North area fire departments receive grant for new technology
Seven fire departments in the north Denver metro region received grant funding to purchase and install emergency access technology at commercial buildings.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is giving $1.25 million to the Thornton, Westminster, Federal Heights, and Brighton fire departments and the North Metro, Adams County, and South Adams County fire rescue districts to implement a new electronic rapid access system, according to a Thornton Fire Department news release.
The departments will use the funding to purchase small metal boxes, called the Knox Box, to install at businesses that opens doors. Firefighters remotely access the boxes in emergencies to enter the buildings.
The North Area Fire Marshalls said in the news release, “Addressing fire and life safety issues is a top priority for our departments, and we are excited to be the largest regional effort to implement an Electronic Rapid Access System. This system reinforces our commitment to our community in providing professional and exceptional services for life and fire safety.”
Often, firefighters make a forced entry into buildings, resulting in response delays and costly damages. The new electronic rapid access system would address both issues.
The fire departments have already started retrofitting a total of 6,400 businesses at no additional cost to the departments.
Chris Rovenstine, vice president of the Knox Company, said in the news release, “These fire departments demonstrated their innovation and dedication to public safety in being leaders in implementing advanced rapid access electronic technology.”
Gloss