The Rapid Entry System (RES) is a master key lock system where the key is on the fire apparatus and can unlock a secured box on a property in the case of an emergency. This system applies to buildings with automatic alarm and sprinkler systems, multi-family residential units, including senior citizen housing, high-rise buildings and commercial and industrial buildings.
Mayor Perez says, "This eliminates the firefighters having to force their way into a unit. This means a faster response and in the case of an emergency, seconds can save lives."
Chief Teale says, "This also reduces the chance of firefighters getting injured and eliminates damaging doors, which can cost up to $5,000 to replace."
Hartford is the fourth city or town in Connecticut to enact this system. Bridgeport, East Hartford and West Hartford already utilize RES. Hartford is also only the 10th city nationwide to adopt RES, following Albany, New York, Fort Worth, Texas, Freemont, California, Louisville, Kentucky, Orange, New Jersey, and Peoria, Illinois.
The operation and enforcement of this system are important. According to the Fire Marshal's office, the property owner shall keep the keys to the residences in the secured lock box in order to allow unobstructed entry. The property owner is required to purchase this lock box equipment from an approved vendor. There is a $100.00 application fee to the City and there is a $100.00 penalty if property owners of the above mentioned types of properties don't comply.
