Knox-Box® is a secure container for emergency service access keys, often placed outside buildings to prevent forced entry. The boxes are typically keyed alike, and security risks are mitigated by integrating them into existing security systems and restricting access to master keys.
A Knox-Box® is a locked container or enclosure in which emergency services access keys for buildings are stored. The locks on these boxes in any area are typically keyed alike to allow firefighters to carry a single master key with them to open all Knox-Box®s in that area. The advantage of having the access keys readily at hand in a room in the event of a fire includes a reduction in the potential damage caused by burglary by the fire crews. The disadvantages of the Knox-Box® system are the obvious security risks of keys in a place of public access. These dangers are, however, largely offset by the integration of boxes into existing security systems and by restricting access to master keys by firefighters.
The outcome of fires in buildings often depends on the ability of firefighters to get inside quickly. Since many fires occur when buildings are unoccupied, this often poses a problem and requires fire crews to gain forced entry by breaking windows or doors. If the fire is quickly contained and no structural damage is done, this forced entry is often an unnecessary added expense to the building owners. Knox-Boxes® are often used to solve this problem by placing a limited set of exterior access door keys in a safe and secure enclosure in an easily accessible, marked location on the outside of the building.
The Knox-Box® is typically a small, sturdy metal enclosure with a locked access door on the front. Also known as the Knox-Box Rapid Entry System®, these mini safes feature locks with keys that are the same as all other safes in the area or in a specific district. The master key to these boxes is kept in a secure location with the relevant fire department and often requires a dual level authorization to access. Despite these security measures, using the Knox-Box® carries the obvious security risk of having the keys to the premises stored in a public place.
One way to avoid this risk is to integrate a Knox-Box® into the building’s security system. This will report a security company or building owners if the box is opened, thereby alerting them of possible illegal activity. Each box is often fitted with electronic locks and connected to the security company’s control room via a dedicated telephone line. If the fire brigade requires emergency access, security company personnel can open the lock remotely using DTMF tone technology.
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