Severe weather can affect the security of your home. Follow these tips.
With so many intense and damaging storms coming at us from all directions today, it’s very important to make sure that your home and/or business are secure, both before and after severe weather. Of course, ensure the safety of everyone in your home or business first, then do an assessment of your property only when it is safe to do so. Here’s some tips to help you.
Ensure all door and window locks are operational, and secured
It can be easy to overlook an unlocked window or door, so taking the time to do this, especially after a storm is important. Locks can degrade over time or get damaged, which is why it is a good idea to have a locksmith help you out if you are uncertain. Also, locks (like deadbolts) are only as good as the surface that the lock touches. If your strike plate is loose, or your door is weak or rotted, it isn’t able to properly secure your property. You may also want to inspect and oil your hinges. If you find any metal flakes, that may be a sign of wear, or future breakage, so be sure to get it checked out.
Check your electronic locks and security systems
If you have a security system or lock that uses a battery backup, it is a good idea to ensure that the battery is charged or replaced, as they degrade over time, whether or not the electronics have switched to backup power. Replacing backup batteries based on voltage testing results and battery expiration dates is a good habit – and you can easily set a calendar reminder on your smartphone so you don’t overlook this when the battery’s expiration comes up. Double check your breaker box if you lost power to ensure that all your circuits/appliances are getting power. Consider a video doorbell as well for an added measure of security.
Ensure that only people you trust have keys to your home or business
If you find yourself in need of lending keys to friends or contractors, or worse – losing your keys, then re-keying your locks may be a good option for you. It’s always a smart idea to reassess who has access to your home or business. If you are not the first owner of your home, then it is likely that other keys to your home exist. And burglars know what a “hide-a-key” looks like and will likely look for a key stashed around your home, so keep in mind that even great hiding places for a spare key may not be worth the risk.
Take other simple measures, in addition to locks
Consider outdoor and landscape lighting (solar options save energy and work when the power is out). Ensure that you have clear sight lines to/from your home’s access points. This may also require landscape pruning or modifications. Don’t forget your garage – ensure any doors are locked, and valuables aren’t visible through any windows (some tools and machinery can be pretty expensive). Lock down your wi-fi, and store valuables in a securely installed safe (bolted down). And if your home has any firearms, ensure they are safely and properly secured/stored. Also, consider home automation for timers on your lights, and smart locks for your doors. Wireless cameras are also a great deterrent and are increasingly affordable, and some allow for 2-way communication.
Integrity Locksmithing Havelock, Ontario
Integrity Locksmithing is a full-service, fully certified locksmith company. We offer a wide range of locksmith services to both residential and commercial customers. The owner, Randy Sayles, offers uniform cost-effective and professional lockout assistance. He also offers lock installation, and security solutions. In many cases, lock re-keying is the more affordable solution to having the locks changed in your home or business. Call Randy at 705-653-8834 or visit www.integritylocksmithing.ca to discuss your options today.
