Security Tips

Facts

• Over 55% of residential burglaries happen using the victim’s front or back door.
• About a thirds of burglaries happen in daytime.
• A burglary occurs in the U.S. every 13.7 seconds.
• The chance of your home being burglarized is 1 to 6.
• Over 50% of burglaries will leave your locks with no evidence of forced entry (using methods like lock picking, key bumping, unauthorized keys or other devices which leave no outward marks).

Test Your Security

• Does/ has anyone else ever had access to your keys?
• Does the keys you carry now protect against unauthorized key duplication without I.D. verification?
• Does your current locks provide physical protection against lock picking, key bumping, drilling or other forced entry attempts?

Security Tips

• Choose a high quality dead-bolt and make sure its locked at all times. The bolt should extend for at least 1 inch into the strike plate. Spirit Locksmith recommends Medeco and Mul-T-Lock.
• Entrance doors should have multiple locking points (dead-bolt locks + door knob locks).
• Choose solid wood or steel doors. A hollow wood door can be easily kicked in.
• If there is a glass window 40 inches or closer to a lock, install a double sided cylinder lock that must be opened by a key on both sides.
• Locks must be re-keyed or changed after you move in.
• Keep doors, windows and vulnerable areas well lit at night. Consider using automatic timers or motion detectors for turning lights on and off.
• Remove tall trees and branches next to your home to prevent access to the second floor.
• Secure all windows and sliding glass doors with an  additional security bar.
• In apartment buildings, always make sure common area doors are locked and secure; Allow lobby access only to individuals you know.
• In office buildings or work places with security levels a Master Key System can offer different access level to different individuals.
• When away from home never make it obvious: leave lights and a stereo / T.V. working, ask a neighbor or relative to park his car in your driveway, ask a friend to pick up your mail and newspaper. To a burglar it gives the perception you’re home.