Tag: home locksmith jax

It’s Spring! Time to Update Your Home Security

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Every spring, we clean our homes as part of “out with the old, in with the new.” And you may be planning to invest in some home improvements and decorating, as well. However, don’t forget to protect your home and all of your hard work with the correct security measures. The higher the investment, the higher the risk of crime.

It’s easy to check and maintain your property’s security with a few simple steps. Firstly, it’s important to give your house and garden a thorough audit from the outside in. Ensure trees and bushes are kept to a reasonable size to reduce the possibility of burglars using them as “cover”. Also check the condition of your fences and gates, which can be prone to neglect, as any weak points can make it easier for would-be thieves to gain entry to your property.

Outer buildings are often target. External storage such as sheds and garages should be secured with high-quality padlocks, with hasps and staples.

In addition, don’t be tempted to leave your free-standing garden furniture out overnight, and keep ladders, bins and gardening tools stored out of sight as these can be used in opportunist crime to gain access.

In terms of windows, check that all on the ground floor and any that are accessible on higher levels have secure window locks. It is important to check the quality and integrity of the locks as well as the structural condition of the doors and windows themselves. Locks can be prone to rust, while rotten and cracked frames can make doors and windows easier to break through. If you have any doubts, a local qualified locksmith, such as Pop-A-Lock Jacksonville, will be able to advise on which locks will be the most suitable, and ensure that they’ll meet insurance requirements.

Sensor lights or dusk-to-dawn lighting are additional deterrents and also help you gain access to your home late at night. Opportunist thieves often approach houses that look like nobody is at home, so by installing a number of light timers around the house it appears that the house is occupied and therefore minimises the risk of a break in. A “fake TV” is also a good idea – this device emits light that mimics that of a TV and can give the impression somebody is watching something in an upstairs room for example.

It almost goes without saying, but be sure to lock up your house and set the alarm every time you leave. Don’t leave keys on show, particularly near doors, and never leave valuables such as laptops or jewellery on show which can tempt potential burglars. If necessary, get a safe professionally specified and installed.

By taking some simple security measures, you can ensure your property isn’t vulnerable to thieves and your possessions are protected from the threat of crime.

If you’re confused and need help with updating your home security locks, we’re only a phone call away at 904-246-4590.

The History of Home Security

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During the holidays, we’re reminded of the historical first Thanksgiving. Just as almost everything that exists today has a history, the same can be said for home security and the locksmith industry. We’ll be talking briefly about this history and give you some ideas on how better to secure your own home in the process.

At some point in time, people began to believe their possessions had value. From then on, home security became important to ancient humans. Although prehistoric humans, most likely, slept in caves or trees to protect themselves from nighttime predators, it soon became necessary to protect their possessions as well. However, the threat to home security did not come from just animals, but from other humans.

Early Locks in Walled Cities

Later, as time went by, prehistoric humans moved out of caves and into walled cities. And around 2,000 BC, the Egyptians invented what become known as the first “lock”. These early locks used a pin system based on the same principles as modern pin tumbler locks.

However, these early locks needed a large key to operate. The average key size during these times was 13 to 14 inches long, while keys to important public buildings or city gates could be two feet or longer. These early keys were signs of authority. Those who possessed them carried the keys on their shoulders.

The Barron is Introduced

By the 15th century, France had become the epicenter of lock making. But, the French chateau locks and chest locks were susceptible to burglars because their designs were similar to ancient Egyptian locks and were, therefore, becoming easier to pick.

Lock security got an update with an English lock known as the Barron. The Barron was patented in 1778. It was quickly replaced by the Bramah lock and the Chubb lock. These locks were considered unpickable, but eventually succumbed to lock pickers.

In the late 19th century, Linus Yale, Jr. developed the modern pin-tumbler type locking mechanism, which is still in use today. It has undergone many changes to enhance security, though nearly every improvement has been overcome by lock pickers. Because of these, lock companies continue to make changes to prevent burglars.

Protect Your Home and Business This Holiday Season

Today, the average thief rarely picks a lock. Instead, they force their way in using crowbars, screwdrivers, hammers and rocks. Although these techniques are not very sophisticated, they are quite effective.

Personal and physical security should be a top priority for every homeowner and business owner. Good quality locks and strong doors are excellent burglar deterrents. Security lighting, grills, and screens and fencing are also extremely effective in thwarting burglars.

So, take a cue from our ancestors and take steps to secure your home and business. To learn more, contact Pop-A-Lock Jacksonville today at 904-246-4590.