Hi,
The only way that you can get into Safe Mode when your laptop doesn't load into the desktop screen or even in the logon screen is to repeatedly tap of F8 while it's on the Gateway splash screen. It should show Advanced Boot Options and you'll be able to see Safe Mode options from it. If you can still load up to the logon screen here's a complete tutorial on what you can do.
- While on the logon screen you should see the shut down button.
- Hold down the shift key and select restart. (Do not let go of shift while selecting restart)
- It would restart on the Choose an option screen
- Select Troubleshoot then Advanced Options and lastly Startup settings
- Select Enable Safe Mode and click Restart on the bottom right.