Knox-Box® Systems...
The requirement for a business to install a Knox-Box® brand of lock box is mandated by the Fire Prevention Code as adopted by Township Ordinance. The Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department uses the Knox-Box® brand of lock box so we only have to carry one key for any lock box in the county.
Frequently Asked Questions About Knox-Box Systems
*click each one to read more
- What is a Knox-Box System?
- How secure is a Knox-Box System?
- Why install a Knox-Box System?
- Who can authorize a Knox-Box System?
- How is a Knox-Box System installed?
- How does the Knox-Box System work?
- Which series Knox-Box System is preferred?
- Ordering Information
The Knox-Box® is required 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, the code official is authorized to require a key box to be installed in an accessible location. Such lock boxes shall be installed on all structures of Use Group A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5, B, E, F-1, F-2, H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4, H-5, I-1, I-2, I-3, I-4, M, R-1, R-2, R-4, S-1, S-2, or any Mixed Use Group, where the structure is equipped with a fire protection system. Approved lock box containers shall be installed in the location that is designated by the Fire Department. The key box shall be of an approved type and shall contain keys to gain access as required by the code official.
For more information, visit www.knoxbox.com
Please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau (231-947-3000) if you have any questions regarding the Knox-Box system.
What is a Knox-Box System?
It's a high-security key box system, designed to give firefighters and emergency services immediate access to locked buildings, elevators, and other secured areas.
Why install a Knox-Box System?
Installation of a Knox-Box on your property will not only allow firefighters faster access in case of an emergency, but will also prevent expensive forcible entry should emergency services be required while the premises are unoccupied. Costly front doors and entry ways needn't be harmed if entry keys are available on-site.
How is a Knox-Box System installed?
Each Knox-Box is shipped with complete mounting instructions; however, GT Metro Fire Prevention Bureau will assist you in choosing a proper location for mounting. It is highly recommended that Knox-Boxes are mounted no higher than 5 feet from the ground and near the main entrance. After installation is completed, contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 231-947-3000 to conduct an inspection of the installation and lock building keys inside the box. As soon as building keys are locked inside the box, it is ready to provide immediate access to emergency personnel 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
How does the Knox-Box System work?
Following your purchase of a Knox-Box from the factory, you will mount it securely on the exterior of you building (attractive recessed-mount models are available). All necessary access keys will be locked inside by a representative of the fire department (only the fire department's master key can open this box).
The Knox-Box gives the fire department a simple alternative to expensive, time-consuming forcible entry. The generous interior capacity allows you to store everything emergency personnel may require - keys, floor plans, electronic entry cards, emergency contact names and numbers, and more - in complete security until needed.
How secure is a Knox-Box System?
Security has always been a Knox strong point. Designed for maximum protection, each virtually indestructible box 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!
Our system offers maximum security at every step. Each city has an exclusive key code. All Knox-Box stations in that city are keyed alike - and only the Fire Department has master keys. In Grand Traverse County, master keys are secured on our apparatus and are released via 911 emergency dispatch.
Who can authorize a Knox-Box System? / Ordering Information
The Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department has authorized online ordering directly from the Knox Company.
To order Knox-Box series and accessories, go to www.knoxbox.com and select Online Purchase. It is extremely important that you select the correct fire department from the list. If the wrong fire department is selected, your Knox Products will not work with your assigned fire department and you will be subjected to a $25.00 re-keying fee. Please call your fire department to verify, before making your choice.
You may also contact the fire department for an order form to mail or fax your order in. Knox-Box will ship your order directly to you. Each Knox-Box is shipped without keys, locked in an open position and ready for mounting. Contact your Fire Prevention Bureau once the box is mounted and contents are ready to be placed inside box.
Which series Knox-Box System is preferred?
Knox-Box 3200 Series The most popular KNOX-BOX product is the heavy-duty, high-security 3200 Series key box that stores keys, access cards and other small items. Optional tamper switches allow you to connect the KNOX-BOX to a building's alarm system, adding further security. Item: 3200.
Knox Vault 4400 Series The heavy-duty Knox-Vault has a large capacity for storing keys, access cards, floor plans and other building entry items. Optional tamper switches allow you to connect the Knox-Vault to the building's alarm system, adding even further security. Item: 4400.
Knox Padlock for Security Gates: 3/8 in. diameter stainless steel shackle with 2-1/8 in. clearance. Padlock designed to secure exterior perimeter and fire access gates. Heavy-duty brass body protected by EPDM boot with shackle seal. Medeco lock cylinder has UL 437 rating. Item: 3753.
For more information, visit www.knoxbox.com
Please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau (231-947-3000) if you have any questions regarding the Knox-Box system.