Better Security for Your Home, Wallet, and Car
We all want our possessions to be secure, whether it's our home, wallet, or car. Sometimes, it's easy to slack off on security, even when we know thieves are lurking. Here are some security reminders, most of which we already know. But, reading them again can bring them back into focus:
Car safety
Lock your car and keep valuables out of sight, particularly if you have an older car that doesn't have the new chip security technology. Cars without security technology are easy to steal, as well, which is an excellent reason to put the old car in the garage and the new car in the driveway. Never leave your vehicle running while you dash into the convenience store, gas station, or coffee shop!
Leaving a key under the mat for a burglar
If people need to enter your home regularly while you're away, leaving a key hidden within easy reach seems like a simple way to solve the problem. But, thieves have spent hours perfecting techniques for finding hidden keys. They know every hiding place in the book, including rock keys, magnetic keys, in the mailbox, under a flower pot or statue, under the mat, above the window ledge, ad museum. It isn't just a whim-- it's their job to rip you off! Are you going to bet free access to your home that you're smarter than a pro?
Alternatives are so easy. Technology will now allow you to have keyless entry and decide in real-time, or even in advance, who will be allowed entrance to your home. Your locksmith can set you up with a keyless entry.
While some people give their neighbor or a friend their key, ask where they intend to keep it when you offer it to them. If they plan on keeping it on that cute key rack by the front door, you have a problem. Because the guy who breaks into that neighbor's house is going to take all of those spare keys, giving him your key and the door key for any other neighbors in the process.
Out in Public
When you're out and about, traveling, or sightseeing, pay particular attention around distractions. Stay highly aware of your surroundings. Distracted people are easy marks, as are people who are sloppy about where they leave their jacket or purse. (Remember when our mothers used to leave their handbag in the baby seat of the grocery cart?) Keep your possessions secure, including luggage, outerwear, bags, and other valuables. Keep doors locked, backpacks zipped, and windows closed.
As an aside, when you're out in public, be very cautious about looking at your cell phone. Many people who wouldn't dream of looking at their cell phones while driving aren't as careful about looking at their screen on a busy street. Once they know you're checking it, it's easy for a pickpocket or mugger to wait until you're looking again, and then strike. This is especially effective in a team situation, where one bumps into the mark while the other robs them.
Hopefully, you're thinking about better security when you're at home and out and about. It's easy to get away from thinking about security, but that very inattention or distraction is the little crack a thief needs to break into your wallet, home, or car. If you need a new lock, rekeying, or are in a lockout situation, call me. I would love to help.
Be safe, everybody!
Kwikpick Lock and Safe offers FREE lockout service for children or pets. If you need locksmith services for your Surprise, El Mirage, or Phoenix home or auto, call today! Bill 623-300-1889.
