Signs that you need better security
How do you know when you need better security? Is it obvious or did someone have to tell you? Maybe an event occurred where you suddenly didn’t feel as safe as you once were. The realization that more protection is needed is different for all of us. Here at Locksmith Mooresville, we offer these tips to help you decide of added security is right for you at this time.
Sometimes, all it takes is a news item showing a break-in, burglary or worse, to get you to think about adding extra lock protection for your property. Maybe a friend or family member was a recent crime victim and the experience of that got you to think of your own situation. There was a time in the not so distant past when doors didn’t have to be locked and you could trust neighbors and friends with house keys. You could even leave windows open a bit for some fresh night air. In today’s world, it pays to be vigilant and always aware of your surroundings and to take nothing for granted.
Start here…
One thing you can start practicing immediately is the art of being aware of your situation and surroundings. Have you ever noticed shoppers in the grocery store leaving their carts, even for a moment, in order to get a box of something down the aisle? Not only are their items left alone but so are purses, shopping bags and sometimes even small children. The same goes for loading those same groceries into the car; momentary distraction is all that is needed for a thief or child snatcher to take advantage of you while you are thinking of something else or looking the other direction. When you are home, watch to see who is standing or parking nearby. Does anything or anyone look out of place or suspicious? When you are pumping gas, do you close your car door and keep your ignition keys handy and out of the starter? Do you lock your car doors when driving in questionable neighborhoods or when strangers are walking nearby? If all this sounds like paranoia, then you need to be concerned; there is a big difference between abject fear and just being careful. This goes for everyone; not just women, teens or elderly.
Make good habits
Good habits are learned by repetition. That goes for good security habits, as well. You can learn these habits yourself, and help your children and partner to do the same. Start by locking doors and security gates when home. Draw curtains when it gets dark. Many a child has been snatched from their homes and even their beds by crooks wanting to exploit them and who watched their habits and movements from behind a bush or from the street. It’s always wise to have a porch light or motion sensor light outside the front door or garage. This is especially true if you live or work in a not so safe neighborhood. Bear in mind that crime happens in all demographics and not just inner cities. Here in Mooresville, NC we have a wide range of housing and commercial space options in all price ranges and neighborhoods so stress to your loved ones the need to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
What about your locks?
Start using them! Apply that deadbolt when home. Always lock your garage door leading inside the house; even if you are home. Someone with the same garage door remote as you can innocently open your garage door and anyone can then walk into your home if that door is not secured. You’ll find that the more you practice locking doors and windows, the more second nature it becomes. Do you have a deadbolt? If so, use it. If not, get one! Avoid the double cylinder deadbolt locks as you will need a key in order to open them and in case of fire or another emergency, you’ll be hard pressed to get out, and find your key. A strong single bolt deadbolt lock will serve the purpose nicely; just remember to use it!
Too many keys
Would you like a fresh start to keeping control over your key distribution? Try rekeying your door locks at home and at your business. This will allow you to keep your same locks but it does give you a fresh start as far as key distribution is concerned. The act of rekeying changes the interior pins and springs so that new keys have to be issued for those locks. You can now start over and give your kids, spouse or other trusted neighbor or family member their own key. This makes all older versions of the key obsolete. If you think about it, it can be frightening just how many possible key copies are “out there” especially when you count realtors, property managers, neighbors, delivery persons, builders, contractors, former tenants, former owners, etc. This rekeying idea also works for local businesses and can involve not only front and back doors, but interior doors, cabinets, desks, file cabinets, private offices, store rooms and even bathrooms.
Add video surveillance
Adding CCTV is never a bad idea. If you have a shoplifting problem at your business or any security issues at your residence, video proof can go a long way towards finding and bringing the culprits to justice. In fact, the mere presence of security cameras is often enough of a deterrent to stop a crime of any size, from pilfering to much worse. It’s even possible to install remote access video so that you can watch your property interior and exterior live from any smart phone or other device no matter where you are located.
Bump proof locks
Adding high security locks that cannot be picked, pried, bumped or even shot open is a wise choice. Surprisingly, these locks are not expensive and many models are available from different manufacturers. Speak to your locksmith experts of choice and let them know your security concerns. They’ll be able to recommend affordable and high-quality solutions that fit your needs and budget.