HomeMy WebLinkAboutPS 2018-08-06 Item 2D - Discussion - Fire Department Lock Box ProgramCitv of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Public Safety
FROM: Jay Wittwer, Fire Chief
BY: Don Tomaso, Fire Marshal
CC: Mayor Ekberg
DATE: August 1, 2018
SUBJECT' Fire Department Lock Box Program
ISSUE
To reduce City liability for misplaced or lost KNOX Box keys, the fire department has
researched and is requesting to upgrade the City KNOX Box locking system to a keyless
system being introduced January 1, 2019 by the KNOX Company. Other fire department
jurisdictions have incurred considerable expense when faced with misplaced or lost lock box
keys. The fire department is reducing this exposure with this new technology introduced by the
Knox Company.
BACKGROUND
The lock box program was implemented in the mid 1970's with the Supra Company. When the
Supra Company was sold, the new parent company was not responsive to City requests. The
fire department then assessed available lock box products and selected the KNOX Company as
the sole vendor for fire department lock boxes within the City in early 2000.
The fire department will be seeking a Capital Improvement program for the 2019/2020 budget
cycle to restore the KNOX Box program to operation within the City and utilize this keyless
technology. Businesses have been patiently waiting for their keys to be placed back in their
KNOX Boxes for fire department use.
ANALYSIS
The KNOX Box program has been invaluable to the fire department by allowing quick access to
commercial properties and some residential homes during emergencies. Fire unit out -of -service
times have increased since the keys were removed, and restoring the program will again reduce
the units on -scene time with increased unit reliability.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The anticipated funding for this project is currently estimated at $550,000 to complete the
project. Currently, staff is working with WICA on the insurance claim that was filed to determine
the final amount that will be required from the City.
RECOMMENDATION
Discussion only at this time. Staff will be presenting this during the upcoming budget cycle for
the 2019/2020 budget process for support from the Council to restore this essential program to
increase fire unit reliability.
ATTACHMENTS
KNOX Box brochure
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