Repairing and Protecting Locks, Keys and Safes
Four Home Security Mistakes to Avoid
Duane Ramirez
Keeping your home safe from intruders isn't just a matter of installing a security system and locking your doors. Developing good security habits is an important part of home protection. Establishing the right routines will help you avoid these common security mistakes.
Creating spare key temptation
In order to avoid being locked out, some people like to hide a spare key outside the house. This might be under a doormat, in a flowerpot, or under a stone in the garden. Unfortunately, these hiding locations are usually obvious. Instead, leave your spare key with a trusted neighbour or family member. If you do get locked out and can't get to your spare key, you can call a 24-hour locksmith to get you into your home or a local car locksmith to get you into your car. The small chance of being locked out isn't worth the risk of leaving a key vulnerable.
Leaving alternative access routes
Many people who secure their homes thoroughly at the ground floor level don't pay enough attention to security for upper floors. For instance, homeowners doing yard work or roof repairs sometimes leave stepladders outside. This provides a possible intruder with easy access to upper floors that might offer an easier way to get into the building. Similarly, parked cars or other vehicles underneath upper windows could provide an easy way for an unwelcome visitor to get in.
Talking about travel plans
An upcoming trip can be very exciting, but in a social media age it isn't always a great idea to talk about it when you don't know who might be reading. Sharing posts about your upcoming vacation on social media isn't wise; leave out the dates and details to prevent possible thieves from learning when you're going to be away from home.
Staying in the dark
More than anything else, what deters thieves is the possibility of being seen. If your home lacks exterior lighting, would-be burglars will feel like they can approach without the risk of being spotted. Motion sensor lights and similar security lights help improve outdoor visibility, deterring intruders and helping to keep you safe in your yard or driveway. Because you seldom will see the immediate benefits of these systems, they're easy to ignore or neglect. Don't let yourself get into that habit: install outdoor lights if you don't have them and keep them well-maintained and replaced if you do.
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Hi, my name is Olive, and when I was a kid, my dad was a safe manufacturer. I used to love being in his welding shop or accompanying him to jobs to make locks onsite. When I grew up, I did not follow in his footsteps, but I owned a restaurant, and I always thought of my then late father when I put cash into the safe at the end of the night. Through years of being a business owner – sometimes in a not very safe neighbourhood – I learned the importance of locks. I also learned how they can break, how to repair them and how to ensure they in working order. To honor my dad, I wanted to make a blog about locks and safes. Whether you are a business owner, a homeowner or someone curious about becoming a locksmith, I hope you enjoy reading these posts!