Knox Boxes - Commercial

What is the Knox Rapid Access System?

The Knox Box Rapid Access System is a secure emergency access program developed for property owners and fire departments. When a fire breaks out or there is an emergency, the Knox Box Rapid Access System allows firefighters and paramedics immediate access into buildings and property without forced entry damage or delay. Property owners store keys and access cards in high security Knox-Boxes mounted near building entrances. Each Knox-Box purchased by a property owner is keyed to a master key controlled by the Mesquite Fire Department.  In addition to key boxes and vaults, Knox Padlocks and key switches operate the same master key.

How does the Knox Rapid Access System benefit property owners?

When an emergency occurs, the Knox Box Rapid Access System will allow the Mesquite Fire Department to spend less time and fewer resources gaining access to your building. This faster access will result in a more rapid control of the emergency situation. This could mean faster fire control or more rapid shut off of a sprinkler system, resulting in less water damage. In addition, the Knox Box Rapid Access System allows fire department access without damage to the building. Without this system, the fire department will gain access by forcible entry. This generally results in damage to doors or windows. Repairs made after a single forcible entry will likely pay for the purchase and installation of a Knox-Box. With the Knox-Box Rapid Access System, property owners save in two ways; first, with more rapid control of emergencies and second, with less damage caused by fire department entry.

Who is required to install the Knox Box?

The fire code state a key box shall be installed where access to or within a structure or an area is restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life-saving or fire-fighting purposes.  It also states a key box shall be provided on each occupancy with a fire alarm system or fire sprinkler system that initiates an automatic fire department response.  The key box (Knox Box) shall contain keys for each locked doorway within the building and each elevator.  The keys shall be identified as to the corresponding locks.

Where should my Knox Box be mounted?

Key boxes (Knox Boxes) should be mounted near the main entry door to the building and/or at the fire sprinkler riser room. Depending on the type of Knox Box, the Mesquite Fire Department recommends that the box be mounted on the right hand side of the door, between 48” and 72” above the ground. We also realize that this may not be possible in all applications, so we would recommend calling the Fire Department for advice in some situations.

What keys need to be installed in my Knox Box?

The Mesquite Fire Department can assist you with that information. Keys required will vary from one business to another.
The key box shall contain keys for each locked doorway within the building and each elevator.  The keys shall be identified as to the corresponding locks. A master key is preferred.

Who can authorize a Knox-Box System?

Knox maintains strict security control by allowing only Mesquite Fire Department to authorize the purchase of each Knox Box in their city. A Knox Box can be purchased from the Knox Company.  Knox website is the recommended method.  Their website is www.knoxbox.com.  If you have any questions, contact the Fire Marshal at firemarshal@mesquitefire.org or by contacting the Mesquite Fire Prevention Division at 972-216-6267. 

How secure is a Knox-Box System?

Security has always been a Knox strong point. Designed for maximum protection, each virtually indestructible box, switch or lock features a special high-security Medeco lock and key.  This Medeco restricted locking system guards against unauthorized key duplication. Keys aren’t even available to locksmiths or lock distributors-only The Knox Company can supply these keys! The system offers maximum security at every step. Each city has an exclusive key code. All Knox-Box stations in Mesquite are keyed alike and only the Mesquite Fire Department has master keys.