “Let’s go together and get someone to help you.”


Five things NOT to say to a possible suicidal person:

1. “You’ll snap out of it.”
2. “It’s just a phase.”
3. “Stop being so selfish.”
4. “You are just trying to get attention.”
5. “You are a jerk; everyone has problems.”