GIFD Launches Residential Knox Box Loaner Program

Grand Island, Neb. — The Grand Island Fire Department is introducing a new Residential Knox Box Loaner Program designed to help firefighters and paramedics reach residents more quickly during emergencies while reducing the need for forced entry into homes.

The program provides qualifying Grand Island residents with a City-owned residential Knox Box at no cost. The secure lock box stores a spare house key that can only be accessed by authorized emergency responders during emergency incidents. Once approved, Fire Department personnel will install the Knox Box at the resident's home.

"When every second matters, being able to enter a home without delay can make a significant difference," GIFD Fire Prevention Division Chief Phil Thomas said. "This program helps us reach residents who may be unable to answer the door during a medical emergency while also helping prevent unnecessary damage to their homes."

The Residential Knox Box Loaner Program is intended for residents who have medical or physical conditions that may prevent them from opening their door during an emergency. Priority will be given to seniors, individuals with mobility limitations or chronic medical conditions, and residents who live alone or are frequently alone. Applicants must reside within the Grand Island city limits and live in an owner-occupied residence.

"Many people want to remain safely and independently in their own homes for as long as possible, but emergencies can create unexpected challenges,” said Rachelle Lipker, Executive Director of the American Red Cross serving Central and Western Nebraska. “This program helps remove one of those barriers by making it easier for first responders to quickly reach residents when every second counts."

The Fire Department currently has 10 loaner Knox Boxes available through the program. Boxes will be distributed based on eligibility and available inventory. If demand exceeds the current supply, eligible applicants will be placed on a waiting list as the department pursues additional funding opportunities to expand the program.

Applications can be completed online at www.gifire.org/knoxbox. Residents who need assistance completing an application or have questions about the program may also contact the Grand Island Fire Department at (308) 385-5300 or visit Fire Station No. 1 or Fire Administration at City Hall. The Residential Knox Box Loaner Program reflects the Grand Island Fire Department's ongoing commitment to improving emergency response, protecting property and enhancing the safety of residents throughout the community.

This program would not have been possible without the generous donation from the American Red Cross, which provided the initial funding to launch the Residential Knox Box Loaner Program. As the program grows, GIFD will actively pursue grant opportunities and additional community partnerships to purchase more Knox Boxes.

The American Red Cross is also partnering with Heartland United Way, NextPoint Home Development, Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity and the Multicultural Coalition to help raise awareness of the program and connect eligible residents with this life-saving resource. Each Knox Box costs approximately $565, and every donation helps provide this resource to residents who need it most. Individuals, businesses or organizations interested in supporting the program through a financial donation are encouraged to contact the Grand Island Fire Department.

"This program is a great example of what can happen when organizations work together to improve community safety," Thomas said. "We're grateful to the American Red Cross and all of our community partners for helping us make this resource available to Grand Island residents."