The Knox Box Program is a public safety initiative designed to allow emergency responders quick access to key entry points of a building in case of an emergency, such as a fire or medical situation, when the building is unoccupied or when the occupant is unable to open the door. It is a vital tool that ensures rapid access while preventing property damage from forced entry.

Required Knox Box Locations: 

• Structures or occupancies equipped with fire sprinkler systems. 
• Structures or occupancies equipped with fire alarm systems. 
• Structures or occupancies containing an automatic fire suppression system. 
• Buildings / Facilities that have Hazardous Materials or are required to produce MSDS sheets. 
• Gates which limit emergency vehicle access. Electric gates require a Knox switch. manual gates may use a Knox padlock. 
• Other locations deemed appropriate by the Fire Marshal. 

Key Points of the Knox Box Program:

1. What is a Knox Box?

   • A Knox Box is a secure, tamper-proof lockbox that is installed outside a building. Inside the box are key(s) to the building and possibly other important access points (such as gates or elevator controls).
   • The lockbox can only be accessed by authorized emergency responders (firefighters, police, etc.) using a master key.

2. Why is the Knox Box Program Important?

   • Time-Saving: In emergencies, every second counts. The Knox Box gives emergency personnel immediate access to the building without needing to break doors or windows.
   • Preventing Damage: By providing quick access to keys, the program helps prevent costly damage to property that may occur when responders are forced to break into a building.
   • Increased Safety: It enhances the ability to provide timely help during emergencies, ensuring that responders can enter the premises to offer assistance promptly.

3. Who Should Participate in the Program?

   • The program is ideal for everyone. Not only can those in single family homes register with a Knox box, but so can commercial buildings, multifamily residences, schools, medical facilities, and other places where emergency personnel may need immediate access to the premises.

4. How Does the Knox Box Program Work?

   • Property owners or managers purchase and install a Knox Box at a designated location, typically near the main entrance or a side door.
   • The box is registered with local fire departments, who keep a master key to access all Knox Boxes in the area.
   • In an emergency, responders can use the master key to access the box and retrieve the necessary keys to gain entry.

5. How to Participate:

   • Step 1: Contact your local fire department or municipal office to inquire about the Knox Box program. If you are a resident of the City of Social Circle, call 770-464-0621. 
   • Step 2: Choose the appropriate type and size of Knox Box based on your building's needs. The 3200 series is the most commonly purchased.  Knox Box's can be viewed and purchased at www.knoxbox.com. Use zip code 30025 when ordering if you are a resident of Social Circle, and select the Social Circle Fire Department as your department. 
   • Step 3: Purchase and install the Knox Box at a location approved by your local fire department. Knox Box's should be installed five feet from the ground. and should be where emergency crews would most likely enter the structure. 
   • Step 4: Provide the necessary building keys to be placed inside the Knox Box.
   • Step 5: Ensure your local fire department is informed once the Knox Box is installed so that they can register it in their system. Please call the Social Circle Fire Marshal's Office at 770-464-0621.

6. Benefits to the Community:

   • Faster response times during emergencies, which can make a significant difference in saving lives and minimizing property damage.
   • A collaborative effort between property owners and first responders to ensure community safety.

By enrolling in the Knox Box Program, businesses and property owners can ensure they are prepared for emergencies, contribute to community safety, and potentially save on repair costs from forced entry.

For more information on how to participate or install a Knox Box, please contact the Social Circle Fire Department.