If there is a fire or other emergency at your home, a locked door can slow down firefighters or paramedics. They may need to break the door to get in. County Fire can give qualified residents a lock box with a key that firefighters can use to enter your home.
The box is called a KnoxBox. It is free. County Fire will install the box.
Who can get a KnoxBox?
To qualify:
- You must live in San Diego County Fire service area or Deer Springs Fire Protection District. See map of eligible area.
- One of these must be true:
- You are 62 or older.
- You have a disability.
- You need help with one or more Major Life Activity. They include caring for yourself, eating, using your hands.
See qualifying disabilities and definition of Major Life Activity
Apply
or
Fill out an Application Form (pdf).
Email to FireCRR@sdcounty.ca.gov
Or send by U.S. mail to:
San Diego County Fire Community Risk Reduction
5560 Overland Ave, Suite 400
San Diego, CA 92123
Get help applying
We can help you apply. Call or email us.
Email: FireCRR@sdcounty.ca.gov
Phone: 858-974-5744
Installing the KnoxBox
After we approve your application, we will contact you to schedule a time to install the KnoxBox.
Get these ready:
- A spare house key to go into the box.
- A signed agreement. There are two kinds. It will depend on how we we install the KnoxBox. We will let you know which agreement to sign.
If you rent the home, the landlord must also sign.
KnoxBox Use Agreement
KnoxBox Installation and Use Agreement
Stop using
If you have a KnoxBox but don’t want it, contact us at FireCRR@sdcounty.ca.gov or call 858-974-5744. We will remove the KnoxBox and return your home key.
