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Crime Watch Articles Archive: Residential Lock Box Program

RESIDENTIAL LOCKBOX PROGRAM

The Garland Police Department’s residential lock box program is designed to expedite access to senior adults in their own homes during medical or other emergencies. The lockbox program also reduces the likelihood of property damaged caused by first responders forcing entry into a home in response to an emergency call.

ELIGIBILITY

The lockbox program is open to all Garland residents who either live alone or must be left alone on a regular basis and:

  • Are age 65 and above
  • Are under 65, with a major medical issue that could render them incapacitated or unconscious

HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS

  • The eligible participant will complete a Lockbox Program Application (PDF) to the Garland Police Department. Applications can be found on the Garland Police Website or picked up at the front desk of the Police Department or by contacting our Neighborhood Police Officer (NPO), Officer Barnes, at BarnesT@garlandtx.gov.
  • Once the application is approved, Officer Barnes will contact the participant at their home to review the program.
  • The participant will provide a spare house key to the officer and place the key inside the lockbox and set the combination.
  • The officer will determine the best location for the lockbox that allows quick access for emergency responders but is not readily visible to the typical street or pedestrian traffic.
  • The lockbox will only be used during an emergency call, and when responders can’t make entry without using force. At no other time will the lockbox be used or will entry be made without authorization.
  • There is no cost to participate in the Lockbox Program, other than the cost of a spare key.
  • A participant may withdraw from the Lockbox Program at any time by contacting Officer Barnes. After the key is returned to the participant, the empty lockbox will be removed from the residence and returned to the Police Department.

 

This program is paid for and sponsored by the Garland Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association.