Maintaining Emergency Access to Gated Properties

With the large number of privately gated properties in our neighborhood the CTCA Board of Directors thought it would be wise to contact the fire department for more information to pass along to our neighborhood residents, regarding accessing these properties in the event of an emergency or wildfire. Here is what they wrote to us:

For properties within the jurisdiction of Lake Travis Fire Rescue/TCESD6 that are secured with automated gates, residents have a couple of options available to ensure that access for emergency response personnel is not hindered. Below are 2 common technologies in place across the district that can help avoid property access issues during emergency dispatches. 

Please bear in mind that technology changes rapidly, and residents are always encouraged to contact LTFR directly before purchasing/installing any access devices designed for use by Police, Fire, or EMS.

Knox Gate & Key Switch

A Gate & Switch Key from the brand “Knox,” is the device preferred by Lake Travis Fire Rescue to be installed on a residential gate, when possible. Full product details can be found here.

Here's how they work:

• This system ensures that first responders can bypass perimeter barriers quickly in critical situations, potentially saving lives and property. They are typically installed at the entrance of gated communities, apartment complexes, and even individual homes with gated driveways.

• The switch functions as an “override” for electronic gates and other lower voltage equipment, such as pedestrian gates and parking garages. It operates with a special Knox master key, which is controlled by Lake Travis Fire Rescue.

• Knox gate switches can be purchased from the Knox Company directly. All purchases must specify the responding fire department at the time of purchase. Our department is listed as “Travis Co ESD #6/Lake Travis Fire Res - Lakeway, TX” on the Knox site.  

Automated gates with “pin pads” and access codes

Many homes have existing gates that rely on designated security codes to open. While many manufacturers have “emergency access” protocols built-in to these devices, property owners are still highly encouraged to engage with LTFR to ensure that up to date codes are available to response units. 

• Residents can reach LTFR by phone to update access codes. If email is preferred, it is recommended that a picture be taken of access codes and attached to the message (as opposed to simply typing the code in the body of the message). 

• The information is directly entered into the emergency dispatch system, and will not be written down or stored in any other software applications, in the effort of maintaining data security. 

• Any updates to access codes already on file with LTFR can also be relayed via phone.