Waukee Fire Department Seeks Applicants for Free Secure Entry Program

Whether a senior living independently at home or someone with a medical condition that could require paramedic intervention, the Waukee Fire Department wants residents to know that not only will they take care of them during their visit, but also their property.

Thanks to a new program being piloted by the Waukee Fire Department and supported by the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, elderly or infirm residents can apply for a Knox-Box, a secured entry key box containing a house key, for no charge.

It’s a temporary program meant to give residents peace-of-mind in the event that paramedics or the fire department ever need to enter their home in an emergency.

Eric Wallace, firefighter/paramedic with the Waukee Fire Department, said the Knox-Boxes help prevent damage that can occur when emergency crews are not able to gain access to a home.

“It doesn’t happen often, but this is one way to prevent us having to break in a door or a window so we can administer aid or take you to the hospital,” said Wallace. “It’s just a little bit of extra security. We want to service the community, not cause additional hardship or stress.”

So, how do the Knox-Boxes work? Wallace said the 7” x 7” boxes can be securely hung over an entry door and can only be accessed by a key that is electronically locked into a fire truck.  Firefighters and paramedics can only use this key after getting the ok from the Dallas County Sheriff’s Communication Center. All usage is documented. Once emergency crews use the access key to open your Knox-Box, your house key is retrieved and they can gain access to your house without forcible damage.

Wallace said the Waukee Fire Department is currently looking for residents who would like to take advantage of the Temporary Residential Knox-Box program. Currently, the boxes are being offered to seniors, people with a history of medical problems and/or are recuperating from a hospital stay or someone using a medical alert service. These applicants will have access to the boxes for up to one year free of charge.

If you’re interested in a residential box for your home, the Waukee Fire Department can assist you in ordering one. The Residential Knox-Box comes in the three colors and can be permanently mounted to your residence. These models cost between $169 and $265.

For more information, to apply or order a residential Knox-Box, e-mail Eric Wallace at the Waukee Fire Department or call 515-987-4712.