In the past month our volunteers encountered a situation which delayed response vehicles from entering and assisting one of our rural property owners. This delay was caused by a closed and padlocked driveway gate. Due to the stressful situation, the property owner could not find the key to unlock the padlock.
Because of the ongoing medical situation and the locked entrance, our EMS volunteers were required to climb over this obstacle to make entrance and give emergency aid. Other department volunteers were then required to cut the padlock to allow access not only for them, but also the ambulance and other emergency responders.
High Country Fire-Rescue reminds all our rural residents to ensure every member of their family is aware of the location of such a key, or the combination, to allow for quick and easy access to your property during your time of need.
We suggest you have at least one key always located in the same place, and practice emergency drills monthly for fire, medical, and natural events to ensure everyone knows where to meet and where such keys or combinations are stored for quick access.