HAVING A SAFE AT YOUR HOME IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOU THINK

Better Safe than Sorry!

Businesses, banks, and billionaires have safes. But why should regular folks like us get one? If you are living in a neighborhood you feel comfortable in, you likely are thinking a safe isn’t needed. On the other hand, if you’re in an area you’re doubtful about, you may be at least a little bit curious about what type of safe you ought to buy. You might still be wondering: What would I ever keep in a safe, anyway? There are actually a good number of reasons to purchase a home safe ~ and some you may not have thought about before.

Do your homework. Carry out your own in-depth research so you will be able to choose the ideal safe for your particular place of residence. Consider the following:

• What’s the most secure location in your home to put your safe?
• How large does your safe have to be?
• Are there any unusual factors regarding properly protecting your specific items ~ such as humidity, temperature, light, and so on?
• Which individuals will you trust enough to know how to open your safe?
• What company will you be able to contact should you ever get into technical problems?
• Should your safe be visible or hidden?
• Industry guidelines indicate the security rating for every safe manufacturer. What level of security is required for your situation? Would you like to have a standard combination lock, or something more sophisticated, such as an eye scan, and/or other features in between? What about a plain metal box? Or, what about something that’s significantly anchored?
• Get acquainted with industry standards when it comes to water-resistance and fire-resistance levels.
• Formulate a backup plan, in case someone misplaces the information you need for opening your safe?

Almost everybody owns valuables of some sort ~ treasured heirlooms, collectibles, and crucial documents. Why risk losing or misplacing them? Let’s consider the following:

Thwart theft. A safe will stop a burglar from taking your much-loved possessions. Protecting your valued items inside a safe will allow you peace of mind. Do you often give parties? Do you enjoy entertaining house guests? When folks visit, you cannot keep an eye on everybody. It’s a comfort to know that your irreplaceable items remain unscathed inside the safe.

Protect against floods. In case of flooding, or should any kind of water-related disaster occur, if you have the right safe, then anything in it will stay intact.

Guard against fire. In case of fire, a high-quality safe will protect whatever is inside from destruction. Think about what would happen if you lost the following vital items to fire?

• passports
• mortgage records
• documents regarding any properties you own
• birth certificates
• your will
• safe deposit box keys or other significant keys that you rarely use
• emergency cash
• rare stamps or coins
• bank account information
• tax records
• outstanding loans and other debt records
• insurance papers for filing a possible claim
• prescription medication and pharmacy information
• copies of your driver’s licenses or other ID cards and papers
• powers of attorney, living wills, & healthcare proxies
• retirement plans
• investment documents
• titles to your vehicles
• a list of family doctors with their contact information
• funeral arrangements

Restore computer data. As every computer owner knows, you must always make backups of your computer files. Moreover, if you store all your computer data in your safe also, should you ever encounter computer glitches, your files will be fully retrievable. If your computer ever suffers a complete hard-drive crash, you’ll still be able to restore everything.

Preserve your family photos. Store digital copies of all of your treasured family photographs in your safe, and also keep the older family photos there. Such photographic memories are irreplaceable otherwise.

Make sure your loved ones are out of harm’s way. If you have any weapons, then it’s absolutely imperative that you prevent them from falling into the wrong hands ~ a child, a babysitter, a visitor, an intruder. Take every step you can to avoid danger and tragedy! Buy a gun safe so no one but you will ever gain access to your guns, explosives, axes, knives, or any other harmful items.

You’ll always know where your stuff is. If you’re constantly losing your things, when you decide to keep your vital items inside a safe, you won’t ever misplace them again.

A safe is essentially better than a safety deposit box. You may assume that a safety deposit box at your bank is superior to keeping a safe at home. But the fact is, a home safe offers you several significant advantages:

• Your home is a private space, not a public area, like a bank. You have direct access to your items.
• Believe it or not, as a rule, at a bank, a safe deposit box’s contents are not insured. If you have a home safe, on the other hand, the items inside will indeed generally be covered by your renter’s or homeowner’s or insurance policy.
• You can open your safe 24/7, instead of only during office hours.
• You make only a one-time investment, rather than pay a monthly fee.
• Any emergency cash stored in a safety deposit box is not FDIC-insured.
• Upon the death of a loved one, if you’re the beneficiary, you may assume that you can open that person’s safe deposit box; but the truth is, a bank customarily seals a safety deposit box upon receipt of the death certificate, which means you won’t be allowed to open it until the estate representatives supply the proper court papers to the bank.

Without a doubt, a home safe provides endless benefits. Safes are available in many different brands, types, and sizes. If you have any concerns regarding which safe is best for you, and you are in Miramar, Florida, consider bringing your questions to a professional safe technician on staff at Locksmith Miramar, where free consultations are available.

Aricle source here: HAVING A SAFE AT YOUR HOME IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOU THINK

What To Do, Ignition Cylinder Problems

Everyone wants to be able to trust that their cars aren’t going to fail in the course of their day. A malfunctioning ignition could cause you a lot of issues, from getting a key jammed in the cylinder to more serious problems related to operating your vehicle.

That’s why we’re going to focus on how to take care of any ignition matters that may arise. Keep reading as our experts chime in with their recommendations.

Keep an eye on these common issues

When trying to identify the best course of action, you should consider the different ignition cylinder problems that you might come face to face with:

Your key keeps getting stuck inside 

This is a very common complaint for car owners all over the world. Wear and tear are the main reasons for a key becoming more difficult to insert or remove. Sometimes, it may be the car key that is in need of replacement, but more frequently the ignition cylinder is the one to blame. The stress endured by an ignition cylinder over time will cause its insides to become less malleable – eventually, it will start binding your key in place, ultimately rendering you unable to fit it into the keyhole altogether.

Sometimes, your key may get lodged into the cylinder simply because the wheel is still in lock position. See if moving your steering wheel side to side releases the key – if not, you might need to call an auto locksmith in Miramar to extract it for you.

Otherwise, check your ignition and your key for signs of wear or damage and get whichever component is the cause of your issues replaced immediately.

The engine fails while you’re driving

A worn out ignition switch can be the reason for engine failure. Corrosion inside the cylinder can cause low contact or loss of voltage. That in turn can lead to the engine misfiring, stumbling or cutting out completely. If this starts happening to you, get in touch with a locksmith right away – they’ll be able to provide you with the right fixes.

It’s also worthy to note that, while you can’t prevent your ignition’s wearing process, there are some ways to slow down its progression. Avoid putting a lot of stress on the cylinder: for instance, don’t keep your keys on bulky keyrings that will weigh everything down.

You’re having difficulties powering on your vehicle

This is quite common when your ignition cylinder is damaged. Once again, wearing and age will be to blame: your key won’t be able to respond to certain positions, and you’ll eventually lose the ability to power it on altogether. But once again, don’t discount the possibility of other problems – if you have a transponder system, for example, it could be that your car key needs to be reprogrammed to transmit the right signals. It is best to ask the advice of your auto locksmith on this one, as they’ll be able to tell you exactly what’s causing your glitches.

The car won’t start, period

This can signal various issues, like a faulty sensor, a dying battery, or malfunctioning ignition. Again, an inspection is the best way to find out where the problem lies – if it is the ignition cylinder that’s rendering you unable to power on a vehicle, it will need to get replaced.

You can hear the engine running but the car won’t budge

A glitch in your car’s anti-theft protection system is more likely to cause this, but a faulty ignition can do it too. If your ignition is turned, the engine is cranking, and you can see a light flashing on your theft protection device, your key needs to be reprogrammed. Keep in mind that a fuel facing system can lead to similar issues – the diagnosis will be tricky to do without proper knowledge or training, so you’ll need to find a locksmith to look into your issues.

You might have noticed a common theme along our recommendations. This brings us nicely into our final point.

Hiring a locksmith to take care of your ignition cylinder problems

A reliable lock and key expert in your area will bring you full peace of mind over all kinds of automotive issues. They will have all the tools and equipment to repair or replace any faulty components, and will do this much more affordably than your local dealership.

Just remember, not all locksmiths specialize in automotive services. It’s always good to inquire with a couple of locally-based businesses to find out if they provide the solutions you are looking for. We recommend that you ask around to find some credible professionals – word of mouth is still the best way to identify whether a locksmith is trustworthy. Otherwise, check online reviews, look through your Better Business Bureau for any filed complaints, and ask the locksmith to provide you with a list of client references. Also request details about license and insurance, and get a full price quote for all services (including minimum callout charges and after-hours rates).

A few things to be wary about. Don’t hire any business you can’t trace a physical address to, has no contact details listed, or refuses to give a full company name upon request (you should ask this of people who answer the phone using a generic sentence). Partial deposits are a standard request, but upfront payments are not legitimate procedures. Also be on guard if a locksmith requests cash payments and changes their price quotes on arrival.

Locksmith Miramar is always available to help car owners in Miramar, FL. Our licensed and insured professionals know the ins and outs of all things automotive, including ignition cylinder repairs or replacements. You’re welcome to call us to schedule a free consultation, or talk to us over the phone to find out more about our solutions.

No matter where you live, researching a few auto locksmith companies in your area will ensure your ignition problems are addressed accordingly. Make sure to look out for the most common signs of damage, and ask a licensed specialist to look into things as soon as you experience an issue.

Aricle source here: What To Do, Ignition Cylinder Problems

Why Have Home Locks Changed

If you are moving into a new home it would be a mistake for you not to change the locks. There is so much to think about when you’re moving into another home. The last thing you want to worry about is someone breaking into your home. If you think that you’re living in a safe neighborhood, you might have a false sense of security. Your home can be broken into know matter where it is located. It is usually within the first 12 months of your occupying a new home that you often experience a break-in. A new homeowner is three times more likely to experience a home intrusion than someone who’s lived in their home for at least 10 years. Now that you know this, what are you going to do to protect your home and loved ones. We feel that this alone is compelling enough reason to change your homes locks.

Reasons for Changing Locks

• Keep out anyone who may have had a key

This is very important because you never know when someone may come back who has a key. When you have had contractors in your home and you had to give them keys, it is always a good idea to change the locks. If a previous family member has a key and you no longer want them to have access inside your home, you’ll have to change the locks to keep them from getting inside. It is better to be safe than sorry, so rather than taking chances, change the locks and avoid an unpleasant situation.

• Unpaid Claims

If someone should happen to break into your home, the insurance company may want to exam the locks of your home. If it has been discovered that you moved into your home and never had the locks changed, they may not feel obliged to pay your claim. This is another good reason to make sure you change the locks of your new home before you you move in.

• Poor Locks

The locks that you may want to replace the existing locks with may not be the best quality of locks that you can have. You could always contact a reputable locksmith in Miramar, FL. Poor locks are a sure way for you to experience a break-in. Burglars like the route of least resistance. Therefore, you’re making it very easy for them to break into your home when you have weak locks.

• Lack of Locks

When you don’t have enough locks, it means it’s easy for someone to break-in. Make sure you have locks in all of the key areas of your home. In some cases, you may need deadbolt locks on some of your doors. In fact, we always encourage homeowners to have deadbolt locks installed on all exterior doors. This helps to maximize the level of security you have for you home.

• Non-industry Standard Locks

A lock that is not an industry standard lock will not be of much use to you. The existing locks may not have the best locks and could pose a threat to your safety and security. In order to make sure they are durable and resistant to the pressure applied to them by a would-be intruder, you should change the locks. All locks should be industry standard.

Equipped with the aforementioned information, you may now see why it is necessary to change the locks of your home. In order to achieve maximum security, you should have your locks changed before you move into your new home. You should take it a step further and check the level of security that you have for your home. This includes evaluating the locks of doors and windows. A locksmith will discuss where new locks are needed the most and where you may need brand new locks installed. All of the information that a Miramar locksmith would offer to you will prove very beneficial. No one knows better than a locksmith, the must susceptible areas of your home. There are some types of locks that should be avoided, which can hinder the movement of our family. This isn’t a good idea in cases of emergency. You should know exactly which locks to install and the ones to avoid.

In addition to changing your locks, it is also a great idea to consider having an alarm system installed, external sensors installed around the exterior of your home ad deadbolt locks wherever needed. If you keep an existing alarm system, you’ll have to make sure hat all of the codes are changed. We would actually suggest that you change the code to your alarm system as often as possible.

If you lose track of who has spare key to your home, you could be putting your safety in jeopardy. Make sure that you change the locks as soon as this has been discovered. You may have gone out of town or had a family emergency, which meant that you had to leave a key with a neighbor. Even if you trust the neighbor, you may not know everyone that they know. This means that your keys could fall in the hands of the wrong person. As soon as you return home, make sure the locks of your home are changed to avoid an incident from occurring.

We do not wish to see anyone harmed or burglarized and this is why we willingly offer these suggestions to you. It is up to each individual household to determine how they will go about protecting their loved ones and the things that are of value to them. We think that simply by changing the locks, this affords you an affordable and practical way to secure your home. You can find locks in various price points and can get the help that you need in determining the types of locks that are best for your home. Don’t take unnecessary chances with the safety and security of your home. Change the locks right away.

Aricle source here: Why Have Home Locks Changed

SYMPTOMS OF CAR IGNITION ISSUES

When we grab our keys and jump into our cars to go somewhere, the last thing we expect is to have ignition cylinder problems. As drivers, we know from an early age that you insert the key, turn it, and the engine starts. Unless we are just going for a Sunday drive, we have a destination in mind. It may be a simple errand to pick up cat litter, or it might be more important, like a job interview or a date (gasp!). We expect our ignitions to work and work on-demand. Unfortunately, this won’t always happen. That’s why Locksmith Miramar has put this post together; so that you know more about car ignition issues and how better to deal with them.

Auto ignitions; the basics

We all know that starting the ignition, starts the car. What you may not know, is how it does that. In the early days of driving, the ignition simply supplied the engine with electrical current from the battery. Nowadays, an accessory switch is used to also supply power to other components of your car. These can include air conditioning, radio, power seats, heater, power windows, GPS, windshield wipers, headlights, etc. You can see how vital your car’s ignition system really is; it expertly powers over a dozen essential components of your vehicle so that your driving experience is safer, more convenient and enjoyable!

Signs that your ignition system is experiencing problems

Auto health is much like human health; all parts seem to be interconnected and able to affect each other on an ongoing basis. Both show symptoms when something isn’t working right and this can often be confusing if you are not a mechanic or car enthusiast. Here in Miramar, FL we experience very hot summers and high humidity and sometimes these temperature fluctuations can have an impact on how our vehicles drive and respond to our direction. Some signs that you might be having ignition system issues include:

No response – Did you turn the ignition key and nothing happened? Were you in the START position but no response?

Engine turns over repeatedly – Did you turn the key and hear the engine turn over again and again? You may have a short in the electrical system. If you have a multimeter you can run a test to see if this is the cause.

The ignition switch feels hot to the touch– This is a “hot” one! Sorry for the pun but seriously; get your car checked out if you try and start your engine and the ignition switch feels overly hot when you touch it. You may have a frayed wire or loose connection. Don’t take chances.

Car idles – Do you notice your vehicle idling when you pull up to a red light or stop sign? Does it often die on you when you do this? Be sure to have this checked out, too! You don’t want your engine cutting out when you are actually driving!

Play that radio! – Seriously; turn on the radio and make sure that the volume is turned up enough to hear it. While you are at it, try out the headlights and windshield wipers. Why do all this? If your car won’t turn over but the other items work; it’s not your battery and most likely the ignition switch.

Your ignition key is stuck – This one really confuses a lot of people! They go to start the engine, it won’t turn over and now the key won’t come out either! It HAS to be your ignition, right? Not always! Many times all you need is to turn the steering wheel (jiggle it back and forth) or make double sure that the car is in PARK and your key will come out just fine. If the problem is your ignition, none of these efforts will work.

Locked steering wheel – Sometimes the steering wheel locks when pressure is put on it. 99% of the time, this is purely accidental. Maybe you leaned on it a little while getting out of the vehicle or when taking a jacket off. When this happens, the ignition usually won’t make your key stick but it WILL prevent you from turning the ignition. Please note – this is NOT an ignition switch problem! Your steering wheel is just locked. Move it back and forth a bit until your key is released. The car will start now.

It won’t turn off! – If you notice that your car won’t turn off, you more than likely have a problem between your ignition lock and the starter switch itself. Your best bet in this case is to call an automotive locksmith in Miramar, FL as you’ll need to replace the key tumbler assembly as well as the ignition switch. An experienced mechanic can do the job but just might pay a higher price in addition to tow fees.

Not in gear – This is often the usual culprit and is easily remedied. If your vehicle is not in the PARK position, it won’t start; period! Many confuse this for ignition switch issues but it really isn’t. Each car has a safety feature built-in where the engine won’t turn over if the vehicle is not in the right gear. It needs to be firmly in PARK and nothing else. Before you call for a Miramar, FL lock professional to come to your aid; check your gears first!

Did that help?

If you’ve tried these suggestions and nothing helped, it may be time for the professionals to get involved. You can call a mechanic, roadside assistance, your car dealer, a friend or family member that knows auto repair, or a trusted local locksmith shop like ours. Keep one thing in mind. Calling the right lock and key shop saves you time, money and towing charges. Many offer fast service and 24-hour emergency help. Your nonprofessional friends or family members may mean well and try to help. Be careful taking them up on it though as further damage is always possible if they do something wrong and you are the one left paying the price.

Aricle source here: SYMPTOMS OF CAR IGNITION ISSUES

THE BEST WAY TO MAINTAIN YOUR LOCKS

We don’t think much about our locks and keys, but the truth is ~ whether the issue is residential, automotive, commercial, or emergency ~ locks play a huge role in our personal and business lives, every day and night. Whether you’re in a lockout emergency, or encountering something more complicated ~ at your residence, with your automobile, or at your place of business ~ it is definitely irritating, but you don’t have to let it get you down. There are lots of effective ways to stay secure. It’s vital to keep your locks well maintained so that you will be able to prevent most of the issues that could happen when it comes to solving problems with locks and keys.

Take extra security measures. Depending on your situation, if you feel at risk at your home or at your commercial property, there are a good number of ways to give yourself peace of mind.

With preventive maintenance, you’ll avoid future lockouts. If you make an effort to maintain your locks, you may never have to call a locksmith in Miramar. Be on the lookout for:

• difficulty sticking your key in the lock mechanism
• wear & tear
• problems turning the key in the lock mechanism
• rust

If you face any of these issues, it’s best to change your locks, because worn-out locks generally get stuck or break, which means it’s more likely you’ll get stranded without your keys. Old and failing locks also make you more susceptible to robbery.

Extend the life of your locks.

• If the key won’t turn, don’t worry. The pins jam up sometimes. What you need to do is spray the lock mechanism with WD-40 or silicone spray. This will normally solve the problem.
• General lubrication. At least two times a year, or anytime you notice excess friction or grinding in the lock mechanism, apply a silicone-based lubricant spray to the keyhole.
• Periodically replace your keys. We use our keys day and night, over and over; we store them who knows where, and we throw them any place. So if you ever see that your keys are starting to wear down, or if your key is bent or otherwise damaged, then get a new key made. Remember to get rid of your old keys. It’s best to drop them at a recycling center.
  

Most expert locksmiths recommend you install deadbolts. Deadbolts are an exceptionally effective way to enhance your safety and security. Be sure they’re installed correctly. A deadbolt needs to have at least a one-inch throw. On the strike side, there must be a security plate with screws at least three inches long, going all the way into the wood frame of the door. Bear in mind that if you have a window near the door, or glass as part of the door, a thumbturn deadbolt won’t be completely secure, because an intruder could break the glass, reach a hand in, and turn. To prevent this, install a double-cylinder deadbolt lock, since it requires a key on the inside to open the door.

Is your key stuck or broken? Haste makes waste. If you hurry with your key, you may find yourself in a bind, because your key might break off in the lock mechanism! If you take just an extra few seconds, being patient with your key, you’ll save yourself grief.

If you are unfortunate enough to have your key break inside the lock before you close the door, then you won’t be able to lock it, which of course leaves your place vulnerable to theft. If you break the key off in the lock after you’ve shut the door, then you likely won’t be able to open the door again. A broken key can damage a lock.

Is part of the key stuck in the lock? If there’s a tiny bit of the key sticking out, you may be able to get it out. If there’s enough of the key showing, you may be able to pull it out with needle-nose pliers or with your fingers. You’re risking damage, but if you decide it’s worth a try, then use a flathead screwdriver ~ one small enough to fit inside the keyhole. Pry the key inside, to the point where it slightly comes out. If there is any lock damage, call a professional locksmith.

Additional ways to augment your security and safety:

• keypads
• use only reputable optimal-quality brand locks, at least a grade 2
• magnetic locks
• choose a dependable locksmith who is local, bonded, licensed, certified, insured, and background-checked.
• combination locks
• keyless remotes
• safes for home & business
• alarm systems
  

When is it time to change your locks?

• Lost keys. If you have really lost your keys, then it’s time to change the locks. You don’t want to risk the possibility of a robber getting access to your property.
• After a burglary. If there’s been a break-in, replace all outdoor Also replace any indoor locks in order of your personal security preferences.
• A new home. When you move into a new place, immediately change the locks. You never know, there might be former residents who are still in possession of their old keys.
• New roommates or tenants. The same rules that apply to your home apply to your rentals. If you rent out space in your house or in your apartment, replace your locks each time you change occupants. Even if the previous tenants returned their keys, you can’t be sure that there aren’t extra spare keys floating around out there.

There will be circumstances when you really will need to hire a locksmith professional. If you’re located any place in Miramar, Florida, then you ought to call a legitimate locksmith company, such as Locksmith Miramar, which is open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Its staff mobile locksmith technicians are perpetually prepared to get you out of trouble.

Aricle source here: THE BEST WAY TO MAINTAIN YOUR LOCKS

When to Replace Locks

Is it time to change my locks? How can you tell?

Locksmiths are asked these types of questions on a regular basis. Lock replacements shouldn’t be something that greatly mystifies property owners. In fact, there are some signs to look out for that will give you all the right answers to all questions about a lock’s condition. You should be maintaining the locks installed in your residence or commercial building on a regular basis anyway – this is merely part of the process.

Even if you never experience an issue with your locks, it is recommended that you change these every few years. That way, you’ll prevent security hindrances caused by wear and tear, as well as keeping your property’s protection up to date with the latest security developments.

On that note, here are some of the different situations where a lock replacement is highly recommended.

When you move into a new house

We always recommend rekeying the locks as soon as you move into your new home. You don’t know how many keys were made during the previous tenancy: the landlord may have a copy, as well as their former renters, neighbors, the former owner’s immediate family and trusted friends… the list can get quite extensive along the years. Stay on the safe side, and rekey every single one of the locks on your brand new residence – that way, you will know exactly how many keys are out there.

If you’re getting a new roommate

These days, it’s quite common for homeowners to sublet a room in a residential property. ut that calls for special precautions. Always change the locks in your residence when you change tenants, even if you parted ways amicably with the previous renter, to reduce any suspicion if your house gets broken into. Which actually brings us to the next point.

After your property has been broken into

Don’t delay in replacing your locks if you have experienced a break-in: your locks will likely have been compromised and damaged in the process. You don’t want to leave your home vulnerable to repeat offenders or a second attempt at forced entry, or even lock malfunctions as a result of the damage at hand. For your safety, assume that your keys fell into the wrong hands and replace all locks in your property’s external doors.   

As soon as your keys start getting jammed into the lock

That tends to be the best sign of worn out components. Your locks gradually wear out over stress as they age, becoming more difficult to open using your key but easier to break as well. Aged and damaged locks tend to malfunction quite easily, leading to unnecessary lockout situations. It’s not just a sticky key that will indicate signs of wear and tear: if you can see visible signs of rust and tarnishing, it’s time for a lock replacement.

When relationships (not just the romantic kind) go sour

Whether you’ve broken up with your partner, you’ve fallen out with a family member, or you have just evicted a problem tenant, your safest best is to get your locks replaced as soon as possible. As much as we don’t want to think that people won’t break into our homes, you never know what goes on in their minds. Use the same reasoning as the change in tenancy: the sooner you change your locks, the less likely you’ll need to be suspicious of people you know if anything goes amiss.

If a key has been lost or stolen

Figure out which keys are missing and replace them accordingly. If you lost multiple keys, replace the locks according to priority: external door locks should always be replaced immediately, everything else should follow soon after.

On a similar vein: if your kids have a copy of the house keys, you should be changing the locks with more frequency. Children may lose their key on their way home from school, or they could even give it to a friend for safekeeping and forget to get these back.

Constantly losing your keys? It might be worth talking to a locksmith in Miramar about the different keyless options around. With this type of entry system, you have a backup key for emergencies and a special code to use on a regular basis.

After you’ve come back from holiday

Did you leave a spare key with a neighbor while you went on vacation? Even if you trust them, and they have given the key back to you, it’s recommended that you replace the locks on your entrance doors. Just in case they made another copy for someone else you don’t know – even if it sounds highly unlikely, it’s always better to be safe rather than sorry.

How do I replace the locks at my property?

Time to replace your locks? Find a lock and key professional in your area. Locksmiths have all the equipment and know-how to do the job without a hitch, and they will do so for very reasonable prices. You shouldn’t be spending several thousand dollars on a locksmith solution, but it is still a good idea to keep an emergency fund in case your locks malfunction or your security is impaired.

A few pointers to help you identify the right professional for the job. Always check if the people you know (friends, family, neighbors, even co-workers) can give you a few recommendations. Aim for 2-3 company names in your area, and do a bit of background checking. Always call the businesses you have selected, ask them about their key replacement services (and any other service you may be looking for), and get all the essential information about their credibility: licensed and insurance information as well as local client references. Check each detail closely, read up on online reviews, and look at whether any complaints have been filed against the business on the Better Business Bureau.

Always hire a local locksmith, get a full price quote for all services, and make sure to inquire about their charges for after-hours services (these tend to cost a little extra). Locksmith Miramar’s licensed and insured professionals are always available for property owners in Miramar, FL, and there are plenty of credible businesses across all areas. The checks and inquiries are there to ensure you are hiring a professional who will give you great value, whether you need to replace your locks or upgrade your security.

Aricle source here: When to Replace Locks

How to Effectively Avoid Break-ins

Based on the fact that a burglary occurs every 15 seconds in the United States, you can bet on their being a burglary taking place now. It is frightening to think that your home could be one of the dozen currently being broken into right now. The best method for avoiding a break-in is to make your property unappealing to a would-be-robber. We don’t mean that you should have an unkept home or property. You should simply make it look challenging to break into. A thief is looking for the fastest route in and out without being detected. If they see that you take you security seriously by having a security system installed, they will likely go on to the next properly.

When you take your responsibility to secure your home seriously, you can avoid the possibility of someone breaking into your home. At Locksmith Miramar in Miramar, FL, we offer you some practical suggestions on how to avoid a break-in. Take these suggestions seriously and enhance your level of security.

1. Visible Door and Window Locks

Most intruders climb through windows and come in through doors where they have broken the lock. If you’re looking for a good way to avoid an intrusion, invest in sturdy door and window locks. Make it as difficult as possible for them to gain access and avoid a break-in. By making it difficult and time consuming for a possible intruder to break-in, you are discouraging them from doing so. There are certainly some lock brands that are more effective than others and we are able to let you know which ones these are.

2. Securing All Doors

This means even securing your garage doors. In some cases, the garage door leads you right into the house. If someone is able to gain access into your garage, they can also gain access into your home if the garage door leading to your house isn’t secured. Remember to always lock your home door behind you and have a good, sturdy lock installed. It is a good idea to always keep the lock leading from your garage into your home, locked, even when you are at home.

Keep your screen doors locked at all times. Some people assume that since they are home, they don’t need to lock their doors. This is not true. You can’t always monitor every door in your home. People have been known to innocently walk to your home acting as though they are looking for someone whom they know doesn’t live there, simply to get into your home. They could simply be attempting to canvas the neighborhood and see what type of things you have in your home. They are then able to figure out whether or not your home is worth attempting to break into. We suggest having deadbolt locks installed on every door, where possible. They are the sturdiest and most difficult to break.

3. Security Checks

You can rely on a locksmith service in Miramar to assist you with your security checks. Since we install all sorts of security systems, we’ll be able to let you know if what you have in place is a good fit for your home or business. Along with their ability to perform a security check to ensure you have what you need to avoid a break-in, they can also advise you of some inexpensive and practical ways to protect yourself based on their findings. They will perform a thorough inspection of the exterior and interior security of your home and business to determine what level of security you require to avoid a break-in.

4. Security Cameras

Long gone are the days of your only seeing surveillance cameras in businesses. Homeowners are seeing the value in being able to monitor their home while away. A thief doesn’t want to be found out about and having video footage of them could end their attempts to break-in to any more homes. You can invest in a basic surveillance system of you could purchase a more high-tech system that makes it possible to monitor your home from wherever you are.

5. Alarm System

Even when your alarm is not turned on or activated, having the signage in your yard or on your door can be a deterrent for an intruder. We know this doesn’t make sense but again you want to make your home unappealing to intruders and certainly appearing as though you have an alarm can do the trick. You can also have a simple alarm installed, which alerts you when your door or window has been opened. If you want a more advanced system, there are also systems that can monitor the activity in and around your property when you are not there. You usually have to pay extra for this type of monitoring service but if you have had break-ins before we are sure you see the benefit of having this type of system in place.

6. Outside Lights

Shine a light on the problem. If someone is trying to break-into your home, they are less likely to try to do so when there is a light shining directly on them. Placing lights in the key areas around your home is important since it is what will make the intruder run off. They do not want to be detected and surely an illuminated light will surely mean that they can be seen by anyone from the street. We usually install these lights so that they are facing every entryway into your home, including windows and cellar doors.

It doesn’t really matter what type of security you invest in as long as you have it. Having something to deter a break-in is easy, as you can see from the above. However, it is no good to you if you do not act to make sure you can avoid an intrusion from occurring. The suggestions are rather simple and inexpensive and can be implemented in one weekend. So, do your part in making sure you can avoid a break-in by following some of the above suggestions offered to you.

Aricle source here: How to Effectively Avoid Break-ins

Lockouts – how to prevent them!

Are you a careful person? Even if you are, you can still be a lockout victim! Lockouts happen; they occur not only here in Miramar, FL but everywhere! All it takes is one moment of inattention and BAM; the door closes and locks behind you! Lockouts can happen at home, with your car, at work or even at you place of business. While you can’t always prevent them from occurring, Locksmith Miramar offers you these easy steps to cut down on the rate of lockout incidences in your life. Just keep reading and you’ll see!

Why You Should Listen to Us!

Miramar, FL is home to many locksmith shops and one of the best (hey; we are biased!) is ours! Locksmith Miramar is family run and fully licensed. We offer a vast range of locksmith services for your home, business and automotive needs. Like all good shops we also provide responsive 24-hour emergency help. Can you guess what the #1 locksmith emergency happens to be? You guessed it; lockout help! Our friendly and experienced locksmith experts have helped locals with all kinds of lockouts; nothing surprises us anymore! We come to you in fully stocked mobile service vehicles anytime you need us.

Home Lockouts

Lockouts at home happen frequently as more and more people are getting accustomed to locking their doors both night and during the day. This is actually a good practice to start cultivating, but it has one drawback; accidental lockouts. It’s so easy to run out to get the mail and find yourself locked out. Not only is this inconvenient and somewhat embarrassing but it could lead to bigger problems. What if a pot of food was simmering on the stove and no one else was at home? What if you have a toddler alone inside and no one to let you back through the door?

Auto Lockouts

Imagine it; you park the car and turn off the engine. You run inside the pizza parlor to pick up dinner for your family. The melting cheese and the pepperoni and mushroom toppings smell SO good! You have a smile on your face as you pay for your pizza and make your way back to the car when you notice; they keys are dangling in the ignition! Frantically you try the door and sure enough; it’s locked! In our little example, this takes place during business hours, but what if it happens after hours or in a poorly lit or unsafe neighborhood? Auto lockouts can also involve a child or pet still inside the car so it’s best to have a responsive solution to this problem.

Commercial Lockouts

Lockouts happen anywhere there are people and locks. Yes, that includes business locations, too. From retail stores to medical clinics, people can accidentally lock themselves out of the premises and need fast access in a hurry. Whether a clerk went out back for a quick smoke break, and the propped door accidentally closed, or a manager lost his keys and really needs to open for business, the end result is the same; lockout time! Since businesses take many forms and all of them involve some kind of locking items including doors, file cabinets, windows, desks and even walk-in freezers, it just makes sense to have quick access to 24-hour emergency locksmith assistance.

So What’s The Answer?

The best overall answer for combatting lockouts is to be ready for them. They are going to happen anyway but by following these simple and very easy tips you can alleviate much of the anxiety and danger that accompanies them.

Stay Calm

That’s right; keep your cool! Getting locked out is always stressful but often, that stress only makes things worse. In your panic, you might think that breaking back in is what you need to do. Wrong! You can incur property damage, bodily injury and even police arrest if something goes wrong. Some people have even been shot by their own roommates or family members because they weren’t recognized during their break-in. Don’t risk that. Call for help and then call a friend. Doing this calms your nerves while you wait for assistance and also gives you a potential witness in case of problems stemming from being alone and in trouble.

Spare Keys

It never hurts to have a spare key, but be smart and do NOT put it somewhere obvious! Under the door mat or in the flower pot are the first places a crook will look for that key and you can quickly complicate things when you are dealing with a burglar as well as replacing your key! Some spare key destinations include a trusted neighbor, a friend or relative that lives in town, your glove compartment, your purse or even in your smart phone case.

Put Things In The Same Place!

Stop groaning and listen! Being more organized is a good thing. It helps you find things faster and you develop over time a feeling of “something is missing or not right.” If you always take out your keys from the ignition when you park the car, your brain will alert you the next time you don’t do that and lessen the instances where you accidentally leave them dangling while you run inside to pick up that great smelling pizza!

Smart Phone Contacts List

This one is vital! Be sure to add Locksmith Miramar to your smart phone address book. If not us, add another local locksmith shop that is also licensed, bonded and insured. Choose a lock and key company that is affordable, available 24/7 and that responds fast. Phone booths and yellow pages are long gone and won’t be coming back anytime but everyone from grade school children to senior citizens have a cell phone on them at all times. Some even sleep with one under the pillow! Why not make use of this marvelous technology and ensure that Locksmith Miramar is conveniently logged into yours? If you find yourself locked out or needing any kind of lock and key assistance, all it takes is one simple “tap to call” and one of our helpful Miramar, FL lock professionals is one the way!

Aricle source here: Lockouts – how to prevent them!