Security Checks for Sheds and Outbuildings

We tend to spend more time outside in these summer months. As a result, we tend to spend more money, as well. After winter, we’re outside tending to our gardens and lawns, cultivating their beauty with our expensive garden and landscaping tools. Garden equipment may seem like frivolous items, but like many of your possessions, they are worth protecting. Therefore, it is important to make sure that any sheds, garages or outbuildings are properly protected against theft. The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) recommends ways to keep your tools safe.

Security Checks for Sheds and Outbuildings
Security Checks for Sheds and Outbuildings

 

Tip #1
This may seem obvious, but it is important to put your tools away after you’re finished using them. Not only does this keep things in its proper place, but it also prevents any thieves from the temptation of taking any equipment that is not properly stored.

Tip #2
Always check doors and windows on any outbuildings. Check for:
weathering,
rust,
broken windows, and
any other sign of weakness.

It is also important to check all of your padlocks, to make sure they are in good shape.
Many consumers purchase simple locks and install them themselves. However, with your expensive garden equipment, consider hiring a professional locksmith for the task.

Tip #3
Make sure to install lighting around any outbuildings. Another option could be an alarm.

Expensive tools are worth protecting; however, be aware that they are often used as a means to break into other buildings, as well. This is even further incentive to make sure they are securely stored. These small investments in security can prevent you both loss and damage.

Need help with your shed? Reach out to us at 904-246-4590 for a top quality, professional and honest locksmith in Jacksonville.

Keep Your Kids Safe in Summer Heat

It can be tempting to leave a baby alone in a car while we quickly run into the store. And sometimes, babies and young kids can sleep so peacefully that we forget they are even there. The problem is that leaving a child alone in a car can lead to serious injury or even death from heatstroke.

Save your baby from heatstroke
Save your baby from heatstroke

Heatstroke is the leading cause of non-crash, vehicle-related deaths for children. On average, every 10 days a child dies from heatstroke in a vehicle. Young children, in particular, are at risk as their bodies heat up three to five times faster than an adult’s. Tragedies like these are completely preventable. Below is a short guide to help keep your kids safe from heatstroke.

Reduce the number of deaths from heatstroke by remembering to ACT, according to Safe Kids Worldwide.

A: Avoid heatstroke-related injury and death by never leaving your child alone in a car – not even for a minute. Also, make sure to keep your car locked when you’re not in it so kids don’t get in on their own.

C: Create reminders by putting something in the back of your car next to your child such as a briefcase, a purse or a cell phone that is needed at your final destination. This is especially important if you’re not following your normal routine.

T: Take action. If you see a child alone in a car, call 911. Emergency personnel want you to call. They are trained to respond to these situations. One call could save a life.

Remember, in an emergency call 9-1-1, then call Pop-A-Lock Jacksonville at  904-246-4590. PAL Saves Kids, our free community emergency door unlock program can rescue your child who is accidentally locked in your vehicle.