Residential KnoxBox Program

When San Diego County Fire is called upon to help during emergencies, our mission is clear. We reach those in need, as quickly and safely as possible.
Sometimes, we must overcome barriers. Locked doors are among those barriers, when residents cannot reach them due to their conditions.
Our Residential KnoxBox Program is designed to give residents a back-up plan to be accessible during crisis.
Qualifying residents will receive a lock box at no cost. Inside, a spare house key can be stored for access by County Fire during emergencies. County Fire will install the box.
Residents who live in Deer Springs Fire Protection District, Ramona Municipal Water District, or San Diego County Fire's service area and identify with at least one of the following:
- 62 years of age or older
- Have a disability
- Needs assistance with one or more Major Life Activity
Fill out an Online Application
or
Fill out an Application Form (pdf) and return to the Community Risk Reduction Division by email or sending it by US mail to:
San Diego County Fire Community Risk Reduction 5510 Overland Ave, Suite 250 San Diego, CA 92123
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What is a qualifying disability?
Disability is defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act Title 42, Chapter 126, Section 12102 (1).
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What is a Major Life Activity?
Major Life Activities are activities like caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, or lifting. For more, see the Americans with Disabilities Act Title 42, Chapter 126, Section 12102 (2) (A).
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Can I get assistance filling out an application?
Yes! Please contact by email or phone. We will gladly assist you. Please have all of the information needed to complete the Application Form ready when you contact us.
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What should I have prepared when you come to install the KnoxBox on my home?
Please have the following ready for us on the day of installation:
- A spare house key that will go into the box
- The Fire Prevention Specialist who will work with you to install the box will let you know which of the following agreements you will need to sign based on the method of installation. If you have a landlord, they must also sign this agreement.
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I have a KnoxBox installed but I no longer need and/or want to be a part
of this program. What do I do?
Please contact us at FireCRR@sdcounty.ca.gov or call (858) 974-5744. We will remove the KnoxBox and return your home key.