HOMER, N.Y. (WHCU) — Cortland area residents can learn next week about suicide prevention techniques. 

The New York State Office of Mental Health and Rural Health Institute are hosting a free training session Wednesday afternoon in Homer. The SafeTALK training will focus on recognizing signs of suicidal ideation and how to respond.

Cortland County Legislative Chair Kevin Fitch says the SafeTALK training is a crucial step in suicide prevention. It’s being held Wednesday from one to four o’clock at the Homer Center for the Arts.