Guns are prevalent in rural communities, where the suicide rate has remained steady. Frank talk about guns with parents may be a factor in helping prevent suicide among rural youth at risk, said Temple social work professor Jonathan Singer. “Don't ask, ‘Do you have guns?’ or, ‘Do you know how to use them?’ The first thing you want to say is, ‘Do you realize that this gun can be used as a weapon in a suicide?’” Singer said.