Hampton Knox-Box Program

How it works

Hampton Fire & Rescue says Fire Division accessible security boxes are available through Knox-Box. The program gives Hampton Fire & Rescue quick access to a secured building or area, prevents costly repairs caused by forcible entry, and allows the building to be re-secured after entry.

What the money covers

The page does not describe a payment, rebate, or grant. It does not state whether the box, installation, or keys are free, discounted, or paid by the homeowner. It does state that Knox-Box keys are factory restricted and cannot be obtained by a third party.

Who it is for

The page says the system is mandatory for commercial establishments with fire alarm systems and/or sprinkler systems, voluntary for non-alarmed commercial properties, and also available for private residences.

How to apply

The building owner, agent, or responsible party must complete the application, choose the type of box to be installed, forward the application to Knox-Box Systems, and obtain and install the box. Applications can be obtained online at the Knox Box website or by contacting Knox-Box Systems by phone at 800-552-5669.

Installation and follow-up

The box should be placed within 10 feet of the front entrance, to the right of the door at approximately 5 feet high. Knox-Boxes should be anchored to the building with lag bolts, recessed into plaster or stucco, or welded to metal fences, posts, or gates. A Fire Department Alert Decal is included with each Knox-Box and should be placed on the door or door frame adjacent to the Knox-Box. Homes and businesses with Knox-Boxes are noted in the City 911 Center's Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.

Timing and deadlines

No application deadline or closing date is stated. Once the Knox-Box is installed, the owner, agent, or responsible party should contact the Fire Prevention Section at 757-727-1210. Prevention personnel notify the fire station in whose district the property is located, and the station commander or other station personnel schedule a meeting to add the desired contents to the box. An inventory record form is completed and remains in the Knox Box with the keys. If contents or keys are added or removed later, the same procedure applies.

Important limits

Fire Division personnel will not provide an owner, agent, or responsible party access to, or a key for, any Knox-Box System. When access is requested to remove or install contents, personnel verify the person is authorized and a new inventory record form is completed.