On a pre-incident plan, what is the common term for a secure place to store keys?

• A. Lock box
• B. Key cabinet
• C. Key locker
• D. Safe deposit box

Answer: (A)

Access control and rapid entry are critical in pre-incident planning. The usual secure storage for building keys is a lock box, a durable, tamper-resistant container mounted on the exterior of the building. It holds the keys needed to gain entry and is opened only by authorized responders with a key or code. This setup lets crews retrieve keys quickly at the scene without forcing entry, while providing accountability and controlled access.

Other options aren’t as suited for on-scene needs: a key cabinet is typically inside or not weatherproof and not designed for rapid exterior access; a key locker isn’t a standard term or solution in fire service practice; a safe deposit box is in a bank and not practical for emergency access.