Last week, you may remember a van jumped the sidewalk and crashed into the Cornerstone Book Store in Downtown Ottawa, eventually stopping fully in the store. Thankfully, no one was injured seriously. The driver was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. Complicating the accident was the fact the gas meter was hit, causing gas to escape. The entire block of Main Street had to be evacuated. Now, Cornerstone owner, Bruce Beatty, is advising all business owners to install a “Knock Box” which is located on the outside of the building with a key that only the police and fire department have access to. This, because in addition to all the other damage to the Cornerstone Building and the contents inside, first responders had to break the door down to gain access to get to the driver. With a Knock Box, at least this damage could have been avoided.
Many cities suggest some sort of “rapid access” system to help provide first responders with immediate access into secure buildings, campuses, residences and commercial properties when it matters most. Removing barriers to entry reduces injuries to responders and minimizes property damage.
