Montrose, Colo. (AP) State and local officials are looking at ways to get more agencies involved in preventing suicides in Montrose county, where the rate is nearly double the national average.

Authorities sy Montrose County has nearly 20 suicides per 100,000 residents, compared with about 11 per 100,000 nationwide.

The state rate is about 17 per 100,000 residents.

Officials from the state office of suicide prevention met last week with the Midwestern Colorado Mental Health Center in Montrose.

The center wants to educate court officials and others who deal with vulnerable people to look for opportunities to intervene early and prevent suicide.