Explorer Recommends Lock Box to Save Your Door

Explorer Geri shares the idea that people who have some type of emergency alert should have a lock box with a house entry door key, so first responders can gain entry in an emergency without kicking in the door.

Recalling a previous discussion, she says that if a person had to summon help, but were unable to let the crew inside the home, having a lock box and combination known by trusted persons or the fire department allow others to open the door and come in.

Explorer Rick tells the group that he has been assured that his local fire departments’ EMT group will keep the combinations if given to them by residents to prevent just such damage.

Another member reports having an electronic entry door lock, and has given a copy of the key to the manager of the complex and other family and friends where she lives.  

Other members give keys to friendly neighbors or keep extras in the garage, but that requires that others know the garage code and if the garage entry to the house is locked, it too may have to be breached in an emergency.

The group agrees that when an emergency call goes out, it is good property insurance to have placed a lockbox outside with a code known by friends or first responders. 

How to pick the right Lockbox

We found this really excellent review explaining what the difference was between a good and bad lockbox, and which one was "best".

Listen to a discussion of this topic

from the Commonwealth Club, San Francisco circle discussion May 9th, 2016.