City of Salem Introduces Lockbox Registration Program for Salem Adults 60 Years of Age or Older

The population of the City of Salem is approximately 44,000. Close to 20% are 60 years of age or older. If you are 60 or over, have you thought of what will happen if you have an emergency when alone?

Mayor Dominick Pangallo and the Salem Police Department (SPD), in collaboration with Salem for All Ages, are initiating a safety net for such situations. Any Salem community member aged 60 or older may voluntarily register their code-operated lock box containing a key to their house, condo, or apartment with the Salem Police Department. This is a free service designed for peace of mind for individuals, family members, and friends.

Having a lock box registered with the SPD will allow emergency responders to access the home more quickly in the event of an emergency and will also prevent unnecessary damage to the residence. Lock boxes can be purchased online or at a local hardware store.

“As an AARP Age Friendly Community, Salem is committed to our goals of being a livable, safe, and vibrant city, aiming to lift up all our residents, no matter their age or ability,” said Mayor Pangallo, “Launching this important program is one more step toward ensuring that we are a community where we can all have peace of mind and feel secure as we age.  I am grateful toward the Salem for All Ages Task Force and the Salem Police Department for bringing this to fruition.”

To register your lock box, you will need to provide the SPD with your name, address, phone number(s), and the location and code of your lock box. You can provide this information by emailing CIU@salempd.net or by calling 978-744-0171. It is also important for anyone participating in this service to let families and friends know to notify the police if they believe there is an emergency.

The Lockbox Registration Program is for any Salem adult aged 60 or over regardless of health status and ability. This service builds on two existing public safety programs designed for those who are housebound and/or disabled: Are You OK?, which is a wellness check service that provides daily phone calls to residents who qualify and includes a lock box, and a separate Lockbox Program that provides free lockboxes to those who meet eligibility criteria. To find out more about these programs and to apply, visit the Salem Police Department page within the Salem.com website or call  978 744-0171.