Locks serve as your primary defense against unauthorized access to your home, business, or car. They are crucial for securing your possessions, keeping your family safe, and maintaining your privacy. However, the effectiveness of a lock depends on how well it is used. To ensure your locks provide the best protection, it’s essential to follow key lock safety tips. Here are some important tips to help keep your property secure.
Choose High-Quality Locks
The first and most crucial step in ensuring lock safety is selecting high-quality locks. Not all locks provide the same level of protection, and using cheap or inferior locks can leave your property at risk. Invest in high-security locks that meet industry standards and are resistant to tampering, picking, and break-ins. Look for locks that can withstand picking, bumping, and drilling. Certified locks with a Grade 1 rating from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) are ideal for both home and business security.
Enhance Security by Upgrading Your Deadbolts
Deadbolts are among the most secure locks available, and upgrading to high-quality deadbolts can greatly improve your home’s security. For added strength, ensure the deadbolt has a one-inch throw (the bolt that extends into the door frame). Choose a deadbolt lock that is keyed on both sides for extra protection. A double-cylinder deadbolt, for instance, requires a key to unlock both the inside and outside, preventing burglars from easily breaking in through a nearby glass window.
Add Smart Locks for Safer, Easier Access
Smart locks are becoming more popular with advancements in technology, offering convenience and enhanced security for homeowners and businesses. With keyless entry options such as smartphones, keypads, and fingerprint recognition, these locks provide added flexibility. Some smart locks even allow you to track who enters or exits your property and send notifications if the door is left unlocked. To reduce the risk of hacking, make sure you choose a trusted brand that offers strong encryption.
Make Sure to Lock All Doors and Windows
It may sound simple, but one of the easiest ways to prevent break-ins is to always ensure that your doors and windows are locked. Many people leave their homes insecure by forgetting to lock up, especially when they’re at home or only leaving for a short period. Whether you’re in the backyard or just running errands, always double-check that your home is securely locked. Additionally, make it a point to lock everything before going to sleep, even in a neighborhood you trust.
Avoid Hiding Spare Keys in Common Locations
Hiding a spare key outside is a common but potentially dangerous practice that can compromise your home’s security. Burglars are familiar with common hiding spots such as under the doormat, in flower pots, or in fake rocks. Instead of hiding a key, it’s safer to leave one with a trusted neighbor or use a secure key lockbox. If you must hide a key outside, choose a discreet location and consider using a high-security lockbox or biometric safe for additional protection.
Rekey Your Locks Immediately After Moving In
Rekeying your locks when moving into a new home or business is an important step for security. The previous owners or tenants might have given keys to others, leaving you unsure of who still has access. Rekeying is an inexpensive way to make sure only you have keys. The process alters the internal mechanism of the lock so that old keys are rendered useless and new keys are created just for you.
Secure Your Spare Keys with a Lock Box
Rather than hiding spare keys outside, install a lock box near your front door for added security. A lock box is a small metal container that uses a combination or key to open, keeping spare keys safe from anyone who doesn’t know the access code. This is an ideal solution for making sure only trusted individuals can retrieve your spare keys, especially useful if you rent out your property or regularly have people coming and going.
Regularly Inspect Your Locks for Optimal Performance
Regular maintenance of your locks is essential to ensure they remain in proper working condition. Over time, weather, wear, and tear can cause locks to become rusty, stiff, or less effective. Make it a habit to check your locks regularly for any signs of damage or malfunction. Lubricate them with graphite powder or a lock-specific lubricant to keep them functioning smoothly. If you notice any issues, such as a lock that’s hard to turn or a sticking key, be sure to repair or replace the lock promptly.
Limit Key Distribution to Trusted Individuals
Sharing keys may feel convenient, but it can create a serious security risk. Even though you trust the people you give keys to, you can’t be certain how many copies they’ve made or who else might have access. Limit key distribution to only trusted individuals, and if you need to provide access to multiple people, consider installing a smart lock or offering temporary access codes. When giving a key to a service worker, always retrieve it afterward and never leave it unattended.
Strengthen Doors with Security Bars or Reinforced Frames
For added protection, consider installing security bars on sliding doors or windows, as they are often targeted in break-ins. Reinforced door frames can also provide extra strength, making it more difficult for intruders to force open doors. Burglars frequently target areas where locks are easy to bypass, so securing these vulnerable points can significantly reduce the risk of a successful break-in.
Add a Peephole or Door Viewer for Added Security
For added security, installing peepholes or door viewers on your entry doors—especially the front door—is a crucial lock safety tip. This allows you to see who’s outside before you open the door, helping you avoid unwanted visitors or potential threats. Modern digital door viewers with video features can even send alerts when someone is approaching, enhancing your safety and providing extra peace of mind, especially when you’re alone at home.
Properly Dispose of Old Keys to Avoid Security Risks
Old keys you no longer use can pose a serious security risk if they fall into the wrong hands. Don’t just throw them in the trash—dispose of them properly by either cutting them up or taking them to a locksmith for destruction. Never leave old keys lying around where someone could find them and potentially gain access to your home or business.
Locks play a vital role in securing your home or property, but their effectiveness relies heavily on proper maintenance and use. By following these lock safety tips, you can greatly reduce the risk of a break-in or unauthorized access to your home or business. Make sure to invest in high-quality locks, regularly maintain them, and always check that your property is securely locked. Proper lock safety offers a simple yet powerful way to ensure your peace of mind, knowing that your home or business is protected from intruders.