Lock to Live, developed in 2018 at the University of Colorado, is a decision support tool designed to help individuals reduce access to potentially dangerous items in the home during times of high risk.
This tool provides a step-by-step assessment and generates tailored recommendations based on patient responses. While Lock to Live encompasses a range of health hazards—including medications, sharp objects, ropes or cables, and chemicals—its key focus is on firearm access.
As part of the Lock to Live intervention, patients are first asked to identify trusted individuals who might be able to help with safe storage— such as a spouse, family member, friend, coworker, or another trusted person.
The firearm screening questions then ask the patient about:
Based on responses, in-home and off-site storage options are shared, alongside the cost, pros, and cons of each option. Patients are then prompted to select their next steps for secure storage. They also have the option to read short personal stories about individuals who made choices around secure storage.
Research has shown that users generally respond positively to the Lock to Live tool. They appreciate that the tool is anonymous, uses non-judgmental and normalizing language, and is respectful of values around firearms. It is also seen as accessible, realistic, and useful.1 Most users indicate they would recommend Lock to Live to others facing similar situations.