RCMP investigating mischief to fire department lockboxes

Mar 24, 2022 | 3:35 PM

Kelowna RCMP have launched an investigation into mischief to fire department lockboxes on the exterior of residential properties.

The fire department told Mounties that property managers have reported that lockboxes have been found damaged and, in some cases, keys and fobs were stolen from them.

Fire lockboxes are mounted on the outside of buildings with keys inside to allow fire crews entry and access in the case of an emergency.

The RCMP received the reports, which date back to February, and have launched an investigation into 16 separate incidents involving tampered lockboxes.

It was noted that nine of those cases were incidents of mischief, and the other seven resulted in keys being stolen.

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All the incidents involve buildings in the Rutland, Springfield and Quail Ridge areas.

A map of the reported incidents where fire lockboxes were tampered with. (Image courtesy of the Kelowna RCMP)

“The fire lockboxes are not owned by the fire department, they are owned by the buildings,” stated Paul Johnson, Fire Prevention Officer for the Kelowna Fire Department.

“The Kelowna Fire Department in partnership with the Kelowna RCMP, is sending a letter to property owners of buildings, advising that specific lockboxes have been subject to damage. The letter includes information about how to update the locks on their existing lockbox, where to purchase a new lockbox and tips on how to enhance security to reduce unauthorized entry.”

RCMP said a suspicious incident reported to the fire department on March 8 involved an unknown male suspect who was seen tampering with a lockbox at a residential building on Houghton Rd. The incident occurred between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., and witnesses reported the suspect appeared well dressed and greeted people as they walked past.

“We are working closely with our partners at the Kelowna Fire Department,” said Cpl. Tammy Lobb, Media Relations Officer for the Kelowna RCMP.

“We encourage property managers to check their lockboxes for signs of tampering and if access has been gained, report it to the fire department as well as police. If you see anyone accessing the fire lockboxes, ask them for identification. Both fire department personnel and locksmiths will carry identification. Non-authorized persons should be reported to the RCMP immediately”.

The RCMP ask that anyone who has information relating to these acts of mischief and theft contact the Kelowna detachment at 250-762-3300, or to file an anonymous report through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

by Liam Verster

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