temeculals

[temeculals]

What You Need to Know about Commercial Safes

Every local business owner here in Temecula, CA should seriously think about adding a commercial safe of some kind to their business. Unlike scenes in the movies; you don’t have to be a huge commercial bank in order to take advantage of the many advantages of having and using a commercial safe. Local small to medium business firms use them on an everyday basis. These can include book stores, jewelry shops, hotels, gas stations, apartment rentals, sandwich shops, hardware stores and literally thousands more. Each firm uses their safe to secure cash and valuables while still making them easily available when needed. Keep reading to see how adding a strong, smartly placed commercial safe can make a real difference at your local firm. 

Our Temecula Locksmith shop offers commercial safes to area companies in all sizes, materials and price ranges. If you don’t live in the metro area, don’t worry; you can take the advice we give you here and apply it to your locale. 

Commercial safes are for any business! 

That’s right; any business can benefit from the smart use of a commercial safe, including yours! You can flip through any yellow page book or drive down any main street and notice scores of different companies that could use a safe to secure their valuables. Liquor stores, pizza parlors, dog groomers, storage facilities, gas stations, movie theaters, shoe stores, cafes, plumbers, dentists, injury attorneys, office rentals and thousands more. Even single office occupants like insurance agents and artists can benefit from having a safe for their use. 

I have desks and file cabinets; why do I need a safe? 

This is a very good and common question. While it is true that your desks and file cabinets can be locked, it all comes down to the quality (or lack of it) of those locks. File cabinet and desk locks are usually of the cam variety. The ‘cam’ is the tail of the lock that is connected to a rounded bolt. This tail swivels to lock and secure your drawer or cabinet. They provide minimal security as they are easy to pick open or smash open. File cabinets and desk locks of this nature provide basic security for items of low security level or importance. The appearance of security is given as many, if not most people don’t know about the quality and history of cam locks. You can be sure that those most likely to break into your office files and desk drawers DO know about the security drawbacks of cam locks! There is no one-size fits all lock that is impregnable, easily installed, affordable and used for everything. Locks are to be used for designated purposes and those on your desks, office cabinets and file drawers are only meant for minimum to medium security items and documents. 

Okay, so what can I put in my commercial safe? 

What is valuable to you or to your business that you don’t want stolen or viewed by others? That’s what you put inside your safe. There is no hard and fast rule about commercial safe contents; you decide, plain and simple. To start, get the images of stacks of cold, hard cash and gold bars out of your head. If you have them, sure, put them in your safe, but if not, don’t worry about it. Hollywood and the nightly news are responsible for portraying commercial safes as owned and used by rich moguls and captains of industry worth billions. While these do indeed install and use commercial safes, there’s no reason why you and your HVAC firm can’t do the same! 

Jewelry stores can put cash, gems and rare jeweled items inside. A bank can put the obvious extra cash and deposit money inside. A book store could secure rare editions and priceless manuscripts in their commercial safe. Even fast food outlets can keep cash register receipts, extra cash and coin rolls in their safe. They can’t run to the bank for deposits every few hours and fast food is a very cash intensive business. A web design or IT company may keep flash drives, software and customer records in theirs. No matter what business you operate, the will always be a need for cash money, inventory and records to be kept safe and secure. 

Would you like additional safe details? 

If you are a local business owner, you most likely know other local business owners that you network with. Ask them what they are using to protect their cash, records and prized inventory. They may or may not be using a commercial safe but they will appreciate sharing details about their safes if they have one and their concerns if they don’t. Bear in mind that the purchase of a commercial safe for your company is often tax deductible as a business expense. You can also contact a local commercial locksmith shop and learn quite a bit from them. All safes are not alike and you’ll want one that is designed and built with your business type in mind. 

Where to buy your safe 

Safes can be bought just about anywhere. You can buy used ones at estate auctions and even at yard sales. Police seizures often are sold at periodic times along with other items used in crimes like cars, furniture, jewelry and art. Safe stores are a semi good choice but you are paying high middle man mark ups since they usually outsource everything to local commercial locksmiths including delivery, set up, service and maintenance. If you buy online, you can get good, new inventory but if you have questions or service for your safe, there is no one to call or talk to. Local stores often sell safes but remember that part time, minimum wage clerks have little knowledge or interest in helping you. You must still find your own delivery, set up and service. We recommend that you use a local one-stop shop for everything to do with your safe; a commercial locksmith! 

[temeculals]

Steps to Take When Your Key is Stuck in the Ignition

It is simply dreedful when you are attempting to go somewhere in a hurry and you can’t because your key is stuck in the ignition. No matter the make or model car you have, you can still run into a problem with your ignition. None of them are immune to being damaged. The most common problems with your key can affect your ignition. This is why Temecula Locksmith in Temecula, CA is available to assist you with your locksmith service needs. We understand that problems occur when you least expect it. Our trustworthy locksmith technician are capable of helping you get your key from the ignition without further complications.

Ignition problems are a common occurance amongst motorists in Temecula. That is why 24-hour lock and key services are so popular. This is something that can happen to anyone at any time. You can’t predict when this will occur but you can be prepared by knowing who you will rely on in the event that it does happen to you. Despite the fact that you may have never been in this situation before, we are certain that you are able to imagine just how frustrating this type of problem can be. If your key is stuck in your ignition, you will not be able to operate your car. You’ll be stuck until you call on the services of a qualified locksmith to get you on the road again. No matter what time of the day or night, if you’re stuck, you’ll need help in a hurry to handle the situation for you.

Since we are aware of how often this problem occurs, we want to make sure that it doesn’t happen to you. If you find yourself in this situation, we want you to be able to effectivley get out of the situation without to much frustation. Below we offer some practical suggestions on what you can do before even contacting the services of a locksmith. The worst thing you can do is likely the one thing that you will do if you do not know any better. In some cases, you key can be released easily with some troubleshooting. However, on occasion, it might be necessary to call on the help of a locksmith if the key ned to be extracted or if the ignition cylinder needs replacing. Here is how you can safely and effectivley get your key out of your ignition.

Troubleshooting

If you’re key is stuck with the car turned on

Check gears. You cannot remove the key to turn it off it the car is in the parked position

Observe your dashboard to see if it matches the position of your lever. If necessary, shift it back to the correct position, this may extreact the key

Once you’ve checed the above, put the car back into the parked position and see if you have the same problem

If you’re key is stuck with the car turned off

If your cylinders are old it can cause your keys to become stuck

Gently move the steering column back and forth while gently attempting to remove the key from the ignition

If your dashboard lights are out, you might have a dead battery. If you have a dead battery, it will cause your key to get stuck inside the ignition. Without the car being able to turn on, it will not be able to communicate with the locks and therefore it is unable to identify the key chip

You can take some WD-40 and try loosening it so that it will come out. Never jerk the key out of the ignition as this could make the problem worse. You’ll have the key but you may break part of it off in the ignition or worse yet, you might damage the ignition further.

What to Do While Waiting for Help

In between the time that you are waiting for help to arrive and actually receiving the help you need, there are a couple of things that you can do.

Keep the key in the lock position in order to avoid draining the battery

If necessary, use a spare key to lock the car while you are waiting.

You can continue trying the steps above to resolve the problem but it might be best to leave it in the hands of a qualified locksmiths. The one thing you don’t want to do is make it worse than it already is. When it becomes worse than it is this means you’ll likely end up spending more money than is necessary. Sometimes it is just best to avoid the frustration and the lose of money by allowing us to get your key out of the ignition. However, we don’t want to discourage you from doing what you can. We would like to caution you of the results of your doings so.

What a Locksmith Will Do for You

The locksmith will not waste their time resolving the problem. After they have performed a thorough job of inspecting your lock and key, they will know the best techniques for extracting the key. Their job is to so safely and without causing further damage. They will generally inform you of the problem before they resolve it. Sometimes they may need to replace the cylinder and in others cases, all they need to do is spray the ignition. If you are using a bent key, this can cause your key to become stuck inside the ignition. They may need to make you a new key. Do yourself and make sure you know who you can turn to in your time of need. Rely on a locksmith service like Temecula Locksmith who offers you 24-hour servicing. Afterall, when you’re spending your hard earned money, you want to make sure that it is being spent on the right service provider. Don’t just throw your money away. Get what you pay for from a qualified locksmith professional in Temecula.

[temeculals]

THE IMPORTANCE OF PANIC BARS IN COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES

If you own or manage a local Temecula, CA business, pay close attention to these words. Panic bars just might be in your best interest. If you already have them, you’ll appreciate them all the more. If you don’t have panic bars installed, at least look into possibly adding them to your building. With every security appliance, there are pros and cons. But with panic bars, we have yet to see any drawbacks!

So, what are panic bars?

Panic bars are one of those items where everybody sees and recognizes them, yet few know what they really do, and why. Here at Temecula Locksmith we sell, service, repair and install this useful security hardware on a regular basis. Panic bars are so beneficial; they are often required by local building codes and fire departments.

Panic bars also go by other names; crash bars, exit devices and push bars. They are those metal bars that are horizontally installed on back doors of local businesses. They are present here in Temecula, CA and all over the country. We bet that you’ve used panic bars hundreds of times; probably without ever thinking about it. You can find panic bars all over town; in restaurants, movie theaters, convenience stores, dry cleaners, grocery stores, retail shops, fine dining establishments, nursing homes, medical offices, shoe stores, bakeries, gas stations, public libraries, schools, fast food locations, churches, and thousands more! Their prevalence is one thing, but it’s what panic bars do that impresses; they allow people to exit a building or portion of a building without having to turn a door knob. Panic bars allow you to simply push on the bar and open the door with a simple nudge. Once engaged, the panic bar unlocks the door and opens it allowing people to exit faster and easier, all at the same time. Crowd flow is a tricky thing and done wrong, it can have disastrous effects. Panic bars help human traffic move faster, smoother and with less commotion. These helpful bars are always on the INSIDE of a door that opens outward so that those leaving the building are usually not met by anyone coming into the area. If you’ll notice, panic bar doors almost never have door knob on the other side.

Are panic bars a requirement?

They might be. Each locality is different. In some places panic bars are an option while in others, they are a must-have according to the fire codes and building regulations. It’s best to check with your fire department, builder or architect as each locale is unique and subject to different safety and building requirements. On a normal basis, panic bars offer convenience and ease of use. They not only unlatch the door when you push against them, they unlock and open it too. Now, imagine if a fire, shooter or other disaster happened inside a building. A fast and orderly exit will be needed and panic bars help facilitate that almost immediately. It’s no wonder that their use is so accepted and widespread. Bottlenecking traffic and stampedes are responsible for deaths and injury when panicked crowds are forced to move quickly. When panic bars are installed and used, the incidents of disastrous crowd movement are greatly reduced.

Can you afford panic bars?

Like many business items and upgrades, panic bars can sometimes be expensed as a cost of doing business or as an upgrade to the property you own or manage. There are many tax professionals in Temecula, CA that can give you additional details and further tips on how to do this. At any rate, panic bars are not expensive and can certainly make a huge difference in both security and convenience at your company. You don’t need large crowds going through your establishment either. Panic bars can be found in less trafficked firms like bookstores, luxury hotels, boutiques and cafes for example. Talk to your property manager, builder, or construction manager, and see what is involved in adding commercial panic bars to your Temecula business.

You can buy panic bars online, from your local commercial locksmith, or from home improvement and builder outlet stores. Like other commercial hardware, be sure to shop around for best pricing. Our locksmith shop offers free price quotes and free consultations as do many other local lock and key establishments. If buying and installing multiple devices, you might qualify for a volume discount. When factoring in the cost of adding panic bars to your Temecula, CA business, don’t forget to consider warranty coverage, installation charges and maintenance contracts or fees.

Are panic bars perfect?

Are panic bars the perfect hardware for your business? Is anything perfect? Like any mechanical device, panic bars can malfunction. They can sometimes lock-up. If this occurs, you can be delayed opening or closing your business for the day. For the do-it-yourselfers, there are ways around this. Online videos by the dozens show how to unlock your panic bars. There are many brands and manufacturers of these exit devices but they are mostly similar in construction and design. Be sure to keep the owner’s manual handy if you made the purchase. If you don’t have one, they are almost always online if you do a search using the manufacturer’s name and the model number with the words “panic bar owner’s manual” after them.

Your best source for quality panic bars and accessories

There are many sources for purchasing panic bars and/or educating yourself on their use and maintenance. You can visit architects, contractors and builders and speak to them about their recommendations for purchase and installation. Online versions of Home Depot, Lowe’s and Google shop offer many options. Amazon and E-Bay are also good sources for both purchasing and research. Don’t forget to call the manufacturer’s toll free number with any questions you may have – most have customer service departments that can answer any buying or installation questions that you may have.

[temeculals]

WHY SHOULD YOU HAVE A KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM?

If you’re thinking about purchasing a keyless entry system, take some time to explore the many benefits it will afford you and your property:

It’s superior to a traditional key. You never have to fumble around in your purse or pockets for your keys any longer. High-tech cutting-edge keyless entry systems are relatively easy to use. You’ll have peace of mind, with greater security than standard keys give you.

You’ll spend less. The normal circumstances regarding locks and keys ~ such as moving to a new location; taking in a new tenant or roommate; disallowing access from a fired employee; keeping out an ex-spouse; and so on ~ the truth is, a keyless entry system is usually less expensive overall than the many times you’ll do rekeying, lock change-outs, and key copying.

Do you lose your keys a lot? Then keyless entry is the perfect solution. You can walk your dog, visit a neighbor, take a stroll, or go for a run, and you won’t ever have to take along your clanging keys. Absentmindedness will never catch you again.

It’s a lot easier for children to use. If your kids frequently arrive home from school before you’re there, and they often forget their keys, if you have a keyless remote entry system you won’t be worried about them being locked out. They’ll only have to remember the code. Or, the type of system requires only a fingerprint.

You’ll have excellent security. We all want our private information to stay confidential, both at home and in the workplace. These days, there’s rising concern over identity theft, fraud, and so forth. As a result, keyless entry systems are becoming more sophisticated, including such innovations in technology as biometrics ~ a handprint, fingerprint, or retina scan.

If you’d like biometrics to be part of your keyless entry system, you’ll be completely sure that only the people you want to give clearance to will be given access to your property. A biometric reader authenticates identity by scanning an individual’s distinguishing features. More futuristic identification methods will soon become commonplace ~ including facial and voice recognition, ear scans, even DNA sampling and heartbeat identification!

It’s waterproof and rustproof. Of course, keyless smart locks are digital, using computer chips to function. Accordingly these locks are waterproof, so they’ll never be suffused with water.

Just punch in the code. With a keyless entry system, you’ll have a keypad rather than a regular lock mechanism. Push the buttons for your chosen sequence of numbers, and the door will unlock. Some keyless systems allow you to use a key to lock the door upon leaving, but you can use the keypad when you return. Some will permit you to monitor your property 24/7 remotely using your smart phone.

To get inside your place, because all you have to do is to know what your code is, you won’t ever have to cut a spare key for anybody else. Simply tell people what your code is, and teach them how to use the keypad. Be sure to tell only friends and family members whom you trust! Keep in mind that anyone you tell could theoretically share the information with somebody else, or, heaven forbid, even turn against you and steal from you in the future. Consequently, it’s vital that you change your code periodically ~ once each month is ideal.

Keyless locks are typically remote-controlled, which is handy if you can’t recall your password; open the lock easily by pointing and clicking the remote device.

An important point to remember: If you choose an electronic keyless entry system, you must always keep your battery charged. If the battery charge gets low, a message or indicator light will turn on as a reminder. If you’ll be gone for an extended period, make sure that your battery will last until you get back. Obviously, battery backup is indispensable so that you will know that your doors will stay locked even if there’s a power outage.

If you have a commercial building, depending upon your line of business and circumstances, you ought to change the code as often as possible ~ once per week, once per day, or even several times per day. In some commercial facilities, there are numerous keyless entry points, which will control access not only from persons leaving and entering, but also from entering top-security areas of the property. For exceptionally advanced levels of security clearance, a password along with a keycard ~ or biometrics ~ may also be necessary.

A keyless entry system also works well for your vehicle. Many automobiles nowadays offer you the choice of opening the doors and trunk with an electronic keyless remote entry system. With some, you can even remotely fire up the engine. Often referred to as a remote keyless system (RKS), or a remote central locking system (RCLS), keyless vehicular entry and operation began in the 1990s, featuring a keypad on the driver’s door, which you can open only with the proper code (also called the passkey). The numbered passkey evolved on some cars into a more discreet system, which replaced the keypad and numeric code with a dedicated key, with more buttons that deactivate or activate the ignition and the locking mechanism.

With any automotive electronic keyless lock system, you’ll enjoy extraordinary convenience. It’s so easy to open your car doors with only the push of a button. You’ll also have an outstanding level of safety because it can’t be picked or hotwired. If the key system is jeopardized, a loud alert will inform the owner and everybody close by. Many vehicles are also designed to lock down, stopping the likelihood of a forced entry. Some automotive keyless entry systems will connect your keys to your smart device, so you won’t risk misplacing them. A specialized keyless entry system can truly transform the way you safeguard and operate your car, truck, van, or delivery vehicle.

When it comes to a keyless entry system, there are many preferences to consider. If you’re located anywhere in Temecula, California, and you want to find out more about its benefits for your place of residence, commercial property, or car, make an appointment with a professional, such as one of the mobile locksmith technicians on staff at Temecula Locksmith, where free consultations are available.

[temeculals]

Temecula Locksmith: How To Hire a Good Locksmith

Locksmiths offer a plethora of priceless services for owners of properties who are looking for top-notch protection. A lock and security provider who is licensed and insured is a valuable expert to turn to for assistance in choosing from the various options on the market. It can be difficult to otherwise know if your property could benefit more from rekeying locks or from having brand new locks set up. It can be difficult to know if you should use a safe or just a cabinet lock. They are also good to turn to for information about different brand names. Obviously if you call the manufacturer directly, you are going to get biased information about their products. But if you talk with an expert who works with said products every single day, you are going to get information from a valid source. The team at Temecula Locksmith has made it a priority to offer information to people all over the place in regards to how to pick a good locksmith for the job. So whether you’re in Temecula, CA or living and working elsewhere in the United States, you are sure to find the provided details to be useful, at least to some degree. It is important that you pick someone you can count on for the job, whether you are looking for commercial, auto or residential services.

Here are some steps to take to hire the right lock and security provider:

Hire a local locksmith when you can 

This is one sure way to have the ability to pay the best deal. Typically, local companies will offer more competitive rates than major corporations. They want to gain your business, and they want to keep you as a long term customer. Local businesses usually strive to do a great job, and this ambition is apparent.

Ask around for recommendations

Talking to neighbors or even friends who have used a specific locksmith in the past can prove to be extremely helpful. If a friend hired a person who claimed to be an expert but had no licensing or insurance information to show for it, and ended up doing a bad job, then you will know right off the bat to avoid hiring this individual. On the other hand, if you hear excellent feedback regarding someone else, you will know that they are a safe bet. Check websites and apps such as Yelp, Facebook and Angie’s List to see reviews of places.

Some things to ask…

Have questions ready when you do get on the phone with a locksmith in your area. Here are some of the basic things to ask about:

Ask them how many years they have been in business. A company that has been around for a long time is likely doing something right.

Ask them about their insurance and any certification.

Request a price estimate for the service you need, and expect this information to be provided at no charge.

See if they offer 24 hour a day availability. You never know when you might need someone to get you back into your home because you are locked out in the middle of the night.

Things to watch out for

You should be concerned if you agree to a rate from a lock and security provider, and then they arrive to your property only to try to charge you more. Sure, the scope of the work might change in some circumstances, but if you requested a service like lock replacement, and were quoted a different rate over the phone than you received in person, this is something to watch out for. For select services, rates should be fairly cut and dry.

Always be prepared!

It is a good idea once you have found a lock and security provider that you like to keep their information on you. As mentioned, you could end up needing 24/7 locksmith assistance at some point in time. This could be the result of a lockout, or it could be because you had a break in and you need your locks changed immediately. Being prepared will mean that you don’t have to waste time in an emergency looking around for the phone number of a place to call. If you have already done your research and know of a locksmith with good reviews, it will be one less thing to worry about.

Keep in mind that a locksmith should offer many different options. 

When you decide to trust a locksmith with your auto, residential and commercial security needs, you are opting to trust someone who should have a great deal of experience with all sorts of options, to include: break in repairs, access control, intercom systems, keyless entry, lock replacement, rekeying locks, key duplication, transponder key programming, lock boxes, safe installation, smart keys, the installation of new locks and so much more. There is a long list of services that just about any lock and security provider will be able to offer. If you call the team at Temecula Locksmith in Temecula, California you can get a better idea of the many ways that they can help you during a free consultation. Not in this area? No problem. Just follow the guidelines provided to discover an excellent, reputable and trustworthy lock and security provider in your location. Just bear in mind that using your best judgement and listening to feedback from people you trust can make all of the difference. The person that you hire will end up having access to your property, and you will ultimately be placing the security of your property and your valuables in their hands. Don’t just trust a random stranger off of a site like Craigslist. Look for established businesses and highly rated individuals. Best of luck in your search for the ideal lock and security provider. And congratulations on taking the next step towards better security. Looking around for an expert is a great move to make!

[temeculals]

The Forgotten Door

So you might be wondering just what door could we possibly be talking about? Well, if you haven’t already figured it out, we’re talking about the sliding glass door that might lead to your backyard or patio. Many people forget to lock this door when they are leaving their home. This is the one door that you do not want to forget to secure. It is super easy for an intruder to break into your home through your sliding glass door. The reason this door is susceptible to intrusions is because it is out of the sight of other people. You might think its funny that we would even mention to remember to lock your sliding glass door but you might be even more surprised to find out just how many people call us at Temecula Locksmith in Temecula, CA because they forgot to do this. It is a primary target for many burglars because they are aware of just how many people forget to lock them. If you do not wish to experience an invasion, every door and window should be secured prior to your leaving home. Sliding doors are very easy to break into. Knowing this is all the more reason to make sure that this door in particular is always locked. If you have a sliding glass door, perhaps you should make a mental note to make sure you always double check to make sure your glass door is locked behind you.

Here are more reasons why your sliding glass door is susceptible to intrusions:

Easy Access– These types of doors only use one lock to keep them closed. It is for this reason that so many burglars make this their primary means of breaking into your home. Anyone can use a simple screwdriver to gain access back into your home. With only one lock, it doesn’t take much effort to break into your home. The material used to construct a sliding door isn’t usually the most durable and therefore they can also be easily kicked in. If you consult with a professional locksmith, we will be able to tell you what might be a better option for you.

Exposing Your Belongings– One reason that a lot of homeowners prefer a glass sliding door is because they like the natural light that comes in through them. Although this is a nice feature, it does leave you and your loved one susceptible to experiencing an intrusion. When a burglar can see what he stands to gain from breaking into your home, they are usually willing to take a chance if they see things of value to them. So, while you may find this feature most appealing, you should actually consider having the window tinted or a window covering placed over the door. This way, they never have to know what you have inside. If they notice that they can’t see inside, they may just go elsewhere and not even risk being caught. Don’t make it easy for a burglar to get what they want, put something over the windows of your sliding glass door as soon as possible.

They Don’t Make Noise– The fact that the homeowners are not capable of actually hearing someone coming through a sliding door is very attractive to a would-be burglar. Since they slide, there is no chance of the door slamming behind them or closing even creaking when they close it behind them. They can get in and out without ever being detected. It only makes sense that since they can go undetected through your sliding glass door that they would use this door and not any other.

Ways to Secure Your Sliding Door

If you’re now worried about the lack of security that your sliding glass door now affords you, perhaps you should know just what you can do in order to better secure your existing sliding door.

Reinforced locks

One of the first things that our locksmiths suggest is that you add reinforced locks to the door. The existing hook and latch will not prevent an intruder from coming inside it they want to. It is easy to get through a sliding door and this is why it is most important to add an additional lock to your existing lock. We recommend an auxiliary lock that you will be able to open from inside your home. Our customers have found this to be an efficient way to secure their sliding glass door.

Have an Alarm Installed

If you have an existing alarm, you can request that your sliding door is also added to the alarm system. This gives you added security because whenever someone tries to break-in, the alarm will immediately detect it and alert the proper authorities. You would think that every door in the home is on the security system, however, not every homeowner thinks this is necessary. Perhaps now that they have read about how easy it is to compromise a sliding door, they will take the necessary steps to better secure it.

Investing in Commercial Grade Locks

You are allowed to use commercial locks wherever you like. We highly recommend that you use them on your sliding glass door. This offers you maximum security for your door. A commercial grade lock is a lot more durable than our standard latch key lock. We can advise you of the most appropriate locks to use on your sliding door. So feel free to contact one of our local locksmiths to find out which commercial locks we recommend you use for your door.

So instead of running out, buying a brand new door, there are some things you can do right now to secure your existing door. The key to your being able to prevent an intrusion via your sliding glass door is to be proactive. Do something to better secure the door before something happens that could have been avoided. Take the right steps today to better secure your home and protect your loved ones from potential harm.

[temeculals]

ACCESS CONTROL: HOW TO EFFECTIVELY LIMIT ACCESS TO YOUR PROPERTY

What’s Access Control?

Whether your property is commercial, residential, or automotive, the principals for keeping your property secure are the same. If you want to take security measures that will be effective, then you should set up a dependable access control system. Nowadays, everything ~ from opening your car door and firing it up, to going into a place of business, to logging in to your computer, to entering your hotel room ~ is protected in some fashion by access control. This means that only you, plus the people you authorize, will be able to gain access to your property.

There are 3 aspects to establishing access control:

Identification. First, an access control system is necessary to protect your property from unauthorized access, and thus you’ll control the movement of the individuals who enter. Accordingly, the system you choose must enable you to prove, without a doubt, the identity of any person who wants to enter your property, or to go inside any sensitive area.

Authentication. After your system confirms an individual’s identity, then that person will be allowed access to the building or to a restricted area you’ve designated. There are numerous ways to carry out authentication ~ from a basic identification smart card, passwords and passcodes, additional smart devices, and encryption keys, to biometrics, such as a fingerprint, handprint, or eye scan.

Authorization. Based upon the list of principles you establish for your property’s access control system, with effective identification and authentication, a person will finally be granted authorization for access.

  The Many Benefits of Access Control

Maintain building safety. Customize your access control system to your specific location, as well as to the nature of your business. For instance, you can prevent an industrial accident from arising by controlling the number of persons you allow to enter a hazardous area. By the same token, you can limit the number of people (in a nightclub, theatre, or church, for example) so that you’ll know you’re properly adhering to the fire code.

Discourage criminal activity. If potential thieves, vandals, and arsonists observe the level of your access control system, they’re bound to steer clear. The correct level of access control ~ based upon your particular industry, your location, your activities, and any other requirements ~ will make anyone with criminal intentions think twice and stay away.

If you’re located anywhere in Temecula, California, and considering establishing an access control system for your place of residence or your commercial property, it’s a good idea to start out by scheduling an appointment for a free consultation with a reputable company that’s open around the clock, such as Temecula Locksmith. You’ll want to be sure the security company you choose is available to provide assistance 24/7, in case you ever need help. Hire a trustworthy expert who will help you determine your specific security needs and desires, and then guide you to the perfect way to implement each aspect of your requirements, staying within your budget. Once you install your system, and it’s tested and up and running, you’ll also require the expertise of a security professional who will demonstrate to you how to fully utilize your access control system.

Tracking information. With access control, you can record activities digitally and electronically for future reference. Certain points of information can be used to conduct investigations and formulate reports. You’ll prevent potential thieves, unwelcome visitors, and unauthorized personnel from entering your property or its restricted areas. You may also be able to help any people who encounter trouble, since you can quickly identify them, and see their exact whereabouts. The same goes for exposing and locating an intruder.

  Various Types of Access Control Systems

Surveillance cameras. A video surveillance system works well in a high-security area. The nature of your property will determine the level of image resolution you require. Ask yourself about additional aspects of your system’s set-up. Do you want to record and keep 24/7 video footage of all activities? Do you want software allowing sophisticated capture capabilities? These features include time-and-date stamp code, vehicle number plate recognition, facial recognition, or any number of additional high-security monitoring and access control functions.

Intruder detection. Alarms and motion detectors will alert you if an intrusion is detected in a certain area or point of entry. They can be placed inside or outside, depending on where you want the most protection.

Gate entry. By installing a security gate, you’ll be able to monitor the movement of anyone who enters and leaves. You’ll allow each person to have the desired level of security clearance based upon a list of criteria for entry, which you’ll create.

Biometric measurements. Keys, identification cards, passwords, user names, smart devices, etc. can be forged or stolen by professional criminals. Biometrics, however, cannot be counterfeited. A biometric reader scans each person’s unique features. Modern methods of biometric verification are fingerprints, handprints, or a retina scan. Additional biometric measurements, which could soon become more common, are ear scans, voice print recognition, and even heartbeat identification and DNA sampling. Consequently, if you want extraordinary security at your property, biometric readers will unquestionably take access control to an entirely new level, truly restricting imposters. With biometrics, you’ll be genuinely assured that only individuals with your established level of acceptable clearance will gain access to any sensitive area.

  Before You Set Up Your Access Control System

When you correctly establish your access control system, you’ll keep your building completely secure and safe. You’ll effectively control the movement of everyone going in and out. To decide how best to arrange your access control system, be sure to set all the criteria for individuals you choose, as well as for categories of people ~ visitors, security guards, delivery people, VIPs, employees, and so forth ~ who will be allowed assorted levels of access.

List your chosen restrictions for each kind of access: Some persons will have permission to go almost anywhere (full access); some will have limited public access (partial access); and some will have permission to enter highly sensitive areas (high-security clearance).

[temeculals]

Temecula Locksmith: The Importance of Having a Gun Safe

Gun owners all over the place are currently dealing with politicians trying to determine whether or not they should be allowed to own guns. This is something that many people are up in arms about, no pun intended. But one thing that those who own weapons should think about is the security of their weapons. Temecula Locksmith is a trusted locksmith that serves the area of Temecula, CA. The people in that area completely trust them and rely on them to provide services that will work. But the team that works here understands that security features should benefit everyone, all over the place. This team has taken the time to explain the importance of owning a gun safe for anyone who has a gun, because they understand that people could get injured not just where there are located, but anywhere. Heed this advice if you happen to own a weapon that has the potential to cause injury to someone.

First of all, what is a gun safe?

This is a safe that is made to store at least one firearm and ammunition. It is a secured storage container, if you will. In some states, access prevention is a law. These safes prevent unauthorized access to weapons, for instance, if someone breaks into your home they won’t be able to get into the safe without the key or code, and if a child is attempting to see your weapon, they won’t be able to get to it. There are many security features that can be included with a gun safe, for instance, digital locks, fingerprint identification, water protection, fire protection and/or a combination lock. Electronic locks and mechanical locks tend to be options with this kind of safe. Some safes were even made to be basically hidden from plain sight. So rather than having a safe sitting out in the open, it might be attached to a wall or floor. There are numerous options available and one way to learn more is to get on the phone with a locksmith that is local to wherever it is that you happen to live.

Why do I need a gun safe? 

It is important that anyone who owns a weapon abides by state law. Check to see if your state requires you to abide by any access prevention regulations. Actually, in some countries such as Australia, not only are safes a requirement for guns, but there are also regulations regarding the different materials available. For instance, guns must be locked in steel safes or cabinets. Wooden safes are allowed in some cases. Clearly, many people understand the importance of keeping a gun locked in a safe container or some sort.

The dangers of guns and children

If you have children who live in your home or that ever stay with you, then you must know that they can be extremely curious. They might not mean to get into trouble, but kids can get into anything. They might open up a cabinet in the kitchen and grab a hold of a cleaning solution and spray it all over the place. There have been stories of kids grabbing dish detergent packets and becoming extremely ill because of it. In comparison to other situations, these things seem relatively minor. What if a kid grabbed a hold of your gun? Even if it was locked, they could mess around with it until they figure out how to unlock it. This isn’t something anyone wants to think about or imagine, but it is important if you own a weapon of some sort, whether it is a gun or a knife or anything else.

A break in

Think about another possible scenario. What if someone broke into your home in the middle of the night? Let’s say you have a gun close by and you want to grab it, but as you are in the process of waking up from a deep sleep, the person who broke into your home is able to grab your gun before you can. Some people might wonder, “Well, if I have a gun in a safe, what if I can’t get to it fast enough?” This is something that many people will think about, but it is up to you to find a place that is convenient for you to access but also out of reach of someone else. If your gun safe opens up by fingerprint identification, then you should be able to very quickly open it to grab your weapon. Hopefully, this isn’t something that you will ever have to deal with, but it is important that you think about it nonetheless and stay prepared for all potential situations.

Flood or fire

Another scenario to think about is a flood or fire. If you have a weapon, it could get damaged. This holds true for any other items you have in your home. Anything of importance or danger should be stored in a fire proof or water resistant safe. This way, you can trust that even if other parts of your property become damaged, your expensive gun will stay protected while it is locked away.

If you haven’t talked with a locksmith about a gun safe, be sure to get in touch with one. Look up your options online if you’d rather do your own research, which is something you should do beforehand anyway just to have an idea of the many different options available. Safes come in all different sizes and finishes, and they are available at a wide range of price points.

Have a look at what is out there and make sure to protect your weapon while also protecting yourself and your loved ones. You don’t want just anyone to get their hands on your gun. With a safe to lock it away, now, you won’t have to worry about this happening. Exhibit caution with your weapon and make sure to be a reliable, trusted gun owner.

[temeculals]

Finding the Right Garage Door Lock

It isn’t often that you will see a lock on a garage but if you have a detached garage that is used for storing things, such as boats, camping equipment, power tools, etc., it may be necessary to protect it with a lock. These are all very valuable things and they should be protected. There are tons of locks that can be used to protect your valuables. Burglars may think that since your garage is behind your house, away from anyone who can see it, they stand a better chance of getting into your garage without anyone seeing them. Knowing that there is a lock on your garage door should give you the peace-of-mind in knowing that your valuables are protected against any type of intrusion.

  You should only rely on the services of a trustworthy and dependable Temecula, California locksmith, such as Temecula Locksmith. Even though there may already be a lock on your garage door, it usually isn’t durable enough to protect you from a break-in. When you have a good, sturdy and durable lock added to your existing lock, you stand a better chance of preventing anyone from breaking into your garage. Another layer of protection can’t hurt. Before finding out what types of locks would be best for your garage door, why not take notice of the things you should consider before buying a lock for your garage door.

  Garage Door Locks Should Have the Following:

  Functionality

Consider how functional you will need your new lock to be. Will you need to unlock it from inside or will it be possible to lock it from outside? Will you have a key lock or combination lock installed on the door? Both offer a different type of functionality in order to open and lock. Only you can determine the level of functionality you desire to have.

  Durability

If a lock isn’t durable then it is useless. Make sure whichever type of lock you put on your garage door that it is durable. The more durable the lock, the harder it will be to break it.

  Cost

It is true that there is some locks that cost more or less than others. You will have to decide how much you can afford to invest in to secure the things stored in your garage. Shop around because it may take a while before you find a quality lock at a price that you are willing to pay.

  Installation

Just like you would be wise to shop around for the most durable garage door lock possible. It is also important that you find a reliable locksmith in Temecula, California to properly install your garage door lock. If it isn’t properly installed, it will not be able to keep out intruders.

  Possible Garage Door Lock Options

  Keyless Digital Locks 

Many people appreciate the convenience that a keyless digital lock affords them. Simply key in the correct code and viola! You’re able to program your keypad yourself in order to remember the code. Programming your own code also enables you to change the code whenever you like. It is a generally safe lock option since it is impossible to pick this sort of lock. You also receive a generous lifetime warranty against damages.

  Deadbolt Locks

These types of locks offer the most resistance to intruders. They are reinforced, durable locks. A deadbolt lock is generally installed on a door with an existing lock. This enables you to reinforce the level of security. You can only access this lock when it is in the open position. They are offered in single and double cylinder types. The single cylinder is the most widely used because the double cylinder requires that a key be used for both sides of the door. There is also a spring bolt deadbolt lock, which uses a spring that can be broken into if too much pressure is placed on the spring. It is more difficult to break-into your with a deadbolt lock, most intruders will simply pass yours by for one without a lock.

  Electronic Locks

Electronic locks are designed using advanced technology. It uses electronic fingerprint recognition to unlock and lock the door. You never need to wipe out a key, ever again, in order to open your garage door. An electronic lock will enable you to problem several fingerprints at one time. This enables several people in your home to utilize the lock for entry into your garage. It is best if you allow a certified locksmith to install the electronic lock instead of attempting to do it on your own. An electronic lock can be more costly than the others but it is well worth the extra expense. You certainly get your money’s worth when you buy an electronic lock for your garage door. It is worth the investment.

  Side Door Bolt

This is one of the most popular options for garage doors. It is installed on the inside of your door and is difficult for a burglar to compromise the lock. There is a slot and bolt that are attached to the track of your garage door. The door will only lock once the bolt is correctly placed inside the slot. This lock makes is almost impossible for someone from the outside to open the door. Even though it doesn’t sound like there is much to this lock, it is a very effective lock option for your garage door.

    T-Handle Lock  

You will generally see these types of locks on metal garage doors. This type of lock doesn’t use a standard key. The mechanism to open it is cylinder shaped. It is a great option since this sort of key isn’t easy to duplicate.

  Since this is an important decision that involves your being able to protect your valuables, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Do a little homework prior to purchasing your new garage door lock. Only purchase a lock that affords you the peace-of-mind you deserve in knowing that your things are safe.

[temeculals]

Benefits of a Home Safe

You see it in the movies all the time; home safes hidden behind walls, under staircases and inside of secret rooms. You might be thinking that having a safe at home is for the rich, or for some underground drug kingpin. Sure, those people may have one at their home but ordinary folks like you and me can too! Here in Temecula, CA we live on an affluent part of the state, but the truth is that ordinary people can affordably and very easily contain their valuables inside a home safe, as well. Inside your safe can be anything of value that you like, including jewelry, collectibles, cash, documents, guns, treasured heirlooms and lots more. A safe not only protects your property from burglars, it can also shield your “stuff” from fire, flood, wind, dust and from the curious. Let’s take a closer look at just what can be stored in your home safe and why.

Money

Everyone’s first choice is cash! We all need money to live on and nowadays most of it tends to be electronic. We swipe a plastic card or enter a series of numbers in an online form and “boom” we have just made a purchase or a payment. Once in a while though, having real spendable cash comes in handy. This can be used for tips, food delivery, emergency medical care, baby sitters, handymen, dog walkers, emergency car repairs, tax bills, charity donations, job loss survival and even for funeral arrangements. Getting to the ATM is not always possible; in fact they are down many of the times. Emergency cash can be invaluable during bad weather, health crisis and other times when getting out to a bank is just not feasible.

Documents

While not exactly money, important documents are also good to store in your home safe. Some examples of these could be birth certificates, duplicate licenses, passports, appraisals, tax returns, receipts, titles, diplomas, mortgage notes, bonds, stock certificates, court papers, insurance papers, warranties and even death certificates. Many of our Temecula Locksmith customers even save their password codes, key codes and flash drives in their home safe for better protection and easy access.

Guns

While this may be controversial for many, having a gun in the house is vital to home security according to many Temecula, CA residents. Our family owned shop offers gun cabinets, gun safes and other places to keep firearms but many locals prefer to keep a handgun or other weapon locked in the house safe. By doing this, it keeps it somewhat handy and always out of reach of small children that might live in the home or be visiting. Keeping loaded weapons lying around at home is not a good idea. In fact, every year accidental shootings and domestic disturbances lead to deaths and injuries simply because of the easy access to loaded weapons in the home.

Family heirlooms and jewelry

What better place to keep jewelry, watches and investment grade diamonds than the home safe? Safes give protection from theft, weather, visitor pilfering, and even from dust. Expensive watches, necklaces, bracelets and other items seen at galas and concerts are often well made fakes while the real items are still at home, in the family safe! People who collect or sell estate jewelry, loose gems and investment-grade diamonds also need a place to keep them secure until they can be appraised, sold or displayed.

Treasured photographs, family heirlooms and mementos are often kept in the home safe. They can always be brought out for viewing or for distribution upon death but in the meantime; they are secure in their home vault. In fact, many insurance companies will require that important items be kept secure in a safe of some kind before a policy will be issued. Other important items that are perfect for keeping in the safe include photographs, old letters, antique items, keepsakes, artwork and even smaller valuable items from travel and favorite trips.

Safes and Crime!

It’s a myth that adding a home safe will invite burglary. After all, if you have items worthy of keeping in a safe, they MUST be important, right? Actually, what is vital to some is not so important to others. A bundle of love letters from your grandparents might mean the world to you but get nothing from an art dealer. Safes can be hidden from plain view using stealthy methods that are hardly noticeable, even by people living in the home. Temecula Locksmith specializes in home lock and key service including safe sales, placement and service. We offer free consultations that can alert you to the best locations in the home to put your safe according to your security needs and wants. We also offer safe selection help so that you get and use the appropriate size and type of safe for your valuables.

Wall Safes

Wall safes are so commonly seen in the movies and television that we naturally think of them first. Wall safes can be installed under stairs, behind book cases, in back of wall art, behind a tapestry and even inside a panic room!

Free Standing Safe

This is another option for you to consider. While they are not hidden from view, free standing safes are usually so big and heavy that to steal them or even to access them is a major undertaking and not for amateurs. You often see free standing safes in luxury hotels or in some art galleries and museums. Many homeowners have them in less traveled parts of the house like home office closets and basements.

Floor Safes

Floor safes are less common and have to be built in to the home but are so effective at keeping your items secure and hidden from plain view. If you’ve watched the hit show “Revenge” a floor safe is shown in almost every episode.

Purchase Options

You can purchase your home safe almost anywhere. Safe dealers and gun shops offer them as do home improvement stores and online shopping choices like Amazon and E-bay. Of course, your local residential locksmith shops like Temecula Locksmith are always good options since you are eliminating the middle man and can get installation, service and warranty protection at the same time.

[temeculals]

HOW TO SOLVE IGNITION CYLINDER PROBLEMS

Can’t get your car started? There are a lot of reasons this can happen. One probability is that your vehicle has a failing ignition switch. If so, it’s time to look into it further. A worn-out ignition can prove to be a hazard, so don’t ignore the issue. In some instances, you can discover the nature of your problem yourself.

Reasons you may be experiencing ignition problems

One common reason ignitions fail is that they’re defective from the beginning. If so, check with your vehicle’s manufacturer. If you’re still under warranty, the dealership should replace your ignition cylinder for you. If you’re no longer under warranty, it’s time to hire a reputable automotive locksmith specialist.

There could be too much wear and tear. If so, the car key will become increasingly ineffective, and finally stop functioning. In this case, the key needs to be remade, applying the factory key cutting codes, to ensure the key is correctly cut and completely functional.

Keep an eye on your dashboard lights. Natural wear and tear on your automobile can lead to ignition switch failure, particularly in older cars. If your ignition switch is failing, you might not hear clicks from the main relay, which fires it up. If you’re stalling out, check your dashboard lights. Turn the key to position 2, and if the oil light, charge light, brake light, and other warning lights do not come on, then something’s wrong. You can also do this test to check the ignition switch’s integrity: When you get the car key to the “start” position, as soon as it begins to start, let go of the key, and let it snap back to the “on” position. If your warning lights turn off when the switch snaps back, then the switch is definitely bad.

Did you break the car key off, or is there some other object lodged in the lock mechanism? Don’t try to fix this yourself! Contact a trustworthy automotive locksmith expert. Otherwise, you might cause irreparable damage to the ignition. Usually a broken key or any foreign object can easily be removed by a professional automotive locksmith, without having to replace the whole ignition switch.

Did you insert the wrong key into the ignition switch? If it went all the way in, don’t attempt to pull it out! You could cause irreparable damage to the ignition. It’s time to call a locksmith!

Your key ignition’s set of wafers, which index with corresponding cuts on the car key, can become worn out. The switch will fail if it gets mucked up with grime and dirt. Individual wafer replacement, or plain old cleaning, will do the trick. You likely won’t have to pay for a total ignition replacement.

The battery could be drained. When you start your vehicle, the ignition coil takes its power from the battery, sending it to the sparkplugs. This ignites the fuel so your car will run. If you ever have to turn the engine over a bunch of times to get it going, you could drain your battery until there’s no power left.

Is the switch overheating? You could have a short in your system. If your ignition switch is overly hot when it’s touched, then the issue is probably in the electrical system. Since the ignition switch is connected to high-resistance wires, any of the terminals where the wires are connected can overheat, which may melt the insulating base. If it does get fried, then your vehicle will jerk violently, and won’t start.

Your transponder key may not be functioning properly. Normally, this means that its computer chip has lost its programming. You can get your existing key reprogrammed; or, you can hire a professional to duplicate the existing cuts, and program a whole new key. This exacting task needs to be done by a reliable expert automotive locksmith specialist.

Has there been an attempt to steal your vehicle? What often occurs is that an amateur car thief will make a mess of your steering column and ignition switch. If so, it’s time to replace the entire ignition assembly.

Be on the lookout for these ignition warning signs:

the steering wheel sometimes gets stuck, or even becomes immovable

the key comes out, even while your car is still running

you may observe higher auto emissions or increased fuel consumption

you can’t even get the key in the ignition at all

your vehicle may be prone to stalling while idling

you’re noticing car battery problems

Check the Status

When you put your key into the ignition switch and turn it, there are typically three status positions:

1In the “off” status position, no power is being transmitted to the engine or system.

2In the “on” status position, the dashboard lights come on, but your engine’s still off.

3In the “start” position, you exert full key pressure, and it fires up the engine.

One sure sign of a faulty ignition switch is that your instrument panel doesn’t illuminate when your key is in position 2.

Do It Yourself

If you’re going to replace the ignition switch by yourself, be sure you know what you’re doing ahead of time. It’s not easy, especially with newer cars, because they often have anti-theft devices. Removing or replacing your ignition switch without taking the proper precautions, and without using the right tools, can make your car inoperable! The electrical current running through the system can cause major bodily harm. Therefore, keep all metallic objects away from electrical wires. The whole process involves removing the steering column, disconnecting the battery cable from the battery terminal, removing the wiring harness that’s connected to the ignition switch, and so on, before you can install a new ignition switch.

Unless you’re sure you know exactly what you’re doing, it’s better to hire an expert. If you’re any place in Temecula, California, it’s a good idea to choose a professional automotive locksmith specialist, such as the mobile staff technicians of Temecula Locksmith.

[temeculals]

Police Say These Safety Tips Could Prevent You From Being The Victim Of A Burglary… Or Worse

None of us want to think highly of criminals, but we need to acknowledge that they’re quite clever about finding creative new ways to break the law. That’s why it’s so important to stay informed about the latest crime-prevention techniques to help protect yourself and your property.

In this video, police officer Kandy Perry breaks down the common tactics criminals like to use and, more importantly, what you can do to keep yourself, your family, and your home safe.

To watch the video, just visit Police Say These Safety Tips Could Prevent You From Being The Victim Of A Burglary… Or Worse.