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Choosing the Best High Security Locks

When your home or business absolutely needs to be protected with the utmost level of strong security, it’s essential to understand all the variable factors of high security locks in order to determine what the best locks for your needs are. In this brief blog post, the residential security and commercial security experts at LocksmithMAN will help you understand exactly how to choose the best high security locks for your needs.

Lock Cylinder

You want the lock cylinder to be made of a complicated internal makeup, reducing the chances that a burglar will be able by using a bump key, lock impressor, or picking. The more complicated your lock cylinder is, the fewer amount of people will even attempt to try to break through your security. If you’re looking for a keypad only door lock, you don’t even have to worry about lock cylinders.

Metal

You want the lock to be made of as much strong metal as possible. Since parts of the door need to be absent when the door lock is installed, requiring cross-boring, the door will be vulnerable around the lock hardware area. The best high security door locks add metal content that help protect this vulnerable area of your door. You can usually tell if a lock has a good amount of metal just by holding it in your hand. Heavy locks don’t utilize large gaps or plastic parts to reduce manufacturing cost – while sacrificing security. Any good high security lock needs to have heavy and strong metal in spades.

Bolts

You want your lock to have hardened steel bolts that can resist bludgeoning attacks like battering, sledge hammers, shoulder strikes, or kicks. Bolts should also be resistant to cutting with hacksaws or reciprocating saws.

Drills

Criminals often utilize drilling as a breakin method. You want to ensure that your high security lock has set screws and a shear line protected with hardened ball bearings, and/or rotating anti-drill plates to help protect them from the risk of being drilled.

Key Control

You want to ensure that you buy a high security lock that has patented keyways in order to maintain key control and reduce the amount of people that might be able to use your lock. You’re definitely going to want to know the right way to hide your spare keys (not under your mats!) but it definitely is an essential to ONLY EVER use locks that have special patented keyways.

Bypassing

High security locks should never have bypass methods like thumbturns – they are simply easy entry methods, and basically allow for the canceling out of the complex security enforcing structure of a lock allowing potential burglars to exploit a lock’s weakness. Make sure to research whether or not the high security lock that you are using has a bypass method.

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Difference Between Transponder and Non-Transponder Car Keys

Most cars today come outfit with electronic keys fit with transponder chips – it’s a common security measure that is now the standard in the industry. However, many older, more vintage cars rely on typical mechanical keys for successful operation. Here’s a guide from the automotive lockout experts here at LocksmithMAN on the difference between transponder keys and non-transponder keys.

What Exactly are Transponder Car Keys?

Transponder keys transformed the security standards of the automotive industry after they began being used in the year 1985. General Motors introduced the – then luxurious – transponder key in their Corvette of that year. Transponder keys – like typical keys – use metallic blades with a specific sequence cut out inside it in order to fit the car’s ignition. However, transponder keys hold a small chip inside their plastic gap. This chip receives a radio frequency signal from an antenna ring in the car’s immobilizer, and then sends its own coded frequency back to the antenna. This antenna will then transmit this code to the car’s computer, which will disable the car immobilizer, allowing it to start. This entire process occurs in a simple matter of seconds.

  Transponder keys were invented as a solution for the issue of car theft. Stealing a car became as simple as touching two wires together to make the car start – a process colloquially known as ‘hot wiring.’ With transponder keys, even if a car thief can get past the door locks of your car, they will not be able to start it – because there is no radio frequency code being transmitted to disable the immobilizer. Transponder keys ALWAYS need to be programmed to match the code in the car’s system – otherwise, they are useless to start the car. Professional automotive locksmiths, like those here at LocksmithMAN, can easily cut and program transponder keys to match your vehicle – as well as deleting old key codes from your car’s system, in case you have lost your original set of transponder keys.

  What are non-transponder car keys?

Before the invention of transponder car keys, the majority of cars used typical metallic cut car keys. Non-transponder keys can still be high security – as they are usually double cut on their top and lower half, making it almost impossible to start the ignition without them – even with criminal picking tools. However, their lack of an immobilier-connected system will allow for the chance for criminals to start the engine if they hot-wire the car or manage to turn the ignition. Hot wiring is the most common method of car theft – and non-transponder keys can be easily copied by automotive locksmiths. 

  It’s not possible to upgrade your non-transponder key to a transponder key, as if you have an older car model, it’s likely it doesn’t have a built-in immobilizer system. Make sure not to spend the extra money buying a new transponder key blank if you’re just looking to replace your lost non-transponder car keys. This concept is true vice-versa as well – don’t accidentally buy a chipless key if your car utilizer a transponder system, as you won’t be able to start your car. You can count on the automotive transponder key copying and programming experts here at LocksmithMAN to instantly provide you with perfectly operational transponder keys.

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LocksmithMAN provides expert lock installation services. www.locksmithman.ca/lock-installation/  1-204-430-7730

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LocksmithMAN provides expert key copying, duplicaiton, repair, and extraction services throughout the entire Winnipeg area. www.locksmithman.ca/keys 1-204-430-7730 

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In this blog post, the lock installation and home security experts here at Locksmith Man CA will provide you with some valuable tips on how to protect your home while you are away on vacation.

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3 Situations That Warrant Emergency Locksmith Services

No matter how careful you are, there’s still a chance you may find yourself in a sticky situation involving your keys. These are some of those scenarios that warrant an emergency locksmith service Winnipeg.

When your toddler locks themselves in the house

In a home lockout scenario, older children may take some set of instructions but if your toddler locks themselves in a room or house, the whole story changes. The thought of your child locked in the house is enough to strike terror into the heart of any parent but you need to keep calm then act swiftly. If it’s an interior door, you might be able to unscrew the door if the screws are visible. However, exterior door locks are meant to enhance security and not privacy so these are usually sturdier and harder to unscrew. If this is the situation, call an emergency locksmith immediately and while you wait, keep your child engaged by talking to them until the locksmith arrives. For prompt response, call a locksmith in your local area. As a preventative measure, once the locksmith has resolved the emergency talk to them about childproofing your doors. You want to prevent a recurring situation where your child locks themselves in even more dangerous rooms of the house such as the kitchen.

Broken keys in Lock

Imagine this:  You have a few minutes to get to an appointment, you run for the door lock and as you turn the key, it snaps and breaks. What do you do? In a scenario like this, you have no time to struggle to retrieve the key from the lock so your only quick solution should be to call an emergency locksmith. In situations where you’re not in a rush but your efforts to retrieve them are in vain, you’ll be in for a lockout if you don’t get help soon. The tricky part about removing broken keys in the lock is you need some tools. If you don’t have the necessary tools, you may end up damaging the entire lock. To prevent keys from breaking in the future, lubricate them regularly so they don’t get jammed in the locking mechanisms and break off. Also, replace any old keys so they remain functional.

Break-Ins

If you recently experienced a burglary or you suspect someone tried tampering with your lock, prioritize calling an emergency locksmith.  For the sake of your home’s security and for your peace of mind, getting the locks changed after such an incident should be your top priority. If your lock has been tampered with, chances are that someone examined your lock. The only way you can be assured of safety is if you change the locks. If your house was broken into, consider getting stronger locks and also installing a security system to prevent future burglaries.

Emergency locksmith is all about finding a prompt and effective solution.  If you happen to be in any of the scenarios above, call (204) 813-9553 now and we’ll send one of our well-trained 24-hour locksmith crews over! At LocksmithMAN, we are dedicated to providing the best service to all our clients.

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Replacement For Different Car Key Types

Losing car keys does not have to give you extensive headaches – easier said than done! That is why the following tips can help you deal with your car key lost problem before you start fretting.

Search Immediate Surrounding

In life some days are good and others frustrating. It’s therefore not surprising to forget car keys just about anywhere. Before you start contacting your dealership or locksmith for key replacement, first inspect your environs. Then, contact the people recently had an encounter with. Often times, people also lock their keys inside the car.

Identify Your Car Key Type

Once you are sure you cannot locate your keys, the next step is to identify your key type. Your type of car key lost can be any of the following:

Transponder key

Most cars built after the late around 1993 comes with a responder key. These keys have an inbuilt rf transmitter which transmits a signal that is extremely low. The vehicle can only detect the signal when the key is inserted and only then will the car start. This key provides a minimal chance of being hotwired hence increasing car security. With that being the case, it is complicated to replace a transponder key but our locksmiths know their way around these types so don’t sweat it.

Traditional car keys

If you consider yourself forgetful, you can implement these pro-tips. In the meantime, though, you should take preference into traditional keys. This type is made mechanically by a key cutting machine so it’s pretty easy to replace. Traditional keys may compromise your car’s security since in the hands of the wrong person, there’s a risk of easy duplication.

Laser-cut keys

They also go by names sidewinder key or internal cut key. Unlike the traditional key, which is cut along the edge, laser-cut keys are cut through the center. This makes them hard to replace. Only the car dealer of a well-trained locksmith can replace a laser-cut key.

Among other keys are electronic keys, remote control, switchable key, and smart keys.

Identify Your Vehicle Information

The dealership or locksmith will have to gather enough information about your car before they can prepare for a replacement. Failure to provide the correct information may result in keys that fail to operate your car. Essentially, identify the type of car key lost. Narrow down to the car model and identification number, registration number and the year of the vehicle. Your insurance card should contain all this information so if you’re missing any details, you can check there. If you don’t have all the information and you also can’t get a hold of your insurance card, the locksmith can come conduct a quick examination of your car to gather these details.

Evaluate Your Service Provider Options

The last and most step of getting a car key replacement is zeroing down on who to contract for the service. On this, you have two options; to contact a locksmith or your car dealer. If your car is much older, locksmith services will be cheaper compared to dealership. Again, unlike dealers, most locksmiths are flexible so they will easily show up on your location. You’re also more likely to get a quick response from a locksmith that you would from a dealer. This is because dealers don’t specialize in replacement lost car keys, rather selling and servicing cars.

For more information on car key replacement, contact licensed locksmiths at LockmithMAN at (204) 813-9854

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Your Business Needs a Security Budget

As companies set aside a budget for various departments, security often gets left out. Yet there’s a wide array of threats that businesses face; from internal threats to external ones. In the event of break-ins and frauds, businesses that don’t have a security budget in place end up losing a lot of money. In turn, this has detrimental effects on the overall business performance. Essentially therefore, having a modicum of business security in place, helps ventures stay prepared for threats not even perceived. Here are more reasons why you need to set aside a security budget for your business.

Setting aside a security budget saves you money

It’s a production that is done with a cast of one or just but a few, has no script, no lights, no audience and it’s mounted every 10 seconds – yet it fetches the producers some $1.4 billion annually (purely profits). If you do your calculations, this is almost $4 million per day. Its name is “Burglary.” One of the histories longest running show. That your business location prides in being on one of the safer streets is not a security assurance. Without a security plan in place, all businesses are prone to theft. And unfortunately, unlike lightning, thieves are notorious for striking the same place multiple times. Away from your business’s physical security, nowadays, with the rise in internet fraud, all it takes to bring your business down on its knees is a single compromised password. With all these facts, getting a commercial locksmith to inspect your locks and help you come up with more secure locking systems will enhance the physical security of your business by discouraging burglars.  A security budget also caters for internet and online fraud prevention.

Part of setting up the budget is revising or upgrading security procedures

When setting aside a business security budget, it’s natural that you will also revise or upgrade your business security policies and procedures. When there’s a gap in your business’s security policies or procedures, your enterprise is prone to theft. Keep in mind, thieves keep upgrading their skills, so when you don’t upgrade your policies, your business becomes an easy target. Security procedures refer to detailed actions and instructions on how to implement security controls as enumerated in the security policies. Security procedures ensure consistency in the execution of a security business process. These procedures are to be followed to the letter each time a security threat arises. They provide direction to how your employees should behave in regards to the company data, assets, physical access and so on. Security policies, on the other hand, define who, what and why, in regards to the desired behavior of the overall security posture.

Preparedness in times of emergencies

It goes without saying, setting aside a business security budgets is itself a plan in times of emergencies. Security threats don’t just refer to burglaries and internet frauds. Natural disasters could also leave your security systems damaged. Natural disasters can strike anytime, anywhere; sometimes predicted and often times striking without warning. Floods, earthquakes, wildfires, and blizzards could potentially disrupt your supply chains, communication, physical building, equipment, and security systems. Every business in disaster-prone areas should have a disaster emergency plan in place, part of this should be a security plan.

There’s a direct relationship between the security of your business and its success. By setting aside a security budget, you make it easier for your business to bounce back from detrimental events such as burglaries, and natural disasters.

As companies set aside a budget for various departments, security often gets left out. Yet there’s a wide array of threats that businesses face; from internal threats to external ones. In the event of break-ins and frauds, businesses that don’t have a security budget in place end up losing a lot of money. In turn, this has detrimental effects on the overall business performance. Essentially therefore, having a modicum of business security in place, helps ventures stay prepared for threats not even perceived. Here are more reasons why you need to set aside a security budget for your business.

Setting aside a security budget saves you money

It’s a production that is done with a cast of one or just but a few, has no script, no lights, no audience and it’s mounted every 10 seconds – yet it fetches the producers some $1.4 billion annually (purely profits). If you do your calculations, this is almost $4 million per day. Its name is “Burglary.” One of the histories longest running show. That your business location prides in being on one of the safer streets is not a security assurance. Without a security plan in place, all businesses are prone to theft. And unfortunately, unlike lightning, thieves are notorious for striking the same place multiple times. Away from your business’s physical security, nowadays, with the rise in internet fraud, all it takes to bring your business down on its knees is a single compromised password. With all these facts, getting a commercial locksmith to inspect your locks and help you come up with more secure locking systems will enhance the physical security of your business by discouraging burglars.  A security budget also caters for internet and online fraud prevention.

Part of setting up the budget is revising or upgrading security procedures

When setting aside a business security budget, it’s natural that you will also revise or upgrade your business security policies and procedures. When there’s a gap in your business’s security policies or procedures, your enterprise is prone to theft. Keep in mind, thieves keep upgrading their skills, so when you don’t upgrade your policies, your business becomes an easy target. Security procedures refer to detailed actions and instructions on how to implement security controls as enumerated in the security policies. Security procedures ensure consistency in the execution of a security business process. These procedures are to be followed to the letter each time a security threat arises. They provide direction to how your employees should behave in regards to the company data, assets, physical access and so on. Security policies, on the other hand, define who, what and why, in regards to the desired behavior of the overall security posture.

Preparedness in times of emergencies

It goes without saying, setting aside a business security budgets is itself a plan in times of emergencies. Security threats don’t just refer to burglaries and internet frauds. Natural disasters could also leave your security systems damaged. Natural disasters can strike anytime, anywhere; sometimes predicted and often times striking without warning. Floods, earthquakes, wildfires, and blizzards could potentially disrupt your supply chains, communication, physical building, equipment, and security systems. Every business in disaster-prone areas should have a disaster emergency plan in place, part of this should be a security plan.

There’s a direct relationship between the security of your business and its success. By setting aside a security budget, you make it easier for your business to bounce back from detrimental events such as burglaries, and natural disasters.

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Security Enhancements For Tenants

Tenants often struggle with how to secure their homes without making invasive changes to the property. They may not have the freedom to mount new storm doors or install complicated security systems. Nonetheless, as a tenant, there are a number of ways you can boost the security of your home without breaking the lease.

Changing door locks

in a perfect world, every time a tenant moves out, landlords should change the locks in preparation for a new occupant. After all, as part of proper maintenance, landlords are responsible for the safety and security of their tenants. Unfortunately, we don’t live in a perfect world and your landlord may delay changing the locks. The danger with keeping the old lock is that you don’t know how many people have keys to your door. So, for your peace of mind, it’s better you foot the bill but have a residential locksmith install new door locks.

If the locks are keyless, it goes without saying that you should change the code and only share it with your family members of those you intend to have access to your home. If security is a real concern in your new location, you could talk to your landlord about installing superior locking systems. For instance, if you have euro cylinder locks, you could upgrade to anti-snap cylinders. Grade1 deadbolts also provide better security.

Use a safe for irreplaceable valuables and personal documents

Even with the best-laid home security systems, there’s no way  guarantee a hundred percent security from burglary. So as a tenant, how about you prepare for worst case scenarios; we are talking about break-ins. If an intruder manages to get in your house, a well installed and a cleverly hidden safe will protect your valuables. As you probably already know, in the hands of a thieve, your personal documents such as social security cards, driver’s license and other personal documents are valuable items that a thief can use to commit crimes.

The two most frequently chosen types of safes are burglar proof safe and fireproof safes. Burglar proof safes have thicker walls and require a code for access. Fireproof ones normally have a double metal wall. You can choose either depending on your priority need.

Explore already installed home security systems

Your landlord may balk at you drilling holes on the wall as you install a wired security system. Fortunately, there are other alarm options specifically designed for rentals. Several companies offer wireless solutions so this is one option you can explore. You could also find out if your new home has a pre-existing system. Some houses already have an unused system installed and if this is so, you’re lucky. You can engage your landlord and see how you can collaborate to come up with a short-term security plan.

Outdoor lighting

Most tenants forget to install outdoor lights yet lighting plays such a major role in enhancing security. Your home should be well-lit from the entrance, to the stairs and all the way up to your front door. If your budget allows you can choose to keep the lights on throughout the night. Alternatively, install motion activated lights to conserve energy. According to research, lighting is burglar deterrent.

If you’re willing to invest a little energy (and maybe a little cash), the non-invasive changes above can help you secure the place you call home. The good thing with these ideas is that they are well within your rights, regardless of whether the property in question is yours or not.

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Panic Bars and How they Enhance Commercial Building Safety

Panic bars, also known as crash bars, push bars or touch bars, are locks with a spring-loaded metal bar fitted horizontally to a door on the side that is inside a building or room. Unlike handles and knobs that are manipulated by turning and pushing, panic bars are only pushed against to unlatch and open a door simultaneously. This swings the door outwards and towards the exit direction, easing and quickening an exit. Panic bars should only be installed by a skilled emergency locksmith service professionals. They install these locks as per the recommended standards to enhance safety and security in a commercial building.

Most countries have regulations put in place for public buildings and commercial buildings to enhance safety during an emergency. These include setting a minimum number of emergencies exits from a building. These emergency exits should ensure safe and smooth exit of persons from rooms or buildings in case of emergencies. Panic bars significantly contribute to these safety precautions.

Panic Bars and Commercial Building Safety

During an emergency inside a public or commercial building, when those in the commercial building panic, movement towards the exit is usually are chaotic and disastrous. This is because when approaching a door, in the event that the people closest to the door stop or slow down while trying to operate the door, the ones at the back of the crowd will not stop nor slow down but still come charging through. This results in a stampede. Panic bars help eliminate that risk. A simple push to the panic bar swings the door outwards seamlessly. This does not slow down the exit speed or stop it at the door- limiting a stampede.

A feature that panic bars have that makes it different from most locks is that it is difficult to pick. This feature makes unauthorized external access difficult. The commercial building remains secure from forced entry even during non-business hours. Some panic bars come with an alarm that sounds off when accessed. You will find doors with these alarms labeled with words such as, ‟alarm will sound if a door is opened or door alarm.” This deters or detects illegal or unauthorized exit from buildings or to unauthorized building sections. These doors do more than alert in case of illegal exits. When doors with panic bars fitted with alarms are accessed, they set off alarms in the whole building. Since these doors are only used in emergencies, this alerts everyone in the building to respond accordingly to the emergency, minimizing casualties and fatalities.

Doors fitted with panic doors help manage entrance and exit into a commercial building. The identity of people gaining entry into a commercial building is of more concern than the ones exiting. Because panic bars deny access from outside, it is easy to identify unauthorized entry and deter potential threats. To ensure more security, another feature can be added to panic bars. External Trim Locks can be installed on the outer side of a panic bar door to aid access from outside. Evidently, panic bars ease access from the inside, but external trim locks give exclusive external access. They can be accessed using a key where external access to a building is necessary. These locks can be installed on demand.

Panic bars enhance safety and security in public and commercial buildings. To safeguard the lives of your employees, don’t wait for disaster to strike to install panic bars.

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Getting a New Car Key Made Without the Original

Your car is your ticket to mobility so once you lose the keys, you’re stuck. Most car manufacturers provide two car keys for two reasons: First, so that you can have an alternative key to use when the first is damaged or misplaced. Secondly, the spare key acts as the blueprint to making a replacement for a lost car key. But what happens when you need your car key replaced without the original? Here is a breakdown of what to expect.

Missing your original car key can leave you quite frustrated, especially in times of emergencies. Yet, unlike back in the day, nowadays, not all keys are universal. In fact, most car keys are specific to the car. So, once you lose your keys, you need to know which type of key you had so the automotive locksmith professional will know which one you need. This is why it helps to always keep a spare key. If you own a Ford Escape, for instance, you cannot operate it without its corresponding Ford car key. In case you’ve lost or damaged your car key, you have the option of seeking replacement services from your respective car key dealership or professional services of a qualified automotive locksmith.  The great thing about automotive locksmiths that car dealers may not be able to provide is mobility. Locksmiths can meet you at your location which is obviously more convenient. The first question a locksmith will most probably going to ask you is, “do you have the original with you?” This is because it is generally much easier to make a car key replacement with the original present. Luckily, thanks to technological advancements and competent locksmiths, it is possible to get a new car key made even without the original.

The first step to getting your car key replaced is determining the type of key that you have. The locksmith will ask you which type of key your car uses, even before they make the trip to your location. You simply need to know whether your car uses a traditional mechanical key, a transponder key or a key fob. To avoid additional charges, ensure you give the locksmith correct information. Inaccurate information will force the locksmith to make trips back to the warehouse; some locksmiths will transfer this cost to the client.

Secondly, you need to have proof of ownership of the vehicle as well as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). In the event that you do not have the original key, automotive locksmiths use the VIN to identify which key corresponds to your specific vehicle. They are able to do this as they have access to car key code information. The VIN is located somewhere on your dashboard or on the engine bay. If you have trouble locating it, you can leave that to the auto-locksmith professional.

The process of getting a new car key made without the original takes longer than duplicating another key. With the above, an auto locksmith will use the VIN to peruse their vast vehicle database, select the right car key for you and make a new one. Should the new car key need programming, the auto-locksmith will see to it.  Once you have a new car key, ensure you have a duplicate made in order to avoid such misfortunes in the future.

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Office Bifold Doors: Locking Systems

The concept of introducing nature into the indoors has become a huge design trend in both residential and commercial spaces. Besides creating a modern look, bi-fold doors bring in a great deal of warmth and light into a space making them an energy efficient option. In the place of a wall, you could actually use bi-fold doors to increase airflow into the office. Because they are hinged, these doors are practical for small office spaces since they take up very little space when opened. Bi-fold doors typically allow access to 90 percent of the doors opening making them also ideal for high traffic spaces. When it comes to commercial spaces, security is obviously a major concern. Compared to French doors and sliding doors, bi-fold doors are generally much harder to break into.

Bi-fold doors are secure by design and for security purposes, many come with a multi-locking system and a hidden inline tracking system. The two decrease the likelihood of burglars lifting the doors out of their mechanism. Within the bottom track is a concealed gear where the doors are attached. If an intruder wants to remove the door, they’d also need to remove the gear— a mission simply impossible. Regardless of these inbuilt features, for increased safety, you obviously need to get a decent bi-fold door lock.

For a simple door lock, you can consider using a padlock. The commercial locksmith will install a hinged hasp so that one side sits on the face of one unit and the other on the face of the other unit. The lock body will itself cover the folding portion of the lock. Just like with a normal door, inserting a padlock through the hasp will keep the door locked only giving access to someone with keys.

Drop bolts can also be installed on both in and out of swinging doors. These locks have a door locking time delay which is basically the time between the bolt engaging and the door being closed. Typically, door locking time delay can be set up to 9 seconds. To enhance security, the sensor automatically disconnects after the bolt is projected. Although drop bolts are more menacing looking, and will definitely enhance your bi-fold door’s security, they shouldn’t be the sole source of security. You can complement drop bolts with deadbolts (a more secure option). What makes deadbolts more secure is the fact that they need to be engaged when the door is closed. They can be controlled with either an internal locking mechanism or a key. Their unique locking device is built into the bolt and prevents unwanted entry.

To enhance security even further, you can add security screens. This helps mask the interior from prying eyes whilst keeping good visibility. Alarms can also be fitted to the doors for additional security. Also, make sure you double glaze the doors. You can’t afford to invest so much into securing singled glazed doors that can easily be smashed.

As a final note, the best security that you can have for your home or business is a high-quality locking device that is actually used on a consistent basis. The major difference between locks is the degree of difficulty in breaking into them, cost, and materials. Investing in high-security keys and quality deadbolts then hiring a Winnipeg commercial locksmith for installation is well worth the long-term investment.

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How do You Secure your Airbnb?

Ever wondered how Airbnb came about? Here is the little story: Two grads in San Francisco, in a bid to make some extra bucks, took advantage of an opportunity. A large conference was passing through their hometown and hotels were booking up fast. To meet the demand, they decided to put their apartment on offer, then created a simple website and gave it the name ‟Air Bed & Breakfast.” Their target was visitors who wanted to avoid the extortionate hotel prices. This happened in 2007. Fast forward to today, with millions using their homes as business ventures, Airbnb has significantly reshaped the hospitality industry. Regardless of the exponential growth in the industry, one of the biggest challenges Airbnb face is the security implications of letting out houses to strangers. How do you take advantage of the lucrative business without compromising the security of your home?

Of course, before inviting someone in your space you must do a background check to verify suitability. After the guest makes payment, rather than just engaging remotely, it’s also advisable you meet the guest in person just to create a personal connection. There’s always a lot more you can pick from face to face meetings away from perfectly filled documentation. For instance, how well-maintained is your guest’s car? Does it look like a McDonald’s dumpster with completely worn out tires? Chances are that your guest will treat your space in a similar manner, if not worse. While we aren’t asking you to discriminate, your primary responsibility should be to protect your property.

A move from traditional locks to keyless ones

Even with great guests, your home’s security needs to be vamped-up, and one way to do this is by getting the right key options. If your doors have conventional locks, it’s time to ditch those for smart locks. Imagine how cumbersome and expensive it would be if you have to rekey your locks every time a visitor checks out.! In the nascent Internet of Things, people are beginning to implement smarter ways of living, and security hasn’t been left out. A global expert on locks and physical security, Marc Weber Tobias, notes that the wireless locking systems that have been in the commercial space for years are finally coming to residential abodes as well.

With keyless locks, instead of giving your guests physical keys that can be lost or copied, you give them smartphone keys. A smartphone key is a code you generate using your phone and at the click on a button, it’s delivered to your guest. You can generate codes a specific date, time and duration. What this means is that as soon as the visitor checks out, their code expires so you revoke access just as easily as you generated the code. Once access has been revoked, the guest can no longer gain access to your house. If you have multiple properties to rent out, smartphone keys are the ideal security solution.

The age of internet has made it possible to use gadgets for convenience. So, if you can lie on your couch with your hands clutched onto your smartphone, and control multiple door locks from an entirely different location, why would you want physical keys? If you’re looking to use your space to make extra bucks, contact Winnipeg residential locksmith services for smart lock installation. Our well-trained locksmith will do that in a matter of minutes – the process is pretty straightforward.

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About Re-Keying

If you haven’t come across the term rekeying, most people haven’t either. And this is exactly why many homeowners after losing their keys, or moving into a new apartment, end up changing their locks entirely instead of getting their locks rekeyed. Although there’s nothing wrong about changing your door locks, it makes no sense to get rid of high-quality locks only to replace them with low graded ones. If you lose your keys, changing the entire lock is not the only solution. By simply contacting an emergency locksmith service contractor, you can have your locks rekeyed, this way you get to keep your lock and save some cash; rekeying is obviously more cost-effective compared to lock replacement.

Rekeying a lock is a process where the locksmith reconfigures the tumblers of a lock and readjusts the internal parts of the lock so that it can function with a different key. Simply put, rekeying allows you to keep your old lock but with a change of keys. You will therefore no longer use your old key. The process is not as simple as it sounds, so if your profession doesn’t involve keys and locks, instead of gallivanting down the rabbit hole of rekeying, how about you call a well-trained locksmith and have them save you the hassle.

When Should You Rekey Your Locks?

When moving houses

Your new home is never really yours until you take control of its locks, so moving houses is the most obvious reason for rekeying. If you’re moving to a house that has had previous occupants, you want to make sure that the previous owners and housekeepers don’t have access to your house. But even when you’re moving to a brand-new house, you will still want to rekey because the contractors most likely have a copy of the keys. To beef up the security of your new home, you want to make sure that anyone who has an old set of keys cannot access your house. After getting your locks rekeyed, you can ask your locksmith to get you a master key that can be used to access all other locks. On this, always secure your master key to avoid unauthorized use or recopying.

Key misplacement

If you’ve lost/ misplaced your keys and your intensive search has yielded no results, rekeying will end your search turmoil. If one of your family members has a similar set of keys, you could opt to have those duplicated, but how sure are you that your lost keys didn’t fall into the wrong hands? Rekeying is a better way to keep your home secure even after losing your keys.

Your keys no longer work well

Keys, like most things, won’t last forever. If your keys keep jamming in the locks or show signs of oxidation, consider rekeying. If your key is not working properly, it’s also possible that the lock is suffering wear and tear. In such instances, your locksmith should replace the entire lock. But only an experienced locksmith can ascertain whether you need rekeying or lock replacement. Generally, a rule of thumb is that locks should be rekeyed every five years.

Other reasons that call for rekeying include recent cases of burglary. Some people also choose to rekey for convenience sake where instead of having different keys for different locks, you want all your locks to match one single key. Whatever your reason for rekeying, have a well-trained contractor from LocksmithMAN handle the job.

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Is it Okay to Buy your Auto Keys Online?

What do you do when you need to replace your car keys? There are different options to choose from. The most obvious option recommended by manufacturers is contacting your car dealer. Car dealers have the resources to cut you a new key and program it for your car. They may however, require you to tow the car to their nearest warehouse.

If you find this time consuming, hiring a local automotive locksmith professional to offer an on-site key replacement service would be a faster solution. One advantage of hiring an on-site locksmith is that most locksmiths operate round the clock, guaranteeing car key replacement in a matter of minutes. But what about buying your auto key online? What are the implications of going online to replace your car keys?

What going the online way means for you?

Replacing auto keys is more technical than it seems. Locksmiths and car dealers have the technical know-how of dealing with different types of car keys. Ordering your auto keys online is however a totally different story. You first need to know the type of key that needs replacement otherwise you’ll end up purchasing a wrong key. It could be a key fob, a transponder key, a metal key blade, a PAT/VAT key or a proximity key. Furthermore, many online auto key replacement platforms sell key blanks as opposed to cut keys. Reason being, car keys are designed and programmed to only work on a specific car. This makes it difficult to replace a car key without its duplicate or its FCC ID.

Locksmiths, on the other hand, can cut different keys from the key blanks. For instance, while blank transponder keys can be cut into ignition locks, skeleton key blanks are used to make the traditional types of keys.

Going the online way also means that you have to wait for the key to be delivered. It therefore only works for you if you have the luxury of waiting. The time it takes to deliver the key varies depending on your location. Giving the wrong information when ordering your car keys will not only result in loss of money, but it will further inconvenience you as it may take the online retailer a further day or two to deliver the right set of car keys.

How to go about it

Most online retailers display the total price of the key blanks, including delivery. You can compare the prices with a quote from your local locksmith and decide if it is worth it. Additionally, always remember to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) when ordering your auto keys. Some online retailers are able to cut the key blanks to the right specifications given the VIN.

If you decide to replace our keys from a local locksmith, ensure you have proof of car ownership. Have your identification and a copy of your log books with you. Ensure to provide your local locksmith with the VIN as well. The VIN provides important information about the car and its keys, which in turn guides the locksmiths in carrying the right tools needed to cut and program your blank keys.

So, is it okay to buy your auto keys online? It totally is, if you don’t mind waiting for the blanks to be delivered to your location and the additional costs of hiring auto locksmith services to have the key blanks cut and programmed to your car’s specifications. But how about you hire an onsite locksmith and just cut the whole process?

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Before Giving Your Child a House Key: 3 Things to Consider

If your child gets home before you do, you don’t want them crouching outside the door waiting for you to get home. Yet at the same time, you may feel concerned about whether your child is responsible enough to keep the house key safe. Again, with the increase in residential break-ins, leaving your front doors unlocked to allow your kids access when they get home gives room for opportunity burglary. Issuing your child with a house key is clearly a very difficult decision to make. This article points out some key considerations to help you make this crucial decision.

Is your child old enough to say home alone?

While age is an important factor in growth and maturity, the decision to give your child a house key shouldn’t be guided by age only. There are more factors to take into consideration.  Canada Safety Council (CSC) stipulates that legally, a child below the age of 12 cannot be left alone at home unsupervised. And even when your child is 12 years, home alone shouldn’t mean four-plus hours of solitude.

This said, your child can be 12 years but unprepared to handle the house keys. Paying attention to other indicators of maturity will help you decide if this is the right time. For example, does your child do their homework independently? Can they follow simple directions in the house? Are they constantly losing things? Combining your instinct as a parent with such indicators will help you decide whether this is the right time to issue your child with their copy of key, or whether you should wait a little longer.

Is Your Child Prepared?

You can’t wake up one morning and hand over some set of keys to your child. No matter how mature your child is, they still need preparation. To start with, just in case of an emergency, you need to ensure that your child has your full details. Details such as your phone number, contacts of your workplace and contacts of other close family members. Additionally, can your child do simple things such as heating food in the microwave? Does your child know a few basic first aid procedures? Before giving your child a house key, you must be sure they are prepared to stay alone in the house. Once you’ve ascertained that your child is ready to have their key, practice locking and unlocking the door until it’s a breeze for them.

Frequency of time spent home alone

You also need to consider whether your child will need to unlock the door every day or just occasionally when you’re out running an errand. If it’s an everyday thing, you need to minimize the chances of losing the key by securing it with a lanyard that can either be worn around their neck or attached on their backpack. On this note, for security reasons, never opt for key hideaways. Most burglars do their homework before breaking in, so if you keep the key under a doormat, you’ll be comprising the security of your home. If you don’t want your child walking around with latched keys or a lanyard hanging on their neck, opt for keyless entries such as smart locks (these make safer options).

When deciding on whether it’s the right time to give your child their set of keys, consider the law, your child’s maturity, their preparedness, and frequency of time spent home alone. Start slowly by leaving your child for say 20 minutes, and gradually extend the time. For more information Winnipeg residential locksmith services, please feel free to get in touch with LocksmithMAN right away!

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Forbidden Territory: Childproofing Your Home

Household accidents are one of the top reasons kids under 3 years land in the E.R. each year. Babies are born with a raw curiosity which is why right from when they start to crawl (about 8 months), keeping them safe becomes a paramount issue for every parent. For the sake of your child’s security, you need to childproof your home. Keep reading and learn how to childproof your home.

Medicine and other potentially household products should be kept under key and lock

In their curiosity, children will ingest anything in sight. You must store all prescriptions and non-prescriptions out of your children’s reach and sight. Even the seemingly harmless items such as mouthwash can have detrimental effects when ingested in large quantities. Store anything that could potentially pose harm to your child in a locked cabinet.  Ensure that your cabinets stay under key and lock at all times. If your cabinet doesn’t have a latch, have one installed. Alternatively, ask a locksmith to install some keyless locks. Keep in mind, just because your cabinets are high up doesn’t mean your child can’t get to them. Your child could easily climb on the table, stool, or the countertop just to access the cabinet.

Toilet locks

Toilets infinitely amuse toddlers. Kids view them as water play features and so at any given chance, don’t be surprised if you find your toddler in the toilet. Toddlers could easily drown in the toilet and besides, it’s plain gross when your child decides to go right into the toilet. ewwww!  To baby-proof your toilet, you could simply keep the bathroom door locked but what if you forget to close the bathroom it? You’ll be lucky if you don’t find the toilet packed with toilet paper and stuffed animals and oops! Even your iPhone could go right into the toilet!. Locking the bathroom door is important since you most likely have other off-the limit stuff in the bathroom such as detergents, but the safest way to childproof your toilet is to ask your locksmith to install a  toilet lock.

Doors

If your child locks themselves in the house or whichever room of the house, panic ensues and it’s understandable why. Smaller children may not know how to follow instructions on how to unlock the door. To prevent your child from opening doors or getting locked in a room, install safety door knob covers. When purchasing door knob covers, go for polypropylene fiber material since its usually non-toxic, odorless, and non-polluting. Those with strong snaps and double protection also make a great choice since they are harder to remove.

Extra tips to child-proof your home

Never tell your children that medicine tastes like candy.

Teach your child about medicine safety.

Do not put cleaning products in old juice/soda bottles or any containers once used for food.

Set up rules to not play with the locks.

Complete child-proofing of your house requires you to get to a kids-view by getting down on your hands and knees, then checking around on what could be dangerous. If you haven’t child-proofed all your rooms, always ensure the doors remain shut to limit access.

Remember, whether you have a toddler, a baby, or a school-age child, your home can either be a safe place for them to explore or one full of hazards. If your child accidentally gets locked in the house, call for emergency locksmith service at LocksmithMAN today!

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