Emergency Responder Codes

This guide provides instructions for setting up first responder codes in Alloy Access, ensuring that emergency personnel can access common area doors in your community at any time. Before starting, verify that all doors are correctly set up in the system.

First Responder Codes

In emergencies, it's crucial that responders gain immediate access to community common area doors. By following the instructions below, you'll enable emergency personnel to open doors at any hour. Ensure doors are properly configured before proceeding.

Creating Schedules for Emergency Responders

1. Go to the Schedules page and click the "Add Schedule" button.

2. Name the schedule "Emergency Responders."

3. In the "Intervals" section, select all days of the week and set the start and end times to cover the full 24-hour day (e.g., 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM) to facilitate 24/7 access.

4. Click "Save."

Creating Access Levels for Emergency Responders:

1. Navigate to the Access Levels page.

2. Click "Add Access Level," entering "Emergency Responder" as the name.

3. Click "Save."

4. In the Settings, ensure the "Sync to Intercom Contact List" option remains unchecked.

5. Click "Add Door," choose a reader from the Doors dropdown, and connect it to the "Emergency Responder" schedule from the Schedule dropdown.

Creating an Emergency Responder Member

1. Create a member profile named "Emergency Services" or similar.

2. Assign the "Emergency Responder" access level to them.

3. Generate the desired credentials, such as a PIN code and/or a card/fob.

4. Assign the generated PIN and/or card/fob, which will be placed in a KnoxBox for emergency use.

Emergency responders can retrieve the PIN and/or card/fob from the KnoxBox upon arrival. It's essential to test the credentials on your readers to ensure successful future use.

Please make sure after using an emergency credential that the credential is securely stored in the Knox Box and set in the disabled position to prevent any unintended access

Where should first responder credentials be stored?

Store them in a secure KnoxBox or similar lockbox that only first responders can access. Creating a first responder code is beneficial, but be aware of the trade-off: unauthorized access to the credential allows 24/7 community access.

Why can't I create a first responder credential in SMW for both unit locks and common area doors?

Although it might seem time consuming, the manual creation and distribution process for first responder codes is deliberate. It confirms the site's commitment to having the system and allows for communication about potential trade-offs. As of Mar 25, 2024 , we consciously decide not to automate this process for common areas to maintain careful control and oversight.