All posts by lskeyoakpark

About lskeyoakpark

Because you live in Oak Park, locksmith service is yours any time you want or need it. When you need an exceptional locksmith in Oak Park, just call our shop and one of our best will be on his way to you! Locksmith & Key Oak Park is one local shop that values our clients and it shows in everything we do for you. Our licensed, bonded and insured lock specialists can do everything from making key copies to adding biometric entry systems to your retail store. Address: 41 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302 Call our Oak Park locksmiths for fast responding, 24-hour emergency service, very affordable rates, and for mobile service that includes everything for your residential, commercial and automotive lock and key needs. While we can easily service all brands of lock hardware, our technicians are proud to work with brands like Master, Sentry, Kwikset, Ace, Schlage, Sentex, Marlock, Baldwin, Fichet and many others. And no matter what service you need from a locksmith, Oak Park professionals from our shop can provide it for you. Choose from lock rekeys, ignition change outs, high security locks, panic bars, safe repair, break-in repairs, broken key extraction, gun safes and dozens more. Call Locksmith & Key Oak Park today and get your locks and keys in great shape! Call (708) 433-4802

Locked Out Of Your Car?

Getting locked out of your car can be a frustrating and stressful experience. Whether it’s due to a misplaced key, a malfunctioning lock, or an accidental lockout, finding yourself on the wrong side of a locked car door can disrupt your plans and cause inconvenience. However, it’s important to stay calm and know what steps to take in such situations. In this article, we will explore practical tips and solutions to help you handle being locked out of your car efficiently and regain access to your vehicle.

  1. Assess the Situation

When you realize you are locked out of your car, take a moment to assess the situation. Check if any windows or doors are open or if you have access to a spare key. If there is no immediate solution, it’s important to remain calm and focused to determine the best course of action.

  1. Contact a Professional Locksmith

In most lockout situations, contacting a professional locksmith is the recommended and safest option. Locksmiths have the necessary tools and expertise to unlock car doors without causing damage. Research and keep the contact information of a reliable and reputable locksmith in your area. Call them and explain your situation, providing details such as your location and the make and model of your car. A professional locksmith will arrive promptly and assist you in gaining access to your vehicle.

  1. Utilize Roadside Assistance Services

If you have roadside assistance coverage through your insurance provider or an automobile club, such as AAA, consider using their services. Roadside assistance often includes lockout services, and they can dispatch a professional to help unlock your car. Contact the roadside assistance provider and provide them with the necessary details to expedite the process.

  1. Check for Spare Key Options

If you have access to a spare key, either through a family member, friend, or a hidden key compartment, this can be a convenient solution. If the spare key is within reach, use it to unlock the car. Alternatively, if you have a keyless entry system, you may be able to unlock the car remotely using the spare key’s fob or smartphone app.

  1. Explore DIY Methods

In certain lockout situations, there are DIY methods you can try to regain access to your car. However, it’s important to exercise caution and be mindful of potential damage to your vehicle. Here are a few common methods:

a. Wire Hanger Method: Straighten a wire hanger and bend one end to form a hook. Insert the hooked end between the weather stripping and the car window. Maneuver the hanger to hook onto the lock mechanism and gently pull it up to unlock the door. This method works best with older car models.

b. Shoestring Method: If your car has a traditional lock mechanism that requires manual pulling, you can use a shoestring or a similar flexible and sturdy string. Tie a small loop or slipknot in the middle of the string and insert it through the top corner of the car door, near the window. Maneuver the string to loop around the lock and pull it upward to unlock the door.

c. Inflatable Wedge Method: This method involves using an inflatable wedge, commonly used by professional locksmiths. Insert the deflated wedge between the door and the car frame, gradually inflating it to create a gap. Once there is enough space, use a long, slim tool like a coat hanger or a rod to reach the door lock or the unlock button inside the vehicle.

Note: These DIY methods should only be attempted if you are confident in your abilities and understand the potential risks involved. Improper use of tools or excessive force can damage your car’s door or locking mechanism.

  1. Preventive Measures

Being locked out of your car can happen to anyone, but taking preventive measures can help minimize the risk. Consider the following:

a. Spare Key: Keep a spare key in a safe place, such as with a trusted family member, friend, or in a secure key lockbox.

b. Key Duplication: Have duplicate keys made and keep them in separate locations, such as your wallet or purse, a keychain, or a key-safe device.

c. Keyless Entry Systems: If your car offers keyless entry or smartphone-enabled access, ensure you have the necessary apps and backups set up.

d. Professional Inspection: If you notice issues with your car’s locking mechanism, such as difficulty turning the key or a sticking lock, have it inspected and repaired by a professional locksmith or an automotive technician.

Finding yourself locked out of your car can be an unexpected and inconvenient situation. By staying calm and following these tips, you can effectively handle a car lockout. Remember to prioritize safety and consider contacting a professional locksmith or utilizing roadside assistance services to ensure a secure and damage-free resolution. Taking preventive measures and being prepared can also help minimize the chances of future lockouts, allowing you to maintain peace of mind and hassle-free journeys.

Effect Of Weather On Locks

The weather can have a significant effect on locks, both in terms of their operation and their longevity. Changes in temperature, humidity, and precipitation can all affect the way locks function and their ability to protect your property. In this article, we’ll explore the various ways in which weather can impact locks, and what steps you can take to mitigate these effects.

Image by: eyeball3000

Temperature

One of the most significant ways in which weather affects locks is through changes in temperature. When temperatures drop, metal locks can contract, making it more difficult to turn the key or unlock the door. In extreme cases, the lock may freeze entirely, rendering it unusable until it thaws out. Conversely, when temperatures rise, metal locks can expand, causing them to become loose or difficult to lock. This can make it easier for intruders to break into your property.

To prevent these temperature-related issues, it’s essential to maintain your locks properly. Regular lubrication can help to prevent the metal from sticking, ensuring that the lock operates smoothly no matter what the temperature. Additionally, if you live in an area with extremely low temperatures, you may want to consider investing in a lock that is specifically designed to withstand these conditions.

Humidity

Humidity is another factor that can affect locks, especially those made from metal. High levels of humidity can cause metal to rust, corrode, and deteriorate over time, making it more difficult for the lock to function correctly. In addition, the moisture in the air can cause the locking mechanism to become stiff, making it harder to turn the key.

To mitigate these effects, it’s important to keep your locks dry whenever possible. Avoid exposing them to excessive moisture or humidity, and consider installing a dehumidifier in areas where humidity is high. Additionally, you can apply a rust inhibitor to your locks to help protect them from the effects of moisture.

Precipitation

Finally, precipitation can also have an impact on locks. Rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation can cause locks to become stuck, especially if the locking mechanism is exposed to the elements. Additionally, water can seep into the lock, causing rust and corrosion that can affect the lock’s longevity.

To prevent these issues, it’s important to ensure that your locks are protected from the elements as much as possible. This may mean installing a cover over the lock or moving the lock to a more sheltered location. Additionally, if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or snowfall, it may be worth investing in a lock that is specifically designed to withstand these conditions.

Let’s explore in more detail the effects of weather on locks and how you can take specific steps to protect your locks.

Temperature:

Temperature changes can have a significant effect on locks, especially in extreme weather conditions. During the winter months, temperatures can drop to freezing levels, causing the metal in locks to contract. This can make it difficult to turn the key or unlock the door, and in some cases, the lock may freeze completely, making it impossible to operate. In contrast, during the summer months, temperatures can rise to extreme levels, causing the metal in locks to expand. This can make the lock mechanism loose or difficult to lock, making it easier for intruders to break in.

To prevent these temperature-related issues, it’s crucial to keep your locks well-lubricated. Use a high-quality lubricant to ensure that the lock operates smoothly, no matter what the temperature is. Additionally, if you live in an area with extremely low or high temperatures, you may want to consider investing in a lock that is specifically designed to withstand these conditions. These locks are typically made from materials that are less likely to contract or expand in extreme temperatures, ensuring that the lock operates smoothly throughout the year.

Humidity:

Humidity is another factor that can affect the longevity of your locks. High levels of humidity can cause metal locks to rust, corrode, and deteriorate over time. The moisture in the air can also cause the locking mechanism to become stiff, making it harder to turn the key or lock the door.

To mitigate the effects of humidity on your locks, you can take several steps. First, avoid exposing your locks to excessive moisture or humidity. This means keeping your locks dry whenever possible, especially during humid months. You can also install a dehumidifier in your home to reduce humidity levels. Additionally, applying a rust inhibitor to your locks can help protect them from the effects of moisture and humidity.

Precipitation:

Precipitation, such as rain or snow, can also impact the operation of your locks. Water can seep into the lock, causing rust and corrosion that can affect the lock’s longevity. Rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation can also cause locks to become stuck, especially if the locking mechanism is exposed to the elements.

To prevent precipitation-related issues, it’s essential to protect your locks from the elements. This means installing a cover over the lock or moving the lock to a more sheltered location. Additionally, if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or snowfall, it may be worth investing in a lock that is specifically designed to withstand these conditions. These locks typically have a protective cover that prevents water from seeping into the lock mechanism.

Weather can have a significant effect on locks, but there are several steps you can take to mitigate these effects. To protect your locks from temperature-related issues, make sure to keep them well-lubricated and invest in locks that are designed to withstand extreme temperatures. To prevent the effects of humidity, avoid exposing your locks to excessive moisture, use a dehumidifier if necessary, and apply a rust inhibitor to your locks. Finally, to prevent precipitation-related issues, protect your locks from the elements by installing a cover or investing in locks that are designed to withstand heavy rainfall or snowfall.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your locks remain functional and secure, no matter what the weather conditions are. Regular maintenance and proper protection can extend the lifespan of your locks and ensure that they provide the necessary security for your property.

How to Program a Key Fob Yourself at Home (8 Easy Steps)

If your key fob suddenly stopped working it can be because it lost its programming data. Here is a step-to-step guide on how to reprogram key fobs without special tools

  • By Magnus Sellén
How To Program A Key Fob

Electronic car keys, also called key fobs, are useful in controlling your car’s doors, trunk, and alarm, and can even remotely start your car from a distance.

Like any other electronic device, these key fobs can malfunction after some time, typically due to signal loss. However, in such a case, you can easily reprogram the remote yourself so you can still use it.

How to program a key fob

Different car models have different ways to program their key fobs. The process mentioned below is the simplest way to reprogram any remote in general. This guide works with most car models on the market, but sometimes you need to find special information for your car model. You can find more specific information about your car’s remote in the owner’s manual. Follow these steps to program a key fob at home:

1. Replace the batteries inside the key fobs

Replace Car Battery Rotated

Before doing anything else, replace the battery in the key fob/s if you haven’t done so for a while. A bad key fob battery can give you a real headache while you are trying to reprogram it. The batteries are often cheap and also easy to replace. Check your owner’s manual if you do not know how to replace them.

2. Get inside the car

Locking Car

Get in the driver’s seat with your car keys and the remote and close all the doors. Closing the doors is very important, as it may disturb the process if you leave one open.

Continue reading here: How to Program a Key Fob Yourself at Home (8 Easy Steps)

Related Article Here: Tips for Programming a Car Key

Locksmith & Key Oak Park
24 Hour Mobile Locksmiths
Monday through Sunday, all day
Dispatch Address: 41 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
Email: service@locksmithoakpark.org
Phone: (708) 433-4802
Merchantcircle: http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/Locksmith.And.Key.Oak.Park.708-433-4802
Manta: http://www.manta.com/c/mx4g93l/locksmith-key-oak-park
Hotfrog: http://www.hotfrog.com/Companies/Locksmith-Key-Oak-Park

Auto Lockout Assistance in Oak Park, IL

Oak Park Auto Lockout

Whether you’re driving somewhere for work or for fun, it doesn’t matter where you’re going; you care about getting there. Therefore, having your plans foiled if you are locked out of your car is obviously inconvenient. Being trapped after sunset is considerably worse. However, there’s no need to worry since the mobile automotive locksmiths here at Locksmith & Key Oak Park will quickly have you back on the road!

Locksmith & Key Oak Park
24 Hour Mobile Locksmiths
Monday through Sunday, all day
Dispatch Address: 41 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
Email: service@locksmithoakpark.org
Phone: (708) 433-4802
Merchantcircle: http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/Locksmith.And.Key.Oak.Park.708-433-4802
Manta: http://www.manta.com/c/mx4g93l/locksmith-key-oak-park
Hotfrog: http://www.hotfrog.com/Companies/Locksmith-Key-Oak-Park

LET US SHOW YOU HOW EASY IT IS TO PICK A LOCK

Every doorknob comes with a built-in lock. Exterior doors typically also come with a deadbolt. Most apartments have a chain on the entry door as well. 

This is what the average person is using to keep intruders out — a handle, a deadbolt, and maybe a chain. And perhaps that keeps people feeling safe enough on a normal day. After all, many intruders are looking for an easy way into a house, so if the door is locked, they’ll move on. Right?

Sure. But not all of them.

A quick online search will show you how simple it is to pick or bump a lock. There are plenty of YouTube videos that will show you exactly how to do it. 

And of course, we’ve seen James Bond and bad guys in movies pick locks with paper clips, bobby pins, credit cards, and nearly anything else they can find lying on the ground. But is it actually easy? James Bond is a trained spy — could anyone learn how to pick a lock?

The short answer is yes. The average lock on a household door is barely more than a deterrent. 

To get more information, we got two of our favorite lock experts together: Jon Douglas Rainey (It Takes a Thief) and third-generation locksmith Anthony Hilt, owner of Florida-based Lockman Security. They were both generous enough to take time out of their busy weeks to talk to us about security, lock-picking, lock bumping (including how disturbingly easy it is), and what you can do to make your home safer.

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How to Pick a Door Lock

One of the more surreal experiences we’ve had was watching Anthony pick (and also bump) a lock right before our eyes. We’re a security company who works tirelessly to make sure our clients feel safe and secure at home, and we know that regular doors and windows just won’t keep out determined intruders. But to watch someone get through a locked door that quickly and that easily was disconcerting.It turns out, we’re not alone in that. Anthony told us that his wife has made him install high-security locks on every house they’ve ever lived in for that very reason — she watched him pick a lock one day and it terrified her.Many years ago, they went over to her grandmother’s house while she was out of town — your typical pick up the mail and water the plants kind of scenario. But when they got there, his wife realized she’d forgotten the key to the house. Of course, Anthony figured he could pick it. And he did — in less than 30 seconds. There are two basic techniques that people can learn to pick a lock. Both are easy enough to find online, but one requires far less skill than the other: lock bumping and lock picking.

Continue reading the original article here: LET US SHOW YOU HOW EASY IT IS TO PICK A LOCK

Locksmith & Key Oak Park
24 Hour Mobile Locksmiths
Monday through Sunday, all day
Dispatch Address: 41 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
Email: service@locksmithoakpark.org
Phone: (708) 433-4802
Merchantcircle: http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/Locksmith.And.Key.Oak.Park.708-433-4802
Manta: http://www.manta.com/c/mx4g93l/locksmith-key-oak-park
Hotfrog: http://www.hotfrog.com/Companies/Locksmith-Key-Oak-Park

Lockout Help in Oak Park

Oak Park Lockout

Our mobile locksmith services include requests you may have such as lockout assistance, lock changes, key replacements, lock repairs, security upgrades, and much more! Requesting help from us is easy, thanks to our 24-hour services. When you need a locksmith in Oak Park or the surrounding area, Locksmith & Key Oak Park is prepared to do what we can to assist you.

Locksmith & Key Oak Park
24 Hour Mobile Locksmiths
Monday through Sunday, all day
Dispatch Address: 41 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
Email: service@locksmithoakpark.org
Phone: (708) 433-4802
Merchantcircle: http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/Locksmith.And.Key.Oak.Park.708-433-4802
Manta: http://www.manta.com/c/mx4g93l/locksmith-key-oak-park
Hotfrog: http://www.hotfrog.com/Companies/Locksmith-Key-Oak-Park

Apartment Security

It is a good idea to boost a property’s security, such as an apartment, when possible. You are going to want to keep unwanted persons out and to make a break-in difficult if not impossible. We are a mobile locksmith company proficient in performing security and lock services for apartments, from internal CCTV camera installation and safe installation to lock replacement and lock rekeys.

Oak Park rekey

There are many different lock and security features and services available for those residing in an apartment.

If you feel uncomfortable in your level of security, or just want something more, keep reading to find out more!

Watch for damaged locks. Do you sometimes have a hard time with your front door lock? Does your key sometimes become stuck in the lock? These can be signs of lock damage or wear and tear, and it is important to have the lock replaced to maintain security for the apartment.

If a break-in occurred at your apartment, then you might need upgraded locks or otherwise lock replacement. You might even want to have window locks installed. In addition, upgrading to a keyless lock with an alarm system connected is a possibility that you might want to run by your landlord. This might make you start to think about having a security camera on the inside of the apartment, perhaps in the doorway, too.

What are other security features for an apartment? One is a safe! Do you have loose cash sitting around? Consider installing a safe. This is needed, too, if there is a gun in the apartment home.

Do you have a young child in your apartment? In this case, there are different security services to think about, for instance, child resistant locks. When a young kid is able to open doors, then you might want to consider child-resistant locks for the front door, pantries, and even for furniture.

These are just some options when it comes to security for an apartment. It is always desirable to boost security for an apartment. It is a given that security is mandatory for any property. Not only is it important to keep unwanted persons from accessing your apartment home, and to make a break-in as difficult as possible, but it is important to protect the items inside. A safe can offer protection for cash, important paperwork and more, as it can even protect these items from fire and water damage.

If there are small children inside the apartment home, there are even more services and features to think about in regard to property security, for instance, child-resistant locks. If your apartment is on a higher floor, or opens to a parking lot, it is even more reason to ensure the front door lock is child proof.

Hopefully, you now have a better idea of what to think about when it comes to security for an apartment. From lock replacement and the installation of safes to interior security camera installation, there are many services out there. Thank you for visiting us and learning more about apartment security!

Broken Vehicle Ignition Cylinder Symptoms

There is a small, but very important part of your car that helps it start, stop, and drive smoothly. This piece is known as an ignition cylinder and is a vehicle part you probably think little of. That is, until you suddenly find yourself with a broken ignition cylinder and experiencing the unsettling symptoms that arise from it. There are three primary indicators to look for that point to a faulty ignition cylinder. Know that the symptoms of a faulty ignition cylinder can mimic other problems that may arise with vehicles, such as a dead battery. However, it is important to consider if your ignition cylinder may be the source of your trouble. Although ignition cylinders may be small, they can halt the operation of your vehicle altogether if they are broken or worn out. 

ignition problem

What is an Ignition Cylinder Exactly? 

On the righthand side of the steering wheel in your vehicle, you will notice the silver disc with a key slot where you insert your key to start your vehicle. This is the top part of your car’s ignition cylinder. The rest of the cylinder sits several inches down into the paneling of your car. When you insert youkey into the slot, you are activating your vehicle’s ignition cylinder. The cylinder then knows to hold the car key firmly in place while you are driving so it does not slip out.  

Symptom 1 – Your Vehicle Will Not Start 

One of the most common symptoms of a faulty ignition cylinder is a vehicle that will not start. While this can be the most jarring or concerning symptom to arise from a faulty ignition cylinder, it is quite common. If your ignition cylinder is broken or damaged in any way, it will not be able to either hold your car key in place or recognize that it is in the slot. This will then result in the car not starting.  

Symptom 2 – Your Vehicle Starts, but Stalls 

The second symptom may involve actually getting the car to start, but then at some point, it stalls out and stops. This can happen while you are initially trying to get going somewhere in your vehicle, or unfortunately, while you are already on the road and driving. This is why it is important to recognize and address any ignition cylinder issues as quickly as they arise. If a small symptom of a faulty cylinder goes unnoticed, it may result in a frightening ordeal of driving and then suddenly having the car stall. Even at the slightest indication of a stall, you should consider that your ignition cylinder may be to blame and have the issues addressed by a professional as soon as possible. 

Symptom 3 – There is No Electrical Response 

The final common symptom you may experience if you have a faulty ignition cylinder is a car that will offer no response whatsoever when you insert and turn the key. Typically, you will see the electrical paneling in your vehicle light up with just one twist of the key. If you attempt this and receive no response, it is likely that your ignition cylinder may be to blame. 

Time to Call a Mobile Locksmith 

If you are experiencing one or more of the symptoms described above, know that there is a sure way to get the help you need fast. To get your vehicle symptoms addressed and the proper repairs made to your ignition cylinder, call a locksmith right away. Locksmiths work with the locks, keys, and their associated components to make repairs, replacements, and upgrades of all kinds. Ignition cylinder repairs and replacements can be performed by a certified locksmith with skill and ease. Thanks to the training that all certified locksmiths are required to undergo, you can trust them with your ignition cylinder repairs.  

You should refrain from trying to replace your ignition cylinder yourself. This is a bad idea and could result in expensive damages to your vehicle by your own hand. It is advised that you work with a professional lock and key expert, no matter what the situation is. Ignition cylinders are embedded deep into the paneling of one’s vehicle and are difficult to reach due to their placement. Locksmiths have the tools and skills necessary to reach your ignition cylinder, replace it with a new one, and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.  

It is important to know that you should contact a locksmith that offers mobile services if you do, in fact, need a locksmith to help you replace your ignition cylinder. Mobile locksmiths are trained and certified lock and key specialists that can perform locksmithing repairs and replacements on-site or even roadside, as might be the case for a broken ignition cylinder. Since you may be stranded just about anywhere in the event of a failing ignition cylinder, you will want to have a professional come to your location, rather than the other way around. This is possible when you contact a mobile locksmith. Rather than frantically calling around for a tow truck and then to a dealership to squeeze you in for a replacement, you can simply have a professional lock and key repair specialist come right to your location. 

Need a Mobile Locksmithing Expert in Your Area? 

Locksmith & Key Oak Park is your go-to locksmith in the Oak Park, Illinois area. Our mobile locksmithing services allow us to travel anywhere in and around Oak Park to help customers with vehicle locksmithing issues of all kinds. We can replace the locks on your vehicle, rekey your vehicle locks, help get you back into a locked vehicle, and of course, repair or replace broken ignition cylinders. Our expert locksmiths in Oak Park also help with residential and business locksmithing requests, so do not hesitate to give us a call. No matter what security needs or concerns you have, if you call Locksmith & Key Oak Park, we promise to connect you with a professional and trusted lock and key expert ASAP! 

Protect Yourself Against Home Burglary

Leaving your home unprotected is risky

A burglary can happen anywhere, whether you live in a house, a condominium or an apartment, in the city, suburbs or a rural area. In fact, burglaries of residential properties accounted for 69.5 percent of all burglary offenses in 2016. Don’t let your home become another statistic.

Even if you’re not there when it happens, a break-in can permanently shatter your feeling of security at home. Fortunately, taking a few simple precautions could dramatically reduce the risks of an invader gaining access to your home and keep your home or apartment in tip top shape.

Common sense care

Believe it or not, it’s often the simplest and most obvious precautions that homeowners tend to forget-and which burglars tend to exploit. Maybe you’ve lived on the same street for decades and doubt it could ever happen to you. Maybe you’re in a rush and skip the usual routine.

Whatever the situation, you should always lock your doors and windows when you go out. Keep close track of any spare keys that exist. Do you know where they are? Do you trust who has them?

Here are a few more common sense tips to minimize the chances of a break-in:

  • Do not have money or jewelry lying out in view from a window. Consider purchasing two fire-resistant safes: One for your valuables and one for important documents and data. To protect your safes from theft, bolt them to the floor.
  • Don’t tell strangers your daily routines, and avoid telling others about the valuables in your home. If you’re at home working outside, leave all other doors that are out of sight locked.
  • Don’t leave tools or ladders in your yard. Burglars may use them to gain access into your home.
  • Be wary about posting your vacation plans and updates on social media websites-even though you trust your friends, you never know who might learn that you’re not home.
  • If you have children, discuss home security with them, such as not talking with strangers about their home, its contents or family schedules.
  • Keep a detailed inventory of your valuables, including the date of purchase, price paid and serial numbers.

Original Article Here: Protect Yourself Against Home Burglary

Home security is one of the most important things that we should consider as homeowners. Why wait to become a victim if you can enhance your home security right now? Locksmith & Key Oak Park is now here to help you anytime. 

10 PRACTICAL HOME SECURITY TIPS THAT YOU CAN USE TODAY

A burglar is out for one thing: to find a home that is easy to enter. If your home appears too difficult or the risk of being caught is too great, they will move on to the next house. It does not take a lot to make your home appear intimidating to burglars – in fact, it is very simple. Unfortunately, too many homeowners ignore these super simple security tips that could significantly reduce the likelihood their home is robbed in the future.

Everybody loves a top 10 list, so here’s our checklist for living safely!

10 Simple Home Security Tips That You Can Use Today

  1. Locking Doors and Windows – Before you leave your home or go to bed, lock the doors and windows of your home. If you have a home automation system, use your computer or smartphone to remotely lock your doors if you forget to do so before leaving.
  2. Use a Home Security System – A home security system is your best defense against burglaries. There are numerous systems available that can be customized to your home and budget. Your local home security company can help you choose one. Simply installing it is not enough – you must also activate it!
  3. Check the Locks – Locks need maintenance just like every other area of your home. Be sure to install deadbolt locks on outside doors, use the right locks on sliding doors and secure dog/cat entrances when you are away.
  4. Occupied, Even When Vacant – Regardless if you are home, your house should appear occupied. That means turning lights on at night and having them turn off with a timer (if you will not be home in time to turn them off).
  5. Reduce Shrubbery – One thing burglars look for is how easily they can hide around the perimeter of your property. Cut back shrubs and trees, especially those near upper levels and windows, so that burglars have nowhere to hide.
  6. Secure Your Garage – Your garage has an entrance into your home, and it’s a common target for burglars. Secure your garage just like you do your home. Park your car in the garage too, if you can, as this will make it harder for burglars to tell when you are home and when you are out.
  7. Lights – Use exterior lights and schedule them to turn on when the sun sets. Use motion sensing lights for dark areas on the lawn too.
  8. Mail – If you go out of town, stop your mail delivery or have a neighbor pick it up for you. Mail that builds up in the box tells burglars right away that no one is home.
  9. Outdoor Wires – Make sure the telephone lines and electrical wires are not easily accessible by burglars. Burglars will usually attempt to disarm security systems by cutting these.
  10. Change the Locks – If you lose your house keys, move into a new home or have someone move out of your home, change the locks on the doors.

Original Article Here: 10 PRACTICAL HOME SECURITY TIPS THAT YOU CAN USE TODAY

Related Article Here: 8 Home Security Tips You Never Thought Of

 

Are looking for a professional help for your home security? Locksmith & Key Oak Park is a great choice! They already served hundreds of satisfied customers! Be one of them now!