Suicide is the leading cause of death in jails, but experience indicates that almost all suicides can be averted with proactive jail administration and a prevention program that includes staff training, written rules and procedures, intake screening, staff communication, and human interaction. The primary element of jail suicide prevention is a capable and properly trained staff. Warning signs of suicidal behavior and reasons why jail environments are conducive to such behavior are noted. Existing research on jail suicides and basic concepts of liability are reviewed. 9 references. (Author abstract modified)