Mobile Locksmith Winnetka

If you are in Winnetka, locksmith service that is available 24/7 and affordable too, can be accessed by calling the local shop of Mobile Locksmith Winnetka.

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HOW TO INCREASE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SECURITY

Business owners everywhere have more options now when it comes to securing their properties than ever before. With endless security options, businesses and commercial property owners can take control of their businesses with ease and at an affordable cost, too. If you are looking for effective ways to increase your business security, there are several steps you can take and things you can try. The following article is for business owners and commercial property managers that are looking to increase or maintain their security. Consider which of the following suggestions will benefit your business, employees, and overall security the most.

Install Keyless Entry Locks

Traditional locks and keys are quickly becoming a thing of the past, especially for businesses and commercial properties. Regular keys are lost far too easily, can be misplaced and picked up by the wrong people, and are generally more of a hassle than they are a convenience. Most businesses now opt to have keyless entry locks instead. For businesses with lots of employees, keyless entry locks are the best option.

Keypad and combination devices are the most popular keyless entry locks that businesses use today. They allow individuals to simply enter a pin code to enter the building or a given room. A 4- or 5-digit number code is entered into the lock device and individuals can enter quickly and easily without a key. Cutting keys for each new employee that one hires can get expensive and may even be a wasteful endeavor if one experiences high employee turnover. Keyless entry locks eliminate the hassle and stress of needing to provide every staff member with a physical key.  

Change the Access Code Periodically

If you do decide to install keyless entry locks, the great news is that they can be reprogrammed with a new passcode at any time. Instead of having to rekey your locks as you might with traditional ones, with electronic locks, a simple reprogramming is all that is needed in order to make the lock run on a new code. This is especially convenient if disgruntled employees quit or are fired and employers want to make sure they cannot regain access to their business. The passcode can be changed in just a few moments, leaving the old code obsolete and your building secure once more.

Light the Interior and Exterior

Proper lighting is one of the most important security measures that any business should take seriously. Criminals lurk in the dark and can easily find solace there before ultimately breaking into your business or even attacking one of your staff members. Although no one likes to think of the worst-case scenario, the fact is, having dark areas around your building will automatically make your business a target.  

Lighting is affordable and an important investment, no matter what kind of business you run. Make sure to replace any burnt out bulbs immediately and attend to any fixtures that may be broken or need repair. The presence of a burnt-out bulb or broken light fixture could easily be the catalyst that sets off a chain of events, leading to a potential break-in. Be sure that you address any lighting issues right away and make it a priority to keep your building well-lit.

Communicate with Your Staff

If you are a business owner, communicating with your staff is the number one way you can prevent security breaches. Often times, issues such as break-ins and thefts occur due to negligence on the part of one or more individuals. If certain safety and security procedures are followed by all staff members at all times, then the likelihood that something may go wrong goes down significantly. Although not all emergencies can be prevented, good communication can help keep your staff on top of things and continue to take care of the security measures that are within their control.

Purchase a Safe

Every business should have a safe of some sort. Not all businesses will need a large, standing safe, but it is important to have a secure place to store cash, checks, receipts and other important items. A cash box, drop box, or other smaller lockbox may be a good option for businesses on a tight budget or for those that do not require a large safe on-site. Regardless of your business needs, make sure to purchase a secure safe of any size to use as storage for cash and other business assets.

Hire a Locksmith for an Inspection

If you have considered or tried all of the suggestions described above, but you are still concerned about your business security, it may be time to call a professional. Certified locksmiths often offer free consultations and price quotes to new customers, especially those that are not sure what adjustments or changes to their security are most pressing.  

Locksmiths are trained to inspect and address any potential problems that may arise. When you hire a locksmith to help with your commercial business security, you can trust that you will have the right guidance to make the right decisions. It is important for any business to have a locksmith they can turn to in emergencies and for other immediate needs. If you have not already established a working relationship with a local locksmith in your area, now is the perfect time.

Work with a Local Lock and Key Expert Today!

Mobile Locksmith Winnetka in Winnetka, Illinois is the top choice locksmith that business owners in the area can turn to when they need assistance increasing their business security. We can rekey your business locks, install electronic or access control locks, inspect your property for any potential security concerns, and everything in between. Contact our professional locksmiths in Winnetka today and we promise to address your commercial property security requests quickly and efficiently. We even offer residential, automotive, and emergency lock and key services 24-hours a day, seven days a week. You cannot go wrong when you choose to work with Mobile Locksmith Winnetka. Let us secure your home, vehicle, or business property today!

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CAR IGNITION TROUBLE

Most people who drive simply love driving because they are able to quickly get where they are going. However, whether you like to drive or not, driving certainly comes with its own issues. When the vehicle owner is not having routine maintenance, it is prone to experience even more issues. Owning a car can be a joy and a pain. When you stop paying insurance or stop making paying your car note, you will see just how serious owning a car actually is. To make matters even worse, consider the problems you may experience on the road. Your car might stall, run out of gas, or worse, you may experience a problem with your car’s ignition. This is a nightmare! It could be one impulsive act that causes this nightmare, such as snatching the key out of the ignition. This is truly, the last thing you should do when your vehicle is stuck in the ignition.

However, there are some circumstances where the key may be damage. While simply by looking at the key, it may appear to be fine. The problem could be that the key is slightly bent. Without knowing this, the person may place the key in the ignition and this is when the problem begins. You shouldn’t be too hard on yourself when this problem occurs because there is a right way and a wrong way to deal with this issue. At Mobile Locksmith Winnetka in Winnetka, IL we will give you the ability to effectively handle this situation.

Here is what you should DO when your key is stuck in the ignition.

When Your Car is Turned ON

Look at the dashboard – Look to be sure that the position that your vehicle is in is in the PARK position. If the vehicle is any other position, you will not be able to remove the key from the ignition.

Look at the gear – The vehicles gear should also be in the PARK position. Just glance to make sure that it is so that you are able to carefully remove the key from the ignition.

Loosening up the key – While the key is in the PARK position, slightly move it back and forth to loosen up the key in the ignition. While doing this, pull the key toward you, as it loosens up.

When Your Car is Turned OFF

Checking the Vehicle Battery – If you have a dead battery, you will not be able to remove the key from the ignition. When you contact one of our Winnetka locksmiths, upon arrival to your location, they will check your battery to see if this could be causing the problem. If it is, this is an easy fix. Just have your battery replaced or jumped.

Loosening Up the Key – Just like when the car is turned on, simply wiggle your key back and forth to see if it will loosen from the ignition. If it begins to loosen up, pull it toward you.  

Look at the Key Position – A car with an old cylinder, the key may enter the ignition incorrectly.

Now if any of the above suggestions work in helping you to safely remove your key from your vehicles ignition, this is great. However, if you have followed our above suggestions and still cannot remove the key from the ignition, please don’t hesitate our locksmith services at Mobile Locksmith Winnetka. One of our qualified locksmiths will make a thorough inspection of the vehicles ignition and the key to figure out what could be the cause of your problem. A locksmith will be able to solve the problem that you are experiencing without causing any further disturbance to the rest of your vehicle or without breaking the key off in the ignition. If this were to occur, this could be a huge disaster. This is one of the things that happens when someone acts too quickly and simply rips the key out of the ignition. If you are not comfortable following the suggestions above, it would certainly be in your best interest to give a locksmith a call to handle the matter for you. This would certainly help you avoid breaking the key off in the ignition and making the situation worse than it may already be.

Hire a Responsive Locksmith

If you ever experience the above problem, you will need help in hurry and you will be able to receive it from the right locksmith service. When looking for a locksmith to assist with your car ignition needs, make sure you look at the company’s reviews. You want to be sure that the locksmith service you depend on is responsive to your service requests. This is very important because this is often when the problem goes from bad to worse. Motorists become impatient while they are waiting for help to arrive. If you hire a locksmith that takes their time to respond to your service requests, you may overreact and snatch the key from the ignition. So take the time to make sure the locksmith you depend on is responsive.

When choosing the right locksmith, it is also a good idea to make sure you choose a locksmith service that offers 24-hour servicing. You never know when you might run into a problem with your ignition and having a 24-hour locksmith service on speed dial could really come in handy. You wouldn’t want to hire someone who is only available during the standard business hours because this may not be when you experience your ignition problem.

If you use a transponder key, make sure that the locksmith service you contact knows how to work with them to help remove it from the cars ignition. This is an expensive key and should be handled very carefully so that it is not damaged. Make sure you ask that before hiring them to assist you with your service needs. If they arrive and are not familiar with how transponder keys work, they will not be of much use to you.  

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Preventing a Lockout

It isn’t uncommon to experience a lockout situation at some point in your life. This is a common occurrence and we should know at Mobile Locksmith Winnetka because we are called on to help with this situation every day. This is just one of the many things that can frustrate almost anyone. It is such an unexpected thing that you can’t help getting upset when it happens to you. This often occurs at the most inconvenient time, when we are in a hurry. This is what makes the problem even worse. As long as our Winnetka, Illinois locksmith service is around, you don’t have anything to worry about. However, if this has happened to you one too many times, perhaps it will help you to find out what you can do to prevent this from happening to you.

Increase the Life of Your Locks

If you have good locks, you can prevent a lockout. Some of the pins may lock and this is when you’ll experience trouble with the key working. Spraying a silicone spray into the lock might resolve the problem. If you have tried this and the problem still exist, you can call on us to inspect the problem. If we notice any type of grinding with the locks, we’ll use a silicone-based lubricant. Treating your door with a lubricant several times a day will help prolong your locks.

Your keys can also be a problem. When you have very old keys that you have been using for years, this can cause a problem. If you use the same key several times a day, it might be necessary to replace the key. You might not even notice your keys are becoming old and worn until you are unable to get inside your home or car. Even then you might not consider that the problem is due to your key. If you don’t, you may never look at the key but only assume that the problem is due to the lock. Instead, keep this in mind the next time you are having trouble with your lock and find yourself locked out.

Be very careful when your key is stuck in the door. Do not jerk the key out and make the problem worse. When you jerk the key out you could strip the lock, causing more damage. Even worse, you could break the key off in the door. We advise you to slow down so that you can think logically. The most logical thing to do might be to simply contact a locksmith who will be able to safely remove the lock for you.

When called upon to get a broken key out of the door, they will use a flathead screwdriver to pry it out. If you do not have the skills to do this, it is better if you leave it to the trained professionals. They know exactly what is needed to handle the job. However, if you are determined to handle the problem on your own, we suggest you use a needle-nose plier, which will allow you to slowly remove the piece from inside the lock. Even after you are able to remove the part of the key that broke off in the lock, contact our services to make sure the lock isn’t damaged. If the lock is damaged, it should be replaced with a new lock. Don’t take any chances. Also, if you do not want to experience this problem again, it’s best to let one of our locksmiths evaluate the lock once the key piece as been removed.  

Have Spare Keys Made

This is one of the most practical ways to prevent being locked out for too long. Let’s face it. We all have experienced something that brings us a great deal of frustration. Being locked out is no exception. If you have a spare key made but can’t locate the person with the key, it is of no good to you. This is why we highly encourage you to have more than one spare key made to ensure that you can receive the help you need when you need it the most. A spare key should only be given to someone that you know and trust will be available to bring it to you when you need them.

Never Break Out a Window

The one thing we strongly discourage you from doing is breaking out a window in your home, business or car. This is something that will undoubtedly make the problem worse than it currently is. If someone is watching you they may attempt to do the same thing to gain access when you are not around and no one is looking. Breaking a window is not a solution to your lockout problem!

Never Be Locked Out Again

The best way to avoid being locked out again is to have a keyless lock installed at your home, car or business. This means that the key isn’t necessary, the only thing you’ll need is a code to enter into the keypad. The only time you’ll be locked out is if you have forgotten your key and on the rare occasion that there is something wrong with the wiring of your system. In this case, one of our qualified locksmiths can come to your aid and get you back inside your car by fixing any wiring issues they might find.

Routine Maintenance

Lock maintenance is important to making sure they are always in good working condition. When you have properly working locks, it minimizes your chances of being locked out. Over time locks become worn and dated. When this happens, they become less effective. Regular maintenance is sure to help you minimize the chances of this happening to you. It also saves you time and frustration when you are having routine maintenance performed on your locks. Just consider how much time you waste being stranded and the level of frustration associated with it and we’re sure you’ll see the benefits of routine lock maintenance.

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YOUR SAFE IS JAMMED; WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT!

Having a jammed-up safe can be frustrating. After all, why do you have your safe in the first place; to protect your valuable items! At no point however, did you plan on not having access to your prized possessions. Your safe is for your use; and you need fast access to its contents anytime you need or want it. At our shop, our Mobile Locksmith Winnetka technicians always encourage callers dealing with this issue is remain calm and follow a few simple steps to resolve the problem.

Safes are universal

Yes, safes are everywhere. TV shows and Hollywood like to portray safes as used by the rich and privileged. They actually are, but you can also find safes in middle class homes, government facilities, and business locations all over the world. Safes come in many models and materials. Some open with a dial, others with a key or a keypad. We even have biometric safes now; you can use fingerprint technology to access your safe!

Safes can sit right there in plain sight; or, they can be hidden in the wall behind a picture, built into the floor, or even under the stairs. Your safe is yours to flaunt or hide as you see fit and just like the variety of its contents, your safe is as versatile and individualized as you are. You can find safes most anywhere, including jewelry stores, fast food outlets, banks, grocery stores, schools, attorney offices, dental clinics, accounting firms, retail stores, hotels and thousands more!

Your safe won’t open; what do you do?

Relax and don’t panic. Safes doors get stuck once in a while. While it can be a frustrating experience, it’s not the end of the world and you really need to resist the urge to force or smash your way back inside. Being unable to access your safe can be annoying and frustrating but it can also reduce you to near panic status if the need to access cash or documents inside it is not met. Causing damage to your own safe is never a good idea and hiring an amateur to drill it or force it open will only result in a ruined or badly damaged safe and probable ruin to its contents, too.  

Wrong combination

First things first; did you forget your combination or enter the wrong one? Think for a minute; are you still using the original combination from when you first bought the safe? If so, you may be able to contact the safe manufacturer, and have them recover it for you. This isn’t always possible but just in case, have your safe’s serial number handy if they need it. If you have completely forgotten the number sequence or combination, you can use the services of a licensed, bonded and insured locksmith to reset it. If you live here in Winnetka, IL, you can always call us to help, but you are free to call anyone that offers authentic, certified locksmith service; preferably on a 24-hour basis.

But, I used the right combination and it still won’t open!

It happens! Sometimes even the right key code or number sequence won’t get your safe open. If this happens; try this easy trick and see if it works. It could be that the safe’s lever is stuck. Here’s an easy way to alleviate that. Spin the safe’s dial. Now go to the first number in the combination. Okay, now go the second number in the sequence.  So far; so good. Now, instead of going to the third number, go to number 8. Once you’ve done that, take a rubber hammer and hit the safe door a few times. Don’t go crazy and smash it, but do give it a few solid whacks. Don’t hit the dial – only the door! Now, go ahead and line up the third number and the rest; your safe should open. You can repeat this process a few times in case it doesn’t work the first time.

Does your safe’s dial seem hard to rotate?

Your safe has a re-locker mechanism built into it. Once in a while it gets activated, but there’s a simple way to over-ride it. Here’s what you do. Spin the dial as if you were lining up the first number. Apply force against the dial with your spinning hand at the same time. Now, have that rubber hammer ready. Give your safe door a couple of good whacks and see if that doesn’t make everything better.

No luck?

If your safe is still hard to open, it may be time to call in the pros. Be selective in your choice of safe experts. We recommend a full service locksmith shop and nothing less. Finding someone in the free classifieds or hiring your neighbor’s teen nephew to do the work usually results in disappointment or worse damage. It doesn’t matter if the locksmith you choose specializes in residential or commercial locksmith services, as long as they sell, service, install and maintain safes, you should be in good hands. Repairing a safe can be more involved than simply changing a door knob or replacing a peephole. Most shops offer free price quotes so be sure to give the technician, the make and model number of your safe in order to get an accurate repair estimate. We recommend getting at least two or three quotes before deciding on one. For a more accurate estimate, be sure and tell your locksmith all the symptoms that your safe is displaying.  

Digital safes

You can compare your digital safe to your car’s keyless entry system. If you enter the wrong number sequence, too many times, you will get locked out. There’s an automatic shutdown that is triggered when this happens. Your lockout time can be from a few hours to a day or so depending on your model. After this cooling off period, you should be able to access your safe, as before. Other things that can affect digital safes include power fluctuations, power outages, low batteries and shorts in the electronic circuitry.

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Mobile Locksmith Winnetka: Lock and Key Types

Locks and keys are much more diverse and complicated than most people think they are – similar to the locksmith profession itself. Most people’s knowledge of locks goes no further than the basic locks they have on their doors at home, and the keys on their cars. Technological advances have become widespread over the last few decades in a wide variety of areas, and the lock industry is no exception. The lock industry today contains many different types of locks, ranging from the most basic of door locks to intricately complicated electronic access systems.  

Mobile Locksmith Winnetka in Winnetka, Illinois, offers all sorts of residential and commercial lock systems, and uses only the finest brands to install them. They are available 24 hours a day for any of your security-related needs. Let’s take a closer look at some of your options in the lock department – not only at our specific company, but also in the industry as a whole. You are sure to be impressed at all that is available.  

Locks with Physical Keys

Warded Lock: This is what most often comes to mind when people think of a lock. It is also one of the oldest lock designs in the world. This type of lock contains a series of obstructions that correspond exactly to the key created for them. Thus, if the key does not match up, it will not be able to rotate freely inside the lock and unlock the door. These are most commonly used in areas with a lower need for security, such as homes in safe areas. These can often be opened by skeleton keys – keys that have been reduced only to their most essential parts, and thus can open a wide variety of locks. Because of this, warded locks should not be used in cases where high security is necessary.

Pin Tumbler Lock: Another lock with its roots in ancient history, this type goes back to Egypt in 4000 B.C. It has a similar basic principle to the warded lock, but with pins instead of obstructions. Unless the correct key is inserted, the lock will not open. Unlike the warded lock, the keys for these locks contain a series of grooves that don’t allow them to be inserted into every lock. When the correct key is inserted, the pins form a straight line, allowing the door to open. Pin tumbler locks are more secure than warded locks because a limited amount of keys are able to enter the lock’s cylinder – skeleton keys are not as effective.

Wafer Tumbler Lock – This is quite similar in form to the pin tumbler lock, but as its name suggests it uses wafers instead of pins. One key difference is that the pins in pin locks contain two or more pieces, while wafers consist of only a single piece.  The wafers fit into a cylinder and are spring-loaded for when a key is entered, which once again causes them to form a straight line and unlocks the door. Like the pin tumbler and warded locks, this is a fairly cheap lock to produce while also being quite effective. Wafer locks are not often seen in regular doors, but rather in car or cabinet doors.

Disc Tumbler Lock – This is also known as an Abloy lock, named after the company that popularized them. Disc tumbler locks consist of a series of discs, all with a differently sized section cut out of them. Unlike the pin and wafer locks, these are not spring-loaded, which means they are better suited for harsh conditions. Disc locks are considerably safer than other types. They are considered almost impossible to pick because picking the lock takes much longer and often requires professional tools. Because of this, they are often marketed and sold as “high-security” locks. This means they typically also cost a good amount more than the lower quality types; however, it is likely worth it if security is a high priority.

Locks with Electronic Keys

Electronic Lock – The most basic lock on the higher end electronic spectrum, electronic locks operate by means of an electric current. These are seen in a variety of ways; the most common include numeric passcodes and switches for apartment intercoms. However, they can also be as complicated as an access control system, such as those seen when entering restricted areas such as military compounds. In these cases, the key is either a password or another person who allows you access, meaning they are quite secure.  

Keycard Lock – This is a special type of electronic lock that can only be triggered by a specially configured keycard. If the physical or digital signature on the keycard matches the door’s electronic mechanism, the lock disengages and the card bearer is given access. These are also quite safe, but share a similar disadvantage with regular keys in that the key can be stolen and used for access by someone else.

Smart Lock – This is the newest and most technologically advanced lock that is commonly available. Smart locks are able to lock and unlock doors using cryptographic keys and a wireless signal, typically from an electronic device such as a smart phone. As smart phones continue to become even more prevalent, these types of locks are becoming increasingly popular in residential neighborhoods.  

In short, there is a wide range of different lock systems available to suit a variety of different needs and desires. The lock industry is a complicated field, and there are not necessarily right and wrong answers when it comes to choosing a lock for your home. Luckily, Mobile Locksmith Winnetka is there to help if you are in the local area. They have trained professionals available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help you in case you get locked out, or if you have any questions about home security. The lock industry can be quite complicated; luckily, you don’t have to figure it out on your own.  

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Top Security Tips for New Homeowners

Security is among the top three concerns for most homebuyers – with the others being location and price – but it is often forgotten in the upheaval and excitement of actually moving in.

It is important to ensure that you will feel safe from the outset, and that your newly relocated belongings will also be secure, says Shaun Rademeyer, CEO of BetterLife Home Loans.

The bond originator provides following security tips for new owners:

·        Change the locks. Before you move into your new place, replace all the existing exterior locks and make sure you have all the keys. You never know who the previous owners might have given a spare key to, so it’s best to start fresh.

·        Double check that all sliding doors and all windows fit well within their frames and have sturdy burglar bars or security gates. You may also want to fit additional anti-lift devices to sliding doors, and install additional safety chains and spyholes on solid doors.

·        If there’s an existing alarm system, be sure to get the instruction manual and emergency numbers from the previous homeowner, and immediately change the security codes and passwords. It is also a good idea to have the system checked regularly and change your passwords from time to time. If there is no system, have one installed before you move.

·        Make sure that your alarm system has an exterior siren to alert neighbours and passers-by if your alarm is triggered. Burglars are usually in and out in a few minutes and they know that the police or security companies can’t respond that fast if they trigger the alarm, but they don’t like the idea of there being other witnesses.

·        If your new home is already equipped with CCTV, check that the system is working. Alternatively, you should consider installing a camera security system linked to your smartphone before you move as these have proved to be a strong deterrent for burglars.

·        Double check the property’s vulnerability. Stand outside it and imagine how you would get in if you were locked out. The first thing you think of, whether it’s the garage door without a lock or the branch hanging over the wall, is exactly how a burglar will get in, and you should address it immediately.

·        Respect the power of light. Criminals don’t want to be seen, so add more exterior lights if necessary to make sure whole property is well-lit at night.

·        When you do start moving in, don’t leave any furniture or belongings in the front garden or on the pavement for all to see – and for burglars to start making their own inventory.

·        Introduce yourself and your family to your new neighbours as soon as possible and join the local neighbourhood watch if there is one. This will help you fit in to your new community, and make friends that will look out for you and your house as you look out for theirs.

·        Be sure to check your household insurance policy to see what it covers and what changes you might need to make because you have relocated. In addition, it is a good idea to mark your valuables by engraving them with your ID number. You should also keep a record of all their serial numbers and take photos of jewellery, watches and other special items like coins and artwork so that they can easily be identified if thieves try to pawn them or are caught with them.

·        Remain security conscious. Don’t leave any ladders, tools or equipment out in the garden as these could tempt opportunist thieves or help burglars gain access to your home . And don’t leave spare keys under plant pots, rocks or doormats.

Original Article Here: Top Security Tips for New Homeowners

Related Video Here: Home Security Tips for New Homeowners

Moving to a new house? Let the expert check if how safe your place is. Contact Mobile Locksmith Winnetka now.

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Jennifer's View: Residential Burglary can be prevented

This month’s crime prevention article will focus on a property crime that we often see an increase in around the summer months- residential burglary.

Burglary is defined by the Seattle Police Department as: when someone enters physical property, not his or her own, without permission, with the intent to commit a crime. Theft is defined as: whenever property is taken. For law enforcement there is a difference between burglary and theft and when you report a crime to 9-1-1 or to a Seattle Police Officer, the language you use makes a difference! The Seattle Police Department distinguishes between two types of burglary- residential and non-residential. Residential burglary refers to the theft occurring in a dwelling, other than a vehicle (such as a private home or apartment) and non-residential burglary refers to the theft occurring in a commercial or non-residential building (such as a grocery store or clothing store).

When it comes to helpful prevention techniques for residential burglary- there are a lot of important things to keep in mind. All exterior doors should be strong enough to withstand force and should be secured with a deadbolt lock that has a minimum one-inch throw. Try not to leave valuables (such as packages, electronics or cash) in plain sight through windows or doors. The main entrance door to a home/apartment should have a door wide-angle (180 degree) viewer/peephole. Make the home appear as if there is someone there by leaving lights, music and/or televisions on. Install motion sensor lights to be specifically directed and focused on entry points and vulnerable areas. Secure and lock all windows and doors when leaving the premises- even if you plan to return within a short amount of time! Do not leave a spare key out. Secure and maintain yard, patios and outdoor spaces- making sure you trim back all concealing shrubbery. Be consistent, and always stay vigilant and observant to what is going on around you.

Remember to always call 9-1-1 immediately to report suspicious behavior. If you see something- say something!

Another very important prevention technique for residential property crime is getting to know your neighbors and starting a Block Watch. Block Watch is one of the most effective crime prevention tools. Block Watch brings residents and law enforcement together to improve safety and prevent crime. Safety improves when neighbors watch out for each other by reporting suspicious activity and in progress crimes to 9-1-1. Crime prevention occurs when the opportunity for crime is removed and neighbors work together towards a safer neighborhood.

Original Article Here: Jennifer's View: Residential Burglary can be prevented

Related Video Here: Home Burglary Prevention Tips

Afraid of home burglary? Maybe it’s time now for you to invest with home security system! Contact Mobile Locksmith Winnetka now!

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CHOOSING A HIGH-SECURITY LOCK

A lock is the last line of defense to protect unattended valuables, so it should be taken seriously. It’s easy to believe the saying that “locks keep honest people honest” by creating a high barrier of entry and discouraging opportunistic criminals. While there’s truth to that statement, the physical security of the lock you buy does matter.

Not all locks are created equal — there’s a reason Fort Knox isn’t securing its gold with $10 locks from Walmart. We’ve previously addressed this subject when we showed that a MasterLock padlock can be opened by simply tapping it with a hard object. This goes to show that buying quality locks is important, since it can mean the difference between a skilled criminal bypassing it in seconds or risking capture as he struggles with its complex mechanism.

YouTube lock expert BosnianBill summarizes how to choose a high-security lock in the video below. Here are some of the key factors he recommends considering:

Number of pins — a 7-pin lock is much harder to pick than a 4-pin lock.

Pin style — Serrated or dimple pins can throw off criminals who are unfamiliar with these less common mechanisms.

Body — Solid steel is preferable to the stacked-washer style or brass bodies used on cheaper locks.

Shackle — Thick shackle, preferably with rounded ball bearing detent and shielding around the base.

Replaceable cores — If one of your keys is lost or stolen, you can easily swap the lock core for a different key without replacing the entire lock.

Uncommon features — Rotating discs and reactive keys can make even the most advanced criminals give up on picking your lock.

Price — Consider the value of the item you’re securing. A more valuable item may necessitate a more expensive lock.

Original Article Here: CHOOSING A HIGH-SECURITY LOCK

Related Video Here: (405) Choosing a High Security Lock

When choosing a high security lock for your home or business, you can ask some suggestions coming from locksmith experts Mobile Locksmith Winnetka.

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How to find a Locksmith in an Emergency?

Imagine a situation that you are locked outside your home and you can’t find the home keys. It can be same if you lock your car without checking the keys. These incidents are really frustrating and annoying. If such thing happens at a time you rush to another work, the situation can be terrible and stressful!

So, how do you behave on such emergency? It is a situation that you never planned or never thought of! Let me explain few tips to avoid such situations or behave cool in such emergency!

How to find a Locksmith in an Emergency?

Keep extra keys with you

It is wise to keep an extra set of keys with you. If it is your car, keep one set of car keys in your home. Similarly you can also keep another set of home keys in a secure place of your bag or car. Each family member can keep one set of keys, so you have an option to open the home in a lockout.

Keep contact details of a local locksmith

A locksmith will help you to open the doors. But, in an emergency it may be difficult to find a locksmith. Preparing for such emergency before it happens is always wise. Find a local locksmith in your area and keep his contact details on your purse. These details will be really helpful for you in any emergency lockout! Local locksmiths in Charlotte NC such as Auto Key Masters are reliable, professional and they also offer 24 Hour Service for affordable rates. You can consider such company and keep the contact to make your emergency a less stressful one!

Find a locksmith who offers services 24 hours

Well, we can’t predict the time for any unexpected thing .It is same with a lockout too. But, think of an emergency where you are locked out at midnight! So, try to find a locksmith services who offers their service 24 hours. You locksmith also should have easy communication facilities such as phone calls and phone booking.

Hope these tips are helpful for you to face any emergency lockout!

Original Source here: How to find a Locksmith in an Emergency?

Related Article Here: Tips on How to Find Good Locksmiths

Mobile Locksmith Winnetka is one of the most reliable and reputable locksmiths in town now! Call them for your locksmith needs!

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Tech Tips: Electromagnetic Locking Devices

This installment of TechTips will discuss some details concerning electromagnetic locking devices; we will cover design of the control circuits and remote control stations in a future installment.

An important aspect of specifying and installing electromagnetic locks is knowing when an electromagnetic lock is appropriate to use. Because the perception is that an electromagnetic lock is easy to install, end-users and dealers may be inclined to use them even if they are not the best choice for a door.

Remember that electromagnetic lock deployments are subject to close scrutiny by AHJs, and AHJs decisions vary, so we have no way of predicting how an AHJ will rule on your particular situation.

When electromagnetic locks were first introduced, the options available for electrically controlling openings were far more limited than they are now.

Additionally the applications for electrical door control were more limited due to expense, the perceived security risks in our culture, and the market’s knowledge and understanding of the potential uses for electric locking and the benefits which could be enjoyed.

While the types of electric locking devices available have greatly increased, the cost of hardware has gone down, the threat level has increased, and the ways in which electric locking systems can used continue to expand.

So while access control is the fastest growing industry category according to many studies, electromagnetic locks are not the fastest growing type of electric locking solution.

Original Article Here: Tech Tips: Electromagnetic Locking Devices

Related Article Here: Everything You Need To Know About Magnetic Locks

If you are looking for a high tech home security solution, don’t hesitate to call Mobile Locksmith Winnetka anytime you need.

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Handy Advice And Tips To Hire A Great Locksmith

The job of locksmithing isn’t something we’re all too much about. Learn everything necessary about locksmiths from this piece. Now you know what to do when you need a locksmith.

If you are painting, it is important to cover your locks before you begin. If you fill the hole with paint, you’ll have to hire a locksmith to fix it. It may take a bit of time to cover all the locks, but that pales in comparison to the time a locksmith will take to change all of the locks.

TIP! Be wary of a locksmith that quotes one price and then raises it once he arrives. Some companies want to take too much money from you, so they will scam you.

Cover your locks before you begin painting. It may take a bit of time to cover all the locks, but it isn’t nearly as long as it would take to get those locks changed by a locksmith.

You should always know who to call if you don’t really think a locksmith is necessary. Research before you need one and find someone that you can be contacted for emergencies. Put a locksmith’s contact number of the locksmith into your cell phone so it is always available to you.

You should prepare yourself even if you don’t really think a locksmith is necessary. Find a qualified professional who will be there in an emergency situation. Save your locksmith’s phone number in your phone just so that you always have it.

Check the BBB to make sure your chosen locksmith is truly reputable. This can let you the information you need for your peace of mind.

Look for locksmiths who are active in the professional community of locksmiths. It helps to ensure that you have a true professional working on the latest industry trends. It also assures you that you for all you’ve got!

It is possible to get around additional costs by using a locksmith only during regular business hours. This will help you to reduce the cost that you pay. For example, finding yourself locked outside of your car during business hours may cost $50 or so, but after hours this can easily double.

TIP! If you get a certain quote over the phone but it goes up once the locksmith gets on site, let them know you will look for help elsewhere. There are many locksmiths you can do business with, and you don’t need to use one you can’t trust.

Get references and recommendations before you allow a locksmith in your home. Call all of the references before hiring them. You surely want the best quality services and a person that you can completely trust.

Original Article Here: Handy Advice And Tips To Hire A Great Locksmith

Related Video Here: How To Hire A Locksmith

Residents in Winnetka, IL is trusting Mobile Locksmith Winnetka for their locksmith needs! Call them anytime!

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Residential Locksmith Tips

"When do I need to rekey my home?"

You need to rekey your locks whenever you buy a home.  It does not matter whether your home is new or used.  Other people have had posession of your key and you do not know how many keys are floating around.  After I bought my first home, the owner came back and let himself in to check if he had left anything in the house. If you have teenagers and they have keys, rest assured that there is good chance they have given a copy to a friend.  If you do not want to give your kids keys, you can install a Kaba Simplex deadbolt on the rear door. Your child can enter a code and let himself in. The code can be changed easily if the code is given out.

"Why do I have to 'jiggle' my keys in order to get the lock to work?"

Your key does not work properly because you are using a poor copy or a copy that has been made from a copy. No key machine copies perfectly. As a key moves farther away from the original, the less accurate it becomes. It could also be that your key tumblers have been worn down. Solution:  Find the original factory key and make copies from it.  If you cannot find one, you may need to rekey the lock. Always ask your locksmith for a "factory original" when he rekeys..

"Why does my door bounce off the strike plate when I try to shut the door?"

The latch is dry and needs a shot of WD-40.  If this does not work, the latch is broken.

"Should I rekey my locks or replace them?"

If your locks are in good working condition and the finish is still attractive, you can have them rekeyed. However, in order to have them rekeyed and work on the same key, make sure one key will atleast go into every lock. You cannot kay all of your locks alike if you have two or three incompatible brands. In many cases, homes have nice Schlage front door hardware and Kwikset or Callin locks everywhere else. Since nobody uses the front door for entry, you can leave this door on its own key, seperate from the rest.

"Why will my key not go into the lock?"

On residential doors that are used seldom, oil becomes glue! Use WD-40 and work the key in and out. If this does not solve the problem, rekey or replace.  On commerical doors, you may have a foreign object in the lock. Restaurants get toothpicks, clothing stores get straight pins. On commercial front doors, sometimes vandals use screwdrivers or knives on the locks and the keyway is marred, blocking the key. Also, many people use their keys to pry open paint cans and open packages. If the key is bent, it may not enter the lock. Try another key. If it does not enter the lock, call a locksmith to extract the debris or replace the lock. I wouldn't recommend disassembling your lock.

"How can I tell if someone is getting into my home without a key?"

Look at the the door where the lock LATCH comes out. Now, look at the paint on the door nearest the latch. Is it scraped off? Or the door wood/metal dented? Now, look at the strike plate on the jamb opposite the lock. Is the weather strip gouged, cut? Is the paint scratched? If so, you are having visitors. Install and use deadbolts. Lock latches are easily pushed back and are not safe when used alone. You can also install a latch protector which you can buy at Lowe's or Home Depot. But do note that the look of your door may be affected.

"Is my sliding glass door safe? How can I better secure it?"

Your sliding glass door is a security disaster. You can buy a device at Home Depot or Lowe's that mounts to the metal frame. Ask your locksmith to install this. You can also have a pin installed that is inserted when the doors are shut. Or, you can get a large round dowel, paint it to match your decor, and lay it in the door tracks.

"How can I make my home less of a burglary target?"

First, install deadbolts. Second, get a dog or make it look like you have a dog by putting a dogfood bowl by your most vulnerable entries.  Third, get an alarm system and use window stickers that indicate you have an alarm.

To continue reading, just click Residential Locksmith Tips

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10 Surprising Home Burglary Stats and Facts

A burglary takes place about every eighteen seconds in the United States. That adds up to nearly 200 per hour, and approximately 4,800 every day. These are startling statistics, but they highlight the fact that burglary is a crime you need to be aware of. The good news is, the more you learn about burglary, the more effectively you can help protect your home and family.

Here are ten surprising facts about burglary—and preventative tips—everyone concerned about home security should know.

1. Burglars tend to avoid homes with security systems.

Based on a report by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, about 60% of convicted burglars stated the presence of a security system influenced their decision to target another home.

Preventative Tip: Get a monitored home security system to help reduce the chance of being a burglary victim. Use the yard signs and window stickers you’re provided with to alert potential intruders to your security system. Make sure the signs and stickers are visible from every approach to your home—not just the front entrance.

2. Most burglaries take place between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Contrary to popular belief, the majority of home burglaries take place during daylight hours, not at night. That’s because most people are at work or school—which reduces the chance the burglar will be noticed.

Preventative Tip: Install indoor and outdoor motion-activated home security cameras so you can check on your home throughout the day. Plus, you’ll receive an alert if the camera detects motion, so you can evaluate the situation immediately.

3. The majority of break-ins are committed by burglars who live nearby.

The typical burglar resides within two miles of the target home. Because they live close, it’s easy for them to learn your family’s daily schedule and strike when they know you’re not home. They may also check for signs that you’re on vacation—such as flyers or newspapers piling up at your door, an un-mowed lawn, or trash cans left at the curb.

Preventative Tip: To help minimize the risk of a burglary, vary your routine as much as possible and have someone take care of your home when you’re out of town.

4. Most criminals can burglarize a home in less than ten minutes.

Burglars look for homes that are easy targets. That’s why it doesn’t take long for most intruders to break into a house, get what they want, and take off before being noticed.

Preventative Tip: Strengthen your home’s defense by getting a home security system, keeping all entrances closed and locked, and installing a high-quality front door. Then go a step further: join, or form, a neighborhood watch group and use a crime mapping website to keep up-to-date on local crime trends.

To continue reading, visit 10 Surprising Home Burglary Stats and Facts.

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UNFREEZE A CAR DOOR: HOT TIPS AND TRICKS

Ever tried to open your car door on a frosty winter morning only to discover it’s been frozen shut? You might have panicked, frantically pulling at the door handle, but to no avail. Besides waiting for the ice to thaw, what can you to do unlock a frozen car door? We’ll give you some prevention tips and well as tricks for de-icing your car door quickly.

 Ice on your car? These tips will help you melt it in no time.

This is all of us in the winter months.

 Preventing a frozen car door lock or handle is simple. Keep your car out of the cold! If you don’t have access to a garage, put a cover over your car to protect it from the elements. If you have neither a garage nor a cover, you can try this life hack for preventing a frozen car lock:

 Rub alcohol, hand sanitizer or petroleum jelly on your car key, then stick the key in the ignition and jiggle it around a bit. If you use the jelly, be sure to wipe your car keys off afterward! A substance like rubbing alcohol or Vaseline can help prevent frozen car door locks. Who knew?

 The number one tip for dealing with ice on your car? Keep your car out of the cold!

Well that chunk of ice came off nicely.

 How do you melt the ice off your car door handle in a jiff? There are several methods you can try, though some reportedly work better than others.

 Tip #1: Use an Ice Scraper

 If it’s only your handle that is frozen, and not the door seal or door lock, you should be able to use an ice scraper. If you don’t have an ice chipper, you can use a similar plastic object, like a credit card.

 Tip #2: Pour on Water

 Fill a pitcher with lukewarm water and pour it over your frozen door lock or door frame. Be sure not to use hot water, which can actually break your windshield because of the temperature difference.

 Tip #3: Blow With a Hair Dryer

 Hair dryers aren’t just for creating the perfect holiday party ’do this season, they’re also for de-icing the driver door! If you have a blow dryer that doesn’t need an electrical outlet or own an outdoor extension cord, you can use your favorite beauty appliance to help melt the ice on your car. If it’s a frozen lock that need thawing, some people suggest placing a toilet paper tube between the dryer and lock to help funnel the air.

 You can try using a cordless hair dryer to unfreeze a frozen car lock

Blow dryers: Not just for grooming small dogs

Tip #4: Buy a Lock De-Icer

 There are several lubricants on the market meant to help melt the ice on your car. You can buy a spray lubricant, like a de-icer spray or lock de-icer, at most auto shops and big box stores.

 When cold weather hits during the winter months, you can be sure to expect some ice on your car. But now that you know how to unfreeze a car door or lock, you’ll be totally prepared! Be safe out there, drivers.

 Credits to: UNFREEZE A CAR DOOR: HOT TIPS AND TRICKS

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WINNETKA EMERGENCY LOCKSMITH

Are you in need of an emergency locksmith in Winnetka? You might have gone out for the mail and locked the house door behind you by accident. Or, maybe your toddler dropped your ignition keys in the gutter by mistake! There are hundreds of possibilities but one thing you must do; call Mobile Locksmith Winnetka for help. We offer licensed, bonded and insured emergency professionals to you on a 24-hour basis and at truly affordable rates so don’t think twice about it; call us now!

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Q: How long should I wait before calling another locksmith?

A: When you call Mobile Locksmith Winnetka you never have to worry about response times or calling anyone else. Our live response operators dispatch a fully certified emergency locksmith to your location as soon as you call us. All you have to do is give us directions and wait for professional help!

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No matter what your locksmith emergency happens to be; our responsive and skilled Mobile Locksmith Winnetka experts can help! We offer:

·        Home door unlocking

·        Rekey service

·        Auto, business and home emergencies

·        Panic bar service

·        Security upgrades

·        Broken off keys removed

·        Full service alarms

·        24/7 emergency service

·        Lock change outs

·        Lock replacements

·        Stuck key removal

·        High security locks

·        Lock installation

·        Exit device repairs

·        Free price quotes!

·        Ignition cylinder repair

·        Safe opening

·        Mobile 24-hour emergency locksmiths

·        Combination changing

·        Commercial lockouts

·        Residential keys

·        And many more!

Be sure to add our Mobile Locksmith Winnetka number to your phone and tablet for handy access anytime needed!

Call Today: [phone]

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WINNETKA COMMERCIAL LOCKSMITH

If you operate an Winnetka, IL business and want the best commercial locksmith service in town then place a call to Mobile Locksmith Winnetka and we’ll take care of everything. Our service is both highly professional and very affordable. In fact, many of the upgrades and additions that we do for can be tax deductible! Simply call our shop and tell us about your company. From jewelry stores to office rentals, our licensed, bonded and insured commercial locksmiths know best how to better protect your property. Call for more information and for some free price quotes. You’ll love what you hear; guaranteed!

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Just what kinds of businesses can benefit from quality commercial locksmith service? All kinds can! Mobile Locksmith Winnetka can help:

·        Clothing stores

·        Grocery outlets

·        Home cleaning services

·        Law offices

·        Realtors

·        Construction sites

·        Gas stations

·        Tour buses

·        Apartment buildings

·        Insurance agents

·        Warehouses

·        Storage facilities

·        Car dealerships

·        Restaurants

·        Retail shops

·        Lumber companies

·        And hundreds more!

Don’t see your category on the list? Just call Mobile Locksmith Winnetka and we’ll expertly service your company, too!

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Call on Mobile Locksmith Winnetka for services that include:

·        Panic bars

·        Fingerprint locks

·        Commercial locks

·        Business keys

·        24/7 emergency service

·        Biometric entry systems

·        Cylinder locks

·        Access control

·        Free price quotes!

·        Peephole installation

·        Rekey service

·        Keypad devices

·        Mortise locks

·        File cabinet rekeys

·        Commercial lockouts

·        High security locksets

·        Mobile 24-hour commercial locksmiths

·        Combination changing

·        Safe opening

·        Commercial lockouts

·        And many more!

Call today and let Mobile Locksmith Winnetka help protect your commercial investment!

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WINNETKA RESIDENTIAL LOCKSMITH

No one services home locks like Mobile Locksmith Winnetka. We provide unequalled quality mixed with round the clock convenience and affordable prices to make a home lock and key service that can’t be beat! Call us for all of your residential locksmith needs from small to large. We can rekey locks, open doors, make keys, upgrade locks, do master key conversions, add a peephole, remove broken off keys, repair locks, secure your mailbox, guard your pool and lots more! Our Winnetka locksmiths offer fast service, free price quotes and responsive, 24-hour emergency help so call us now to find out more!

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Only Mobile Locksmith Winnetka offers all this:

·        Convenient mobile service

·        24-hour lockout help

·        Affordable rates

·        No hidden fees or changing rates

·        Licensed, bonded and insured locksmiths

·        Live answer telephone dispatchers

·        24/7 emergency service

·        Fast response times

·        State of the art home lock and key hardware

·        Free consultations

·        Free price quotes!

Call Now: [phone]

For the best in residential lock and key expertise, call the family owned shop of Mobile Locksmith Winnetka. We offer:

·        Home door unlocking

·        Free consultations

·        Intercom systems

·        Door knob installation

·        24/7 emergency service

·        Real estate evictions

·        Video surveillance

·        High security locks

·        Free price quotes!

·        Security upgrades

·        Fence locks

·        Full service alarms

·        Bump proof locks

·        Patio door locks

·        Deadbolts installation

·        Garage door locks

·        Break-in repairs

·        Decorative locks

·        Mobile 24-hour residential locksmiths

·        Peepholes

·        Rekey service

·        Lock installations

·        Mailbox locks

·        And many more!

Secure your home and ground with professional, always affordable lock and key assistance form Mobile Locksmith Winnetka!

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