Knox Box Rapid Entry System

In accordance with Jessup Borough Ordinance #2-2005, all businesses within the borough limits equipped with automatic sprinkler or fire alarm systems are required to install a Knox Box. The Jessup Hose Company #2 strongly encourages both commercial property owners and residents to participate in the KNOX-BOX® Rapid Entry System to enhance emergency access and response times.

What is a Knox Box?

A Knox Box is a secure, tamper-resistant key safe mounted to the exterior of a building. It contains building entry keys, electronic access cards, or other critical emergency information. This system ensures that emergency responders can access your property quickly and safely during an alarm or sprinkler activation—without the need for forced entry.

Knox devices are designed for both building and property access:

• Key Boxes, Vaults, and Cabinets: Store entry keys and emergency information.

• Key Switches and Padlocks: Provide controlled access to secured gates and other barriers.

Many businesses throughout Jessup Borough are already active participants in this vital safety program.

How It Works

Imagine it’s 2:00 a.m. and your fire alarm system activates. The fire department arrives promptly. Instead of breaking down a door or shattering a window, firefighters use a secure department-issued key to open your Knox Box, retrieve your master keys, and immediately begin their search for the source of the alarm.

This approach:

• Prevents costly property damage

• Reduces downtime for business operations

• Eliminates hazards such as broken glass and debris

• Enhances firefighter safety during response

Benefits of Participation

• Rapid, secure emergency access

• Reduced property damage

• Compliance with local ordinances

• Peace of mind knowing first responders can enter when every second counts

For more information on installing a Knox Box, including approved models and placement guidelines, please contact the Jessup Hose Company #2 or visit the official Knox Company website at www.knoxbox.com.

Top 10 Reasons to Install a KNOX-BOX®

1. Prevent Costly Property Damage
   Avoid unnecessary forced entry that could result in expensive repairs—often not covered by insurance deductibles.

2. Ensure Immediate Access for Firefighters
   Allow first responders to enter your building without delay, especially during critical emergencies.

3. Minimize Water Damage
   Enable faster access to sprinkler shut-off valves, reducing potential water damage to your property and assets.

4. Meet Local Code Requirements
   Stay compliant with Jessup Borough Ordinance #2-2005 and other applicable emergency access regulations.

5. Avoid Late-Night Disruptions
   Eliminate the need to respond in person to after-hours alarms or false activations.

6. Enhance Security While Away
   Rest easy knowing that only the Fire Department has access to your Knox Box and your building during emergencies.

7. Maintain Entry Integrity
   After an incident, firefighters can relock your doors, preserving your building’s security without damage.

8. Protect Your Investment
   Safeguard your facility from thousands of dollars in damage with a one-time, affordable installation.

9. Rely on Proven Security
   Benefit from UL-tested, attack-resistant technology designed for the highest level of emergency access protection.

10. Join a Trusted National Network
    Over 6,000 communities nationwide rely on the Knox Box system, backed by more than 25 years of proven performance.

KNOX-BOX® Rapid Entry System – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Knox Box system?
A Knox Box is a high-security key safe that provides firefighters and emergency responders with immediate access to locked buildings, elevators, gates, and other secured areas. It eliminates the need for forced entry during emergencies, allowing rapid, damage-free access.

2. Why should I install a Knox Box?
Installing a Knox Box enables emergency personnel to respond more quickly, reducing damage to doors and windows during forced entry. It also ensures that your property is accessible even when unoccupied, helping prevent delays that can lead to additional fire or water damage.

3. How does the Knox Box system work?
Once you purchase a Knox Box, it is securely mounted on your building’s exterior. A representative from Jessup Hose Company #2 will place your building's access keys inside. Only the fire department holds the master key to open the box during an emergency. The interior has ample space for keys, access cards, floor plans, and other emergency information.

4. How secure is the Knox Box system?
Knox Boxes feature high-security Medeco locks, part of a patented system that prevents unauthorized key duplication. Only The Knox Company can issue keys, and each fire department has a unique key code. All boxes in Jessup Borough are keyed alike and accessible only to authorized fire personnel.

5. Who can authorize the purchase of a Knox Box?
Only your local fire department can authorize the purchase of a Knox Box. You must obtain an official authorization form from Jessup Hose Company #2. This form must be signed by a department official whose signature is on file with the Knox Company. Once verified, your Knox Box will be shipped directly to you, unlocked and ready for installation.

6. How is a Knox Box installed?
Each Knox Box comes with complete mounting instructions. The fire department will assist in determining the most appropriate and accessible installation location. After installation, a department representative will inspect the box and securely place your building keys inside. Once secured, your Knox Box is ready to provide 24/7 emergency access.

Additional Information

• Copies of the Jessup Borough ordinance related to Knox Entry Systems are available at the borough building or fire station.

• For more information or to request an information packet, visit www.knoxbox.com or contact Jessup Hose Company #2 at (570) 383-6426.

• After installing your Knox Box, please notify the fire company so we can schedule a visit to secure your keys and finalize the system setup.