Hoskins K, Johnson C, Davis M, Pettit AR, Barkin S, Jager-Hyman S, Rivara F, Walton M, Wolk CB, Beidas RS. A mixed methods evaluation of parents’ perspectives on the acceptability of the S.A.F.E. Firearm program. J Appl Res Child. 2021;12(2):2. PMID: 36883133; PMCID: PMC9987154.
Introduction: Limiting unauthorized youth access to firearms is essential for preventing both unintentional injury and suicide. Despite recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and other organizations that firearms be stored locked, unloaded, and separately from ammunition, an estimated 4.6 million children live in homes with at least 1 firearm stored unlocked and loaded. A national survey found that at least 1 firearm is present in 42% of U.S. households, and firearm sales have surged since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The availability of firearms, coupled with their lethality, amplifies the importance of firearm storage programs directed to parents and caregivers of youth (hereon referred to as “parents”). Pediatric primary care is an optimal setting for implementation of such programs, given the reach of well-child care…