Why emergency access matters more than you might think
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: emergencies don’t wait for convenient moments. They happen when we’re alone, when we’ve fallen, when we’re unconscious, or when we simply can’t reach the front door.
I’ve heard too many stories like these from friends and family:
- The gentleman who had a heart attack in his garden but couldn’t call out to paramedics at his front door
- The lady who fell in her bathroom and lay there for hours because her daughter couldn’t get inside to check on her
- The widower whose smoke alarm was going off, but firefighters had to break down his door to ensure he was safe
Each time, I think the same thing: a simple lockbox could have changed everything.
What Is a Lockbox?
A lockbox is a secure, weatherproof container that attaches to your home’s exterior. Inside, you keep a spare key that emergency services, trusted family members, or caregivers can access using a code you provide.
Think of it as giving emergency responders (and your loved ones) a way to help you when you can’t help yourself.
Why This Matters for Your Family
When you install a lockbox, you’re not just thinking about emergencies – you’re thinking about your family’s peace of mind.
Your adult children won’t have to worry about how to check on you during a storm when phone lines are down. Your neighbour won’t have to call a locksmith when you don’t answer the door for your regular coffee catch-up. Emergency responders won’t lose crucial time trying to find another way into your home.
It’s another way of taking care of the people who care about you.
Choosing the Right Lockbox
Not all lockboxes are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
Security Features:
- Heavy-duty construction that can’t be easily broken
- Weather-resistant materials for New Zealand conditions
- A combination lock
- Mounting hardware that secures firmly to your home
Size and Placement:
- Large enough for your house key plus any security system codes
- Positioned where emergency services can easily find it but not visible to casual passersby
- Usually best placed near your front door but slightly hidden from street view
Popular Options in New Zealand: Most hardware stores carry reliable lockboxes from brands like Master Lock or Abus. Expect to spend $30-80 for a quality unit that will last for years.
Installation Made Simple
Installing a lockbox isn’t complicated, but here are some practical tips:
Where to Mount It:
- Near your main entrance but not in plain sight from the street
- About shoulder height for easy access
- On a solid surface – brick, concrete, or sturdy weatherboard
- Avoid areas where it might be knocked or damaged
What Code to Choose:
- Use a combination that’s meaningful to you but not obvious to others
- Avoid your birth year, address numbers, or phone digits
- Share the code only with trusted family members and keep a record of who has it
- Consider changing it annually or if circumstances change
What to Include:
- Your main house key
- Security system codes written on weatherproof paper
- Brief instructions for any tricky locks or security features
Who Should Know About Your Lockbox?
This is important: your lockbox is only helpful if the right people know it exists and how to use it.
Essential People to Tell:
- Your adult children or closest family members
- Trusted neighbours who check on you regularly
- Your doctor’s office (they can pass information to emergency services)
- Home care providers or regular visitors
How to Share the Information: Include lockbox details in your Final Wishes Manual under emergency contacts. Write something like: “Emergency key access: Lockbox located near front door, combination [####]. Shared with [list names and dates].”
Beyond Emergencies: Everyday Benefits
While we install lockboxes thinking about medical emergencies, they’re helpful in many everyday situations:
- When you’re stuck in traffic and your cleaner arrives early
- If you accidentally lock yourself out while gardening
- When your grandchildren visit unexpectedly and you’re not home
- During power outages when automatic garage doors won’t work
It’s not just about crisis planning – it’s about making life a bit easier for everyone who cares about you.
Maintaining Your Lockbox
Like any safety measure, lockboxes need occasional attention:
Regular Checks:
- Test the combination every few months
- Ensure the key still works in your locks (especially if you’ve had work done)
- Check that weather hasn’t damaged the contents
- Verify the mounting is still secure
Annual Review:
- Update codes if needed
- Replace keys if locks have been changed
- Review who has access and update your records
- Consider whether the location still makes sense
A Small Step With Big Impact
Installing a lockbox might seem like a small thing, but it’s one of those simple preparations that can make an enormous difference when it matters most.
Like completing your Final Wishes Manual, it’s about giving your family tools to help you and reducing their worry during difficult times. It’s about maintaining your independence while acknowledging that sometimes we all need help.
Getting Started
Most New Zealand hardware stores stock quality lockboxes – Bunnings, Mitre 10, and local hardware shops all carry suitable options. If you’re not comfortable with installation, most handyperson services will mount one for a small fee.
The important thing is taking that first step. Your family’s peace of mind (and your own safety) is worth the small effort involved.
Remember to Update Your Records
Once your lockbox is installed, remember to:
- Add the details to your Final Wishes Manual
- Include the information in your emergency contact lists
- Let your family know it’s there and how to use it
- Consider mentioning it to your local police station (some areas keep voluntary registers for emergency reference)
Need help incorporating lockbox information into your Final Wishes planning? I’m here to guide you through all aspects of emergency preparedness and final wishes documentation. Because taking care of yourself is another way of taking care of those you love.
