Knox Boxes Now Available for Freehold Borough Homes

Knox boxes are now for more than just businesses and realtors in .

Residents now have the options of adding a knox box to their homes.

These plastic or metal boxes displayed on the outside of a business or home, hold a key to gain entrance to the property. Protected by a combination, knox boxes allow people to access a property without having to wait for an owner or key holder or damaging the home in emergencies.

Councilwoman Sharon Shutzer, brought the idea of knox boxes for homes to the council at the Jan. 17 .

The idea was born after a neighbor contacted her with a story about a resident who fell ill at home alone. Neighbors became concerned when a borough resident stopped responding to friends for several hours.

“It was necessary to break-into her home to get to her,” explained Shutzer.

Having a knox box on homes will help first responders get to residents in-need faster, and limit damage done to their property.

“This is a great program and I thank the resident who suggested this,” said Shutzer.

Currently there are over 181 businesses already using this system. All Freehold Borough knox boxes are registered with the .

According to Garry Jackson, fire official, the least expensive residential box costs $159.00 plus an additional $13.00 for shipping.

"The residential Knox-Box is purchased directly from the Knox Company by the resident who is also responsible for mounting the box. Freehold Borough does not charge any fee’s to residents who voluntarily chose to participate in the program," explained Jackson.

Residents who are interested in getting a knox box for their home are asked to call and ask for Jackson who is running this program. He can be reached directly at 732-462-3626.