In May, 2014, the city of Garland published information about the Garland Police Department’s residential lockbox program which speeds access to senior adults in their home during emergencies. Additionally, the program reduces property damage, as first responders do not have to force entry into homes to respond to an emergency call.
To qualify for the program, which is free of charge, Garland residents must be age 65 or above or under 65 with a major medical issue that could render them incapacitated or unconscious.
To register, complete the Lockbox Program Application and submit to the Garland Police Department.
Applications are also available at the front desk of the police department or in person from any Neighborhood Police Officer. Completed applications can be dropped off at the GPD front desk or given to NPO.
Upon approval, the NPO will contact the participant to review the program. Participant will give spare house key to the NPO at which time the NPO will place it in the lockbox and set the combination.
The NPO will determine the best location for the lockbox, which will not be readily visible from the street. Participants are responsible for the cost of the key.
The lockbox key will be accessed only during an emergency call when responders can’t make entry without force and participants may opt out of the program at any time by contacting their NPO.