By Page H. Gifford
Falls in the home are among the most common emergencies facing older adults, and they can quickly become more dangerous when rescue crews cannot get through a locked door.
Nationally, falls account for about 17% of all EMS calls involving adults 65 and older, according to a CDC-authored study using National EMS Information System data. Most of those falls — about 60 percent — happen at home.
In Fluvanna, Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire & Rescue officials say falls made up the overwhelming majority of their calls, estimating the number at about 90 percent.
To meet this challenge, the ‘Unlocking Help’ program is designed to help emergency responders reach residents quickly when every second matters.
The program allows residents to securely register a home lockbox, entry code, spare key, garage door opener or other access point with the Fluvanna Emergency Communications Center. If emergency medical services are called to the home, dispatchers can provide the information only to the responders sent to that address.
The goal is simple: to avoid the delay and damage that can happen when a resident is unable to reach the door during a medical emergency.
When someone is incapacitated, unconscious or unable to unlock the door, rescue crews may have to wait for the fire department to arrive and force entry. Even if EMS can see someone unconscious inside a locked home, responders still need legal and safe access before they can enter.
The county first announced the program in 2023, and it has continued to grow since its launch. It can be especially helpful for older residents, people who live alone, or anyone with a medical condition that could leave them unable to open the door. It may also help households where one spouse or family member may be away when an emergency occurs.
Participants purchase and install their own lockbox or use another secure entry system, then register the access information with dispatchers. The information is used only during an emergency response.
The program also encourages residents to keep a Vital Health Packet on their refrigerator. The free, voluntary packet gives EMS quick access to important health information, including medications, allergies and pre-existing conditions, if the patient is unable to communicate.
To register access information, contact the Fluvanna County Sheriff’s Office at (434) 589-8211 or email the office with your address, access instructions and any pet alerts.
Free Unlocking Help refrigerator packets are available at several county locations, including the Fluvanna County Public Library, Jefferson Pharmacy locations, Ace Hardware at the Lake and the Lake Monticello Golf Pro Shop.
Secure key boxes that hold a door key can typically be purchased for $10 to $30 through local hardware stores or major online retailers.
