About the Survey

COFIPS is an online questionnaire that is conducted annually in Colorado. The anonymous data COFIPS provides offers comprehensive, Colorado-specific insights into various aspects concerning firearm-related harms and their prevention in our state. 

Through the data, a story unfolds, revealing the diversity of connections to and encounters with firearms that exist across the state. These findings can serve as a compass, encouraging all Coloradans to take informed steps towards preventing injuries, deaths, and other harms involving firearms. 

COFIPS includes questions across five main categories:  

  • Firearms culture (familiarity with and exposure to firearms) 

  • Perceptions of and concerns about firearm injury and violence 

  • Knowledge and attitudes about firearms and firearm injury prevention 

  • Awareness of and opinions on practices and policies aimed at reducing firearm-related harms  

  • Responsible firearm ownership and secure storage behaviors within households that have firearms

Survey Timeline

A version of COFIPS will be conducted annually. Starting with its inaugural administration in 2023, a state-representative “core survey” will be conducted during odd-numbered years with Colorado adults. This survey provides information on firearm culture, firearm safety behaviors, perceptions of firearm injury, and opinions on prevention and intervention strategies. 

In even-numbered years, a “specialty survey” will be administered to specific populations of interest, such as groups at higher risk of firearm injury and death or groups that support prevention efforts. This survey may look different from one year to the next depending on the group being asked to participate. The goal of the specialty survey is to provide additional, in-depth data about populations at risk of firearm injury and opportunities for prevention among specific groups. 

    • Timeline: Data collected from May 9-June 7, 2023

    • Population: Colorado adults, 18+

    • Survey description: Online, anonymous survey with a total of 117 questions covering various topics related to firearm injury and its prevention. The survey was available in both English and Spanish.

    • Data collection: The survey was administered by a marketing research firm, who collected responses via an existing survey panel and through recruitment of participants who represent the diverse demographics of Colorado residents.

    • Participation: A sample of 1,520 Coloradans completed the survey; the information they provided is representative of adults in Colorado.

    • Timeline: Specialty survey anticipated to begin May 2024