28-05-2025
Crescent Hose Company looks to cut response times with ‘Knox Box' technology
Emergencies can happen anywhere at any time, and sometimes a locked building can make it harder for first responders to react in a timely manner.
But what's known as a Knox Box Rapid Entry System can solve that issue, and the Crescent Hose Company in North East is looking to get more installed across the area.
Bayfront Maritime Centera kickss off community boating season
'It basically allows the fire departments to have a set of keys, but it's secured on the premises of the building. So essentially, if we roll up on a call and there's no one from there to let us in, it can save some time, money, and essentially lives,' said Damian Trusty, Rescue Lieutenant with the Crescent Hose Company.
Trusty said Knox Boxes are often found in factories or multi-residential buildings, but currently fewer than 10 businesses in North East have them installed.
The box itself is a red and black wall-mounted safe installed outside of a building or business.
First responders have a key of their own to access the safe, and when they open it, a set of keys to the locked building can be found inside, which allows first responders to quickly enter a building without having to break anything.
'It makes our response times a lot quicker. It helps us gain access quicker to put water on fire, to get to a patient if need be. On the flip side of that, the businesses, it can save them money, potentially, if it's a late-night call, we don't have anyone around, and we have a reason to think that we need to get in there urgently, we can get in there urgently without using methods that would damage property,' said Trusty.
He said his fire department has already used Knox Boxes for several fire alarms and EMS calls, but so far, no working fires.
New Shriners tech will help young athletes safely return to sports following injuries
Commercial Knox Boxes are currently starting at $500 at with residential boxes going for $384.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
