The SaFETy Score is a brief screening tool to assess future firearm injury risk in clinical settings. It consists of four questions framed in non-judgmental, non-incriminating language to encourage honest responses and improve data accuracy. Designed for youth ages 14 to 24, the tool can be implemented in different clinical settings, including emergency departments, Level 1 trauma centers, and primary care. Based on the total score, the tool can be used to refer youth to appropriate interventions at varying levels of intensity. It can be clinician- or self-administered electronically or on paper, allowing patients to respond privately and at their own pace. Standardizing the questions and administration methods supports consistent system-wide screening and follow-up protocols, particularly for individuals identified as medium- or high-risk.
SaFETy Scores range from 0 to 10. A score of 6 or more suggests a very high risk of future exposure to firearm injury, making the patient an appropriate candidate for referral to intensive anti-violence programs and interventions. Patients with scores between 1 and 5 are at moderate risk and may benefit from early intervention and ongoing monitoring.
| Serious fighting | In the past 6 months, including today, how often did you get into a serious physical fight? | 0 (Never) | 0 |
| 1 (once) | 1 | ||
| 2 (twice) | 1 | ||
| 3 (3-5 times) | 1 | ||
| 4+ (6 or more times) | 4 | ||
| Friend weapon carrying (peer influences) | How many of your friends have carried a knife, razor, or gun? | 1 (none) | 0 |
| 2 (some) | 0 | ||
| 3+ (many, most, or all) | 1 | ||
| Community Environment (community exposure) | In the past 6 months, how often have you heard guns being shot? | 0 | 0 |
| 1 (once or twice) | 0 | ||
| 2 (a few times) | 0 | ||
| 3 (many times) | 1 | ||
|
Firearm Threats (violence victimization)
|
How often, in the past 6 months, including today, has someone pulled a gun on you? | 0 (never) | 0 |
| 1 (once) | 3 | ||
| 2+ (twice or more) | 4 | ||
| Total Score (Maximum of 10): | |||