Veteran Safe Community Program
The Fire Watch's community recognition initiative honors Florida cities and counties committed to preventing Veteran suicide through education, awareness, and community engagement.
Two flagship programs, one stronger community
A Veteran Safe Community is built by implementing two of The Fire Watch's flagship programs, working together to make sure Veterans are recognized, supported, and connected to help.
The Watch Stander Program
Inspired by CPR, Watch Stander training teaches community members to recognize the warning signs of a Veteran in crisis, start a supportive conversation, and connect Veterans with the resources they need.
The Veteran Safe Place (VSP) Program
Recognizes businesses, government agencies, and organizations that train their people as Watch Standers. A group becomes a designated Veteran Safe Place by training 50 employees or 50% of its workforce, whichever is smaller.
Together, these programs create a stronger network of trained individuals and organizations working to ensure Veterans are recognized, supported, and connected to help when they need it most.
Designation is scaled to your community's size
Communities earn Veteran Safe Community designation by training government agencies, businesses, and organizations as Veteran Safe Places while achieving Watch Stander training goals based on population size. Most communities complete the process within 3 to 6 months.
| VSC Guidelines | Small community | Midsize community | Large community |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | Fewer than 10,000 | 10,000 – 30,000 | More than 30,000 |
| Veteran Safe Places | 5 | 10 | 15 |
| Watch Standers | 100 (or 5% of pop.) | 200 (or 7% of pop.) | 300 (or 8% of pop.) |
The minimum number of Veteran Safe Places may be adjusted by mutual agreement with The Fire Watch. The minimum number of Watch Standers, however, is a firm requirement and must be achieved for VSC designation.
Government or municipal agencies
- County or City Police and Fire Departments
- County Commissions
- Additional county or municipal departments and agencies
Commercial businesses and organizations
- Churches
- Hospitals
- Area businesses
- Local Veteran-serving organizations, such as American Legion posts or 501(c)3 nonprofits
What your community gains
Becoming a Veteran Safe Community demonstrates a city or county's commitment to supporting Veterans through education, collaboration, and suicide prevention.
Building a stronger network of trained individuals who can recognize and respond to Veterans in crisis.
Building a stronger network of trained individuals who can recognize and
respond to Veterans in crisis.
Increasing awareness of Veteran suicide prevention and available community resources.
Demonstrating a lasting commitment to those who served our country.
Receiving public recognition through The Fire Watch’s website and social media.
Receiving a commemorative plaque and certificate celebrating the community’s achievement.
Ready to get started?
Veterans are our family members, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and community leaders. A Veteran Safe Community reflects a shared commitment to ensuring every Veteran has access to a network of trained individuals and organizations prepared to offer support.
Getting started is simple. The Fire Watch will work with community leaders throughout the designation process, providing guidance, resources, and support every step of the way. To begin, contact your Regional Programs Director.
