Residential Lock-Box Program

As more individuals within the senior and disabled communities choose to live at home, gaining access during an emergency can be an issue for first responders, particularly if the individual has a medical or mobility difficulty. While help is just a 911 call away, what happens when you can't open the door for the emergency responder? In the past, the responders had to force open a door or break a window, ultimately causing damage to the home.

The Easton Fire Department, with assistance from a FEMA Fire Safety Grant, has purchased a limited number of residential Lock-Boxes to be loaned out to our residents in need. With a residential Lock-Box in place, the Fire Department will be able to let themselves in without damaging the property. The fire department gains entry into this Lock-Box with a master key retained in a high-security vault on the fire trucks.

For over 20 years the Easton Fire Department has been requiring commercial buildings to purchase and install a Lock-Box to protect their properties while allowing emergency responders rapid entry. We now are able to expand this program to residents living in our city.

Eligibility

In order to be deemed eligible to receive a free Lock-Box from the Easton Fire Department a person must meet all of the following requirements:

  • Reside within the City of Easton, Pennsylvania.
  • Reside in a single-family or two-family building or receive a waiver from the Fire Chief.
  • Be at least 50 years of age and/or be disabled either permanently or temporarily.
  • Annual Household Income must be below the 200% Federal Poverty Level Guideline.

Program Rules

  • The Lock-Box will remain the property of the Easton Fire Department and is only loaned to residents for use at the address listed on the application form.
  • Participants are to provide the fire department with the key or keys to their residence. These key(s) are kept secured inside the Lock-Box hung from their front door.
  • Should the home's door locks ever be changed, it is the participant's responsibility to notify the Easton Fire Department and provide the fire department with the new door key(s) for placement into the Lock-Box.
  • Participants are required to sign an Easton Fire Department "Lock-Box Residential Program Participation and Loan Agreement" at the time of installation.
  • Participants shall provide the department with emergency contact information for a person(s) who are to be notified in the event of an emergency (i.e. next of kin).