Locksmith security tips and advice

 

Our locksmith usually responds to an emergency, but there are times when he is asked to implement preventative measures. There are many security tips we can give to help prevent the need for an emergency call out, but also to make your home just more secure in general. More vulnerable people like the elderly should take certain steps to help keep their home secure.

 

 

Good Practices

 

• Leave spare cares with a relative or trusted friend. This could negate the need for a locksmith if you lock yourself out, and also in an emergency allow access to your property by emergency services if you are unable to open the door.

• Take care when answering the door to an unexpected visitor. You could have a peephole fitted so you can see who it is before you open the door. A door chain can help, but I would say these are less secure as a swift kick to the door will pop these off their mount. 

• Never leave keys on the inside of door locks or window ledges near the door as burglars can break a window and reach inside and unlock the door.

• Do not use a key safe. They have become increasingly popular, but everybody knows what they are and you are essentially advertising the location of the keys to your property.

• Don't leave your address or personal details on any keyring or tag. If you lose your keys away from the home that could leave your house vulnerable.

 

Physical Security

 

• The home office recommends fitting 5 lever deadlocks to all external doors. You should have or upgrade locks to British Standard BS 3621:2004.

• Sheds and outbuildings are very vulnerable to theft, you will need a substantial lock and padlock installed.

• Have window locks fitted and keep your windows locked. People on the ground floor are more vulnerable to burglary.

 

Security Deterrents

 

• Marking your property makes it more difficult for a criminal to sell on your property.

• Timed lights or floodlights with motion detection act as a good deterrent to burglars.

• Pebbles of gravel on your driveway alerts you when someone is approaching your house.

• Venetian blinds or vertical blinds can act as a deterrent as they are noisy obstacle for burglars attempting to gain entry.

• Install an alarm system. If you do not have a great budget motion detectors are available for as little as £40.

 

 

When On Holiday

 

If you want your house to appear occupied:

• Use a timer switch to have a radio come on and off to give the impression there is someone home.

• Use timer switchers to switch lights on and off and suitable times of the day and night.

• Do not leave curtains drawn during the day.

• Cancel your milk and papers. And finally, ask a neighbour to keep a watch on your property, while you are away

 

 

BH Locksmith is based in Bournemouth and also covers Poole. Our full range of locksmith services include but are not limited to fitting and replacing locks, car and house lock-outs. We are committed to achieving the highest standards in our industry. Our locksmith is trained the highest standard.