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PUBLIC SAFETY
Phoenix district models home lockbox effort after Chandler, Scottsdale programs
(File photo)
A lockbox is being installed on a home in this file photo. A Phoenix council district has initiated a program to install lockboxes at 100 homes occupied by seniors or adults with disabilities.
Posted
INDEPENDENT NEWSMEDIA
Seniors and adults with disabilities who live in Phoenix City Council District 1 can apply for a lockbox to be installed outside their homes for emergency access.
District 1 Councilwoman Ann O’Brien announced the program, which is in partnership with the Phoenix Fire Department and Phoenix REALTORS.
“I’m thankful for the partnership with the Phoenix REALTORS and for their continued commitment to the safety of all our residents,” said O’Brien, whose district is in northwest Phoenix.
“This program will allow our first responders to safely enter a home and help our most vulnerable residents quicker and without damaging their property.”
Similar to existing programs in Scottsdale and Chandler, the lockboxes will contain a key to the home, possible medical information such as known prescriptions, pre-existing medical conditions, allergies to medications, as well as any access cards needed to gain entry.
The code to the lockboxes will be archived with 911 dispatchers and will be provided to first responders answering an emergency call, according to a release from O’Brien’s office.
“The intention of this program is to prevent forced entry into homes where the caller may not be physically capable of answering the door,” the release stated. “As of now, our first responders must force entry by breaking a window or door – causing damage to the residence.”
The Phoenix REALTORS has committed to donating 100 lockboxes for the pilot program.
“With time and information being at a premium when emergencies arise, we are grateful for the opportunity to help both vulnerable residents and first responders when precious seconds are at stake by providing lockboxes,” Butch Leiber, president of Phoenix REALTORS, said.
“We look forward to seeing results from the pilot and eager to help expand the program by working collaboratively with the City of Phoenix and Phoenix Fire Department.”
