How it Works
The access box is a small, wall mounted vault designed to aid firefighters in gaining immediate access to a structure or area. The box is keyed to a single master key controlled by the fire department. No other agency or business owner has access to the device.
- With a Knox Box the fire department does not have to wait for the property owner or representative to unlock the door in the middle of the night or it is not necessary to gain access by forced entry.
- If you’re injured or incapacitated, entry can be made quickly. The elderly and/or critically ill who depend on support services such as LifeLine can benefit from a Knox Box.
- The Knox Box system reduces response time, property damage and the liability for lost keys. Doors can even be locked after an investigation.
- Master keys are locked in a device on the apparatus and can only be released by our communication system to that individual unit. An audit trail allows supervisors to see when the keys are released in the unit.
Purchasing
- You are responsible for purchasing the Knox Box and it will be shipped directly to the location of your choice.
- The most convenient way is to purchase is on line through the web site.
- On the web site pick the type of box you are interested in. The most popular box for business/commercial use is the 3200 series. There are also boxes designated for residential use.
- IMPORTANT: When you access the series of box you plan to review or purchase the site will prompt you to select the fire department, make sure you use the Howard Co Dept of Fire/Res Svcs. Keys/Locks are unique to each jurisdiction.
- If you do not have access to the web, contact the Office of the Fire Marshal for assistance.
- The site also allows purchase of keypad locks, key switches for gates that all operate on the same principle.
Mounting
- The box is shipped in the open position for mounting. Upon receiving your Knox Box, you will need to have the box mounted as per the directions given with the box.
- Typically, the box will be located approximately 3-6 feet above grade and no more than 6 feet laterally from the main entrance of the door designated by the Office of the Fire Marshal. If you are not sure of the mounting location or have more than one box to mount, contact our office for directions.
- The door alert decal stickers that come with the box will be placed by the inspector when the keys are installed, and the cover is locked.
Knox Box Trusted Partner Program
- Knox has partnered with local companies to assist with Knox Box purchasing and installation. The local partner is VSC Fire and Security. This company is specifically partnered with Knox Box and can assist you if necessary. Howard County Department of Fire Rescue does not specifically endorse any specific company, but this is an option for professional assistance.
- The phone number for VSC Fire and Security is 301-575-1500.
- The use of VSC Fire and Security is NOT mandatory. You may choose to install the Knox Box on your own.
Install Cover and Keys
- After your Knox Box has been mounted and you are ready to insert the keys, contact the Howard County Office of the Fire Marshal at 410-313-6040. An inspector will come by and insert the keys and lock the box.
- If you received a Fire/Hazmat Inspection that required you to install a Knox Box, please contact your Inspector to secure your Knox Box. This will allow the Inspector to complete your inspection and prevent any further confusion.
- Remember you have no access to the box and need to contact the Office of the Fire Marshal if any changes are made to the locks in your building.
- The set of keys could be one master key to all entrance doors and interior rooms. If no master key is available the set should include: building entrance keys, security gates, keys to electrical and mechanical rooms, fire alarm and sprinkler rooms, elevator equipment rooms hazardous material storage rooms and any other storage areas. If the building has an elevator, include an elevator key. All keys shall be marked or identified. A list of emergency contact names and phone numbers can also be placed in the box.