A few small, one-time home adjustments can meaningfully speed up a first responder's ability to reach you in an emergency.
Practical steps
- Make sure your house number is clearly visible from the street, including at night (a lit or reflective number helps)
- Keep a path from the door to common areas clear of clutter
- Consider a lockbox with a spare key (common models used by real estate agents work well) so responders don't need to force entry
- Let a neighbor know where a spare key or lockbox code is, in case responders need it relayed
If you have a security system, provide your local fire and police department with any relevant access codes or contact preferences in advance.