locksmithblueisland-blog

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Various Kinds of Locks

With so many different lock types available, it can be hard to know where to start when trying to pick the lock that will get the job done. The type of lock you use depends on where you plan to use it, among other factors. The following article will help you decide which lock best suits your current needs and help you to narrow down how to make the best choice for your home, business, or automobile.

Business Locks

Security for your business is crucial. You want to make sure during both hours of operation and during the off-time hours that your business location is safe. Upgrading or installing a new lock and key system can help bring you a greater sense of peace, knowing that your business is secured. Additionally, regardless of the kind of business you own, keep in mind that the safety of your clientele and employees should remain a top priority. Considering the option that will best serve your business is a choice you will never regret.

There are several different options to consider for securing your business. Though first, consider the size of your business and how many entrances and exits you have. Also, you may want to consider how many employees you have hired and how often they may be coming in and out of the building or buildings that you own. The amount of traffic, as well as the number of doors to and from the building will be helpful to take into consideration when deciding what type of lock system to use.

For the most secure lock system, biometric readers would be your top choice. These devices are able to read one’s retina or thumbprint, allowing access only to those individuals whom you have authorized. For businesses that store highly sensitive or expensive material, higher security such as the kind provided with biometric readers is likely your best bet. While they can be far more expensive and involved than traditional business locks, your local locksmith will be able to further discuss with you how your business may benefit from a more advanced system. You can also pair these systems with other add-on security devices, such as cameras and floodlights, which may also benefit your business’s security needs.

Residential Locks

Deadlocks are the most obvious choice for securing your home. Along with traditional locking doorknobs, a deadbolt adds an extra layer of security to the entryways of your home. Deadbolt locks can be easily installed by your local locksmith. Even though deadbolt knobs can be installed or replaced on your own, it is recommended that you have a locksmith ensure the deadbolts are properly set up. A deadbolt lock that is not installed properly is nearly as ineffective as not having an extra lock on the door at all. To keep your family and your home protected, enlisting the help of a specialized and trained locksmith will ensure your money is well spent and your home ultimately protected.

If you are concerned about your home’s security or want extra protection beyond what is offered from a traditional dead bolt lock, you could install a system similar to those used by businesses, just on a smaller scale. Installing a “smart” or electronic locking system for your home will give you far more capabilities both on site and remotely for securing your home. Thanks to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, many electronic locks can be secured from phone applications and even track entrance and exit traffic to and from your home. There are many great affordable options for electronic lock systems. Be sure to contact your local locksmith and have your home evaluated for the best possible model and options for your family’s security.  

Automotive Lock and Key Systems

If you are concerned about or have even experienced some sort of car theft or break-in, you will likely want added security on your vehicle to prevent another reoccurrence. You may even have a brand-new vehicle that you feel inclined to keep extra secure.  

If you want to secure your car quickly, easily, and affordably, one of your best options is either a steering wheel lock or a pedal lock. These can be especially useful in high-crime areas or if theft in your area has increased. Steering wheel locks connect to your steering wheel and effectively lock it in place. There are various types, but most are quite affordable and easy to install yourself. A pedal lock works in a similar fashion, it just holds the brake in place.  

Another type of lock involves a code pad installed onto your car’s exterior. Some newer models of vehicles either come with or give the owner an option to install a keypad lock. This type of entry is convenient and easy to use. Through the use of a code that is entered into the keypad near the driver’s side handle, the driver is able to enter without a key.  

Purchasing and Installing New Locks

Now that you have taken the time to get an overview of different kinds of locks, and maybe even some newer devices you did not know about, you now must choose a locksmith you will be able to trust. To get the best deal, as well as the best recommendations for how to best secure your home, automobile, or residence, a locksmith with lots of experience should be a priority.  

Blue Island, Illinois residents are in luck for all their locksmithing needs, as one of the best locksmiths in the state resides in Blue Island. Your best choice for a local locksmith in IL is Blue Island Fast Locksmith. Their exceptional service and knowledge of all things lock and key related will let you know right away that you are in good hands. You, your customers, and your family deserve the best guarantee for security! For the safety of the things you love the most — whether it be your business, your home, or your vehicle, there’s no better locksmith to call today!  

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Blue Island Fast Locksmith: What to Do When Transponder Key is Lost

If you happened to end up with a lost a transponder key, we know the struggle. It can be quite frustrating if you have somewhere to go and have no idea where your transponder key ended up.  But don’t worry – there are solutions, and Blue Island Fast Locksmith is here to discuss them with you. We are a locksmith that serves locals in Blue Island, IL and the surrounding area. We have gotten phone calls many times from locals who are missing their transponder key. Rest assured, we can offer advice.  

Do a search online for ‘lost or missing transponder key’ and the results are to be expected. You’re going to find information galore on how to start your vehicle without the key. Of course, this is a very bad idea if you don’t want to cause damage to your vehicle. Messing with important parts can be risky. We are here to make sure locals in the area have access to what they need, thus allowing them to go on with their day. If you aren’t in the area, we are sure you are going to be able to find a lock and security provider that will help you.

First things first – don’t panic!

If you misplace your transponder key, it is easy to become panicked. But what does this ever to do to help a situation?  Try to take a deep breath. Since a transponder key entails technology involved in its functioning, it needs to be programmed by an expert. Here are some things to keep in mind if you end up misplacing your transponder key:

You will need an expert to duplicate a transponder key.

Transponder keys are programmed thanks to the utilization of certain equipment and this isn’t something that just anyone will have sitting around the house. A locksmith, however, will have what it takes. There is a small transponder chip in the key, so one must understand how to handle this component. The chip is made to work with the car’s computer. This is part of anti-theft technology, so while it might seem annoying if the key goes missing, overall it is good technology to have in place.

Transponder keys don’t come cheap, so be cautious.

To copy or create a new transponder key, you are going to need to shell out some cash. For this reason, it’s a wise idea to keep your spare in a place you will remember it. A locksmith can provide other services such as safe installation, and you could store your extra transponder key in the safe, or you could always leave it with a trusted friend or neighbor. Needless to say, it might be costly to replace it.  

A locksmith can provide transponder key services.

In the case of a lost transponder key, turning to a dealership might end up costing you more money than if you were to go elsewhere, like a lock and security provider. A locksmith will offer great deals and since they are mobile they will be able to come to you. You can also expect free price quotes. You might end up being surprised with the rate in a good way if you turn to a locksmith.  

If you lose your transponder key, have a way to demonstrate vehicle ownership.

Transponder keys are anti-theft creations. In line with that degree of security, a professional will ask you to prove you own the vehicle. At least, they should.

It’s a bad idea to try to start the vehicle without the transponder key.

You won’t be able to start your vehicle without the right, properly programmed transponder key. To avoid causing any damage to your vehicle, do not tamper with its internal components in an effort to start it.    

Check what insurance will cover.

While it is not a given that insurance will cover transponder key replacement or reprogramming, it might cover something. It doesn’t hurt to check.  

Are you looking for more information about transponder keys? Do you want to hear about the other options available to you? We recommend that you get on the phone with a local licensed and insured locksmith. We are one that you can talk to about a variety of automotive lock and key services. We can assure you that we are able to understand the importance of security. So if you are not located in our service area, just look around for another reputable locksmith by you. Someone who values security and takes pride in their work is important. You can tell by checking out the reviews left by previous customers online. They should say great things and emphasize the fact that the locksmith was professional, licensed, insured and knowledgeable.  

Remember to take care of your vehicle’s locks and keys, especially the transponder key. Get into a routine – don’t walk away without putting it somewhere specific, like your purse, so you don’t lose it.  And in case anything does go wrong, have an automotive locksmith in mind. Save their contact information in your phone. Remember that there are many services within reach, so you are sure to find what you need if you have any problem with your vehicle locks and keys. We are glad that you have demonstrated an interest in learning more about transponder keys and what to do if you ever misplace one. It is our hope and intention that this article has been beneficial to you. Hopefully you have a better idea to how to handle a lost transponder key – and you know what not to do.  

We are a locksmith that serves locals in Blue Island, IL and the surrounding area so if you are in this part of the state, give us a ring. We have gotten phone calls many times in the past from locals who were missing their transponder key. But we have been there to help them. Thanks for stopping by and for learning more about what we can do to assist you.  

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What To Do When You’re Locked Out

So you’ve locked yourself out of your house. Now what?

Ideally, you’ll already have given a spare house key to a trusted neighbor or friend for just such an occurrence. But if not, here are a few things to try:

1. Ask for Help

Do you live with roommates? Can they come home and let you in? Sure, it may be an inconvenience to ask your housemates to come let you in, but not nearly as inconvenient as being stranded outside your house, especially in the cold. If you rent your place, try reaching out to your landlord. They will usually have a copy of your house key and, depending on their location, may be close enough to swing by and let you in. If you live in an apartment complex, stop by the manager’s office and ask to be let into your place. Just make sure you can provide proof of who you are and the fact that you do indeed live in the complex.

Time to Ditch the Key?

For keyless entry, Schlage’s Keypad Entry Auto-Lock is a popular choice, or check out 6 Great Electronic Smart Locks for Your Home.

2. Look for Unlocked Windows

Open window with plastic frame during cloudy day

Of course you would never leave your windows unlocked, but on the off chance you did, an unlocked window is the perfect entry point. Simply remove the screen, lift up the window, and shimmy through. Be careful as you enter through the window, as you’re likely to be off balance. Also be aware of what furniture or items may be lying below the window, such as end tables, TV’s, or other household items.

3. Grab a Credit Card

This method of lock-picking works only on spring bolts, the kind usually found on standard-issue doorknobs. Doors with deadbolts will not budge under the force of a credit card.

To attempt the credit card lock pick, start by choosing a card you won’t mind possibly destroying, such as a defunct Blockbuster membership card or an outdated gift card. Laminated cards tend to work the best due to the flexibility of the plastic.

1. Insert the card between the frame and the door at the point where the latch is located.

2. Hold the card perpendicular to the door and start pushing and wiggling the card.

3. While you push, start bending the card away from the doorknob in an attempt to slide the latch back and away from the door jam. Try pushing your weight against the door while you bend the card.

4. If you are successful in unlocking the door, call a locksmith. You have now proved how easy your home is to break into and will want to consider upgrading your locks.

4. Take off the Door Knob

After the door knobs are split, each side can be removed.

As long as the dead bolt on the door is not in use, you should be able to gain entry by removing the door knob. Most door knobs have the connection or mounting screws concealed, but look closely at the door knob and you will see a tiny pin-sized hole or slot, usually located below or to the side of the door knob. Using a thin piece of metal, like a straightened bobby pin or a paper clip, insert your newly made tool into the hole and apply pressure. You should feel resistance- keep pushing the metal tool as far into the hole as possible with one hand, while pulling and twisting the door knob with your other hand. Keep up this dance of applying pressure with your make-shift tool and simultaneously pulling and twisting the door knob until you’ve removed the door knob. Now all you have to do is pry off the decorative plate to reveal the lockset. Using a screwdriver (or your bobby pin) pull back on the locking mechanism and the door should unlock.

5. Call a Locksmith

When all options have been exhausted, it may be time to call a local locksmith. Start by getting some quotes on how much they will charge to unlock your house. Many shops charge a visit fee on top of the actual service fee, so call around to get the best deal.

Original Article Here: What To Do When You’re Locked Out

Related Article Here: How to Protect Yourself From Getting Locked Out of the House

If you are experiencing this problem, don’t panic. Call a locksmith expert like Blue Island Fast Locksmith to help you out.

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Blue Island Fast Locksmith in Blue Island, IL – Access Control

Did you know that many locksmiths have experience with access control systems? Yes, we do! Blue Island Fast Locksmith in Blue Island, IL is one such company. We have some of the most amazing locksmiths in the area, dealing with all your access control concerns. 

As a business owner, how much do you know about access control? If you’ve been thinking about installing an access control system in your business, then there’s a lot you need to know. So, keep reading. We’ll tell you all about this fantastic security system.  

Access Control- What is it All About?

Access control systems are security devices that help you to restrict access through a variety of entry points. There are quite a few variations to access control. So, you can often select a device that uses your preferred method of entry. You can access these systems by using an RFID card, a fingerprint, a pass code and much more. But, the whole idea behind these systems is making your property more secure by selectively providing access only to the persons you deem fit.  

Why Install Access Control?

If you’ve been thinking about installing an access control system, you may be on the fence with your decision. But, there’s no need to be unsure about your choice to use this system. Here are some of the many advantages that they offer.

They are convenient to use.

If you hate walking around with keys or struggling to find the right key for the locks on your doors, then you’ll love access control. It eliminates the need for walking around with heavy key chains as well as the time that you’d normally take to determine which key works with the locks on the door you’re trying to open. Your employees should find it much easier to use too. So, overall it usually ends up being much more convenient for everyone who uses it.

They are fairly easy to use.

Access control systems are not difficult to use. Although they may be a bit unfamiliar to persons who haven’t used them before, it’s quite easy to figure out. All you need to do is access the system using the authorization method that it requires. Whether it is a card to swipe, a fingerprint or otherwise, you should have very little trouble using it. The only thing that may pose a challenge is getting it set up, reprogramming codes or other administrative functions to regulate the users of the system.  

They’re easy to maintain.

Not a lot goes into the maintenance of access control systems. So, if you’re concerned about spending a lot of money to keep it functional, there’s no need to worry. Similar to locks, you won’t have extremely high maintenance costs. However, if you aren’t able to reprogram the device, remove old codes or program new ones, you may have to hire help. This may end up costing a bit, but it is preventable if you learn how to maneuver the system on your own.  

You can use them on non-standard doors.

Unlike traditional locks, access control systems can be used in many entryways. So, where traditional locks become obsolete, access control systems can be utilized instead. This is one of the best features of these devices since you may have several areas that you’d like to restrict access to, but they do not have standard doors.  

Now, that you’ve seen a few of the many advantages that access control has to offer, you may be ready to go and purchase one of these devices for your property. But, before you run to purchase that system, here are a few things that you should note.

They can be expensive.

There are a wide variety of security systems on the market today. Some are much less expensive than others. But, there are several varieties that provide a lot of security. Access control is one of the more expensive ones. However, it is not the most expensive. So, if you have a limited budget, access control systems may be out of your reach. But, many users of access control systems will tell you that they are well worth the price as they offer a very high level of security.  

  2. Many of them may require some technical expertise.

Even though they are easy to use, there are quite a few functions that may get a bit technical. So, if you are not tech savvy, or have someone to perform these functions for you, it is likely that you’ll have to hire professional help. The amount of knowledge that you need to operate these systems will vary though. It will depend heavily on how advanced your access control system is.

Hiring a Locksmith to Help with Your Access Control System

Many people call on locksmiths for help when they are locked out of their car, home or business. Maybe they’ll call a locksmith to install or replace a few locks too. But, did you know that locksmiths can install many security devices and systems? Yes! You can call a locksmith to install your access control system. And, it may be much less expensive than calling on a security company to do it for you. So, before you spend that additional money, call the local locksmith in your area to find out about the services they offer for access control systems. You may be surprised to know that they can install, replace and even repair it for you.  

As a business owner, it is your job to make sure that your property is secured with the best devices, hardware and products. If you need any assistance with installing an access control system, please call us at Blue Island Fast Locksmith in Blue Island, IL. Once you’re in an area that we are able to service, we’ll help you as fast as you’d like.  

Perhaps you’re still not certain about whether you should install access control at your property. Call us to get more information on how it can be beneficial to you. We’re always happy to help.  

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2017 Best Home Security Tips

It’s a new year and home security is more important than ever. Our 2017 best home security tips in Orlando can help you keep your home (and business) safer. And when it comes to your safety, cutting corners will end up costing you more than what you believe you saved.

 From the right home security systems, to little tips and tricks you can do yourself, make sure your home stays safe and secure by trying these seven tips and home security tricks below.

It’s a great feeling to take charge of your own home security and make sure you, your family, and your belongings stay safe.

 1. Always Be ‘Home’

This may be the most widely-known tip when it comes to protecting your home from invasion. But having the appearance that you’re home is a great way to deter burglars from your house.

 Typically, when someone wants to break into a home, they want the easiest possible experience. That means they don’t want to deal with people potentially being in the home. Their goal is to get in, and get out as quickly as possible.

 Simply leaving a few lights, or a television running while you’re away is a great, quick way to make your house look occupied, and reduce the risk of break ins.

 A great way to do this is through automatic timers, that can flip on interior and exterior lights at a certain time of day if you know you’re not going to be home.

 2. Install the Best Security Cameras

 This may be the most important tip for having the best home security system. Security cameras are not as big and bulky as they used to be, and are actually quite discrete, and easy to use. Insyte Security uses a variety of security cameras in Orlando homes, and they are as user-friendly as cable television.

 Cameras can be installed just about anywhere inside or outside of your home, with zoom and tilt options to capture every angle, even in the dark of night. They are a cost-effective way to provide a lot of peace of mind.

 Cameras catch would-be burglars in the act so you can call the authorities. But they’ll also give you a clear identity of the perpetrator, so they won’t get away with their potential crime.

 3. Keep Your Security System Secure

 Professional burglars know all the tricks when it comes to getting past an Orlando home security system, even if you have the best home security system.

This means having all wiring hidden on the exterior of your home. If your security system has cables, cameras, etc., make sure they are out of plain sight. This keeps anyone walking the exterior of your home from seeing them.

 Make sure when your security system is being installed, all cables are out of view around your home.

 4. Take Your Security With You

 If you have a security system installed, make sure you know what’s going on, even if you’re not home. A system that can connect to an app, your computer, or directly to your mobile device is a great way to keep track of what’s going on at home if you’re away.

 Most security systems today can send you alerts, updates, etc., and is a great way to have peace of mind, even when everything is secure!

 5. Install Deadbolt Locks

 Obviously, having secure locks is important when it comes to every door in your home that leads in from the outside. Installing deadbolt locks provides an extra layer of security.

 Deadbolts are significantly stronger than typical spring locks, and harder to force open. Make sure to install them correctly so a home invader cannot pry open any space between the lock and the door.

 6. Secure Windows & Sliding Glass Doors

It may seem cliche, but if someone wants to break into your home and they can’t find an easy way through the door, they will try going through the window or patio door.

 There are several options when it comes to securing your windows. First, be sure to install locks on each window. Lower or more vulnerable windows can be reinforced with special glass. Use two smaller window panes instead of one larger pane, so it can be harder for invaders to climb through.

 Typically, if something proves to be difficult, or will take quite a bit of time, they’ll avoid it altogether.

 For your patio or sliding glass doors, reinforce locks by using a metal bar along the track that can prevent home invaders from opening the door. Any metal bar will do. And most can be purchased at your local hardware store.

 7. Hire the Best Home Security Professional Possible

There are many tips and tricks you can do yourself when it comes to the best home security. If you want to ensure its overall safety in the long run, it’s best to hire a professional service as opposed to trying ‘DIY’ security which can have vulnerabilities.

  Safety tips are always important and it’s great to take charge of your own security. But nothing can beat the technology and extra benefits that come from a professionally installed system.

 No matter what type of neighborhood you might live in, and no matter how often you’re home, break ins unfortunately happen all over the country. Keep your home and business safe in 2017.

 Original Article Here: 2017 Best Home Security Tips

Related Video Here: Home Security Tips and DIY Ideas

Securing our place is very important thing to consider. This is to avoid any unnecessary break-ins that could danger your family’s safety. Invest and change your locks now! Blue Island Fast Locksmith  can assist you anytime!

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Why Invest in a Gun Safe

If you consider yourself a responsible gun owner, you likely already have your gun registered. Also, you likely already have your firearms properly locked up? If you have answered no to the latter question, we can tell you right now, you’re not as responsible as you think you are. If you want to protect yourself and others, it is important and necessary to keep your firearm locked up. There are actually state laws that registered gun owners must adhere to if they are to legally carry a gun. A lot of the problem experienced in society today is the guns on the streets that are not registered. Nobody would say that gun safes are not a good idea, unless they intend on using the gun for anything other than hunting and defending themselves when their lives are threatened. Yet, not every licensed gun owner has their firearms locked safely away. If you are interested in finding out which gun safes are best, you are welcome to consult with one of our locksmiths at Blue Island Fast Locksmith in Blue Island, Illinois. If you are one of those people who keep putting it off, perhaps you should continue reading this article. 

Safety: Safety is by far one of the best reasons to consider locking your gun up. Don’t allow anyone to be harmed by a gun that you own. If you do, you could be liable because you didn’t comply with gun safety laws. Take it from us, you need to lock up your gun. We have seen children harm or kill another child because they were playing with a gun they happen to pick up. Not only do children harm and even kill others, but they could harm and kill YOU! This is something to take seriously and not continue to put off.  

Some people like to have guns displayed in their homes using a glass cabinet. While there isn’t anything wrong with this necessarily, it is still in plain sight of anyone who comes into your home. This includes children. What we are saying is that this might not be the best or most practical gun safe to own. Consult with our locksmiths about the type of gun safes they think are best suited for your type of firearms.

Protect Your Rights: Gun activist argue that guns are dangerous no matter who you are. They believe that guns are the biggest threat to public safety. Law abiding gun owners are seen as evil to such persons. When an accident occurs involving a gun, they will then be in a position to prove their claim is true. This will often occur when no one is seriously harmed also. Also, the media loves this type of stuff. They will pounce on the story about a gun going off because it was in the hands of the wrong person. This is especially true if children are involved. If you have your gun locked up you are protecting your 2nd amendment rights and that of other responsible gun owners.

Avoid Getting in Wrong Hands: In order to keep children safe from an incident involving guns, 27 states have made it mandatory for guns to be safely locked up to prevent children from getting a hold of them. You will receive a fine and penalties will be involved. You could also face certain charges if they find you negligent. This will apply to you even if you are someone with a gun who doesn’t have children. If you have a gun and a child in your home gains access and the gun goes off, you’re the one who can be charged. Just makes sense to buy a gun safe and avoid the headache of a court battle.

Firearm Locking Device Laws – 11 states requires gun owners to have a locking device right after they purchase a gun. Some states require you to store your gun with the lock in place. You have to be approved by the California Department of Justice before you are allowed to own a gun in California. You will need to check to find out what your state laws are regarding ownership of a firearm and keeping it locked up.

Keeping from a Burglar – If a burglar makes their way inside your home, one of the top things stolen are guns. They can get street value for a gun. If they know that you have a gun, this is why they may break-in. To get street value, they often know someone who is selling guns on the street. This means no paperwork is involved. However, if you are the owner of the gun and it is used in an armed robbery or shooting, you could be held liable. We have seen it when the gun owner never even knew their gun was missing. Keeping it locked up can help you prevent and avoid legal problems later.

Insurance – Homeowners insurance doesn’t cover stolen firearms. You should now exactly what your coverage covers if you own a gun. There may be limits to how much they will pay to you if something happens to your gun, especially if it isn’t properly stored away in a gun safe. Some policies cover fire damages but will not cover your firearm if it is stolen. Just be advised, even if the insurance company gives you some money for your gun if it is stolen, you’ll never get the full value for your gun.

There are lots of advantages to having a gun safe. We can’t think of one reason why you shouldn’t have a gun safe. They protect you and they protect others. While some people may not care what happens to someone else, and never blame themselves, they usually care if there is a possibility of their being harmed. This is certainly the case when you own a gun that is not safely stored away; you take a chance of being harmed. Do yourself and others a favor by locking up your gun in a safe.

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Happy Holidays – Making Your Home Secure While You Head For The Hills

Making your home secure when your holidays roll around used to rely on a neighbour-annoying alarm, many deadbolts, and some crossed fingers.

Now with huge advances in smart home technology and hardware (AKA a ‘home automation system’), there are new ways in which you can make your house, and you, feel more secure. Even if you’re just away for a few days, there are simple steps we can all take to make it look like someone’s home when they’re not. How home automation can help when you’re out of the house (even just for a night away) depends of course on how much you’re willing to invest in smart home products; but with new innovation it’s less than you’d imagine.

We’ve created a quick checklist of practical and easy, old and new ways to make your home safer. And it’s easier than you think…

Smart Burglar Alarm Systems

Should the worst happen and your home experiences unwanted attention, you want to know that the alarm will be raised. But also you don’t want a ceaseless wailing alarm set off by the cat and ruining your friendly neighbour status. The best solution? The new generation of wireless home security systems and smart home security systems have made installation of home surveillance systems more manageable. So if alarms are triggered innocently, new add-on wireless home security cameras set with alerts make it very easy to peek into your home from afar to check for sure; so you know there is nothing to worry about. (Especially useful when your teenager house sitter promised ��no parties…’).

Smart Lights

Something as simple as a light switch timer can deter unwanted visitors. Timed lights have existed for some time, however, and may not fool anyone interested enough to observe them for a few nights. A cleverer way to incorporate a timer for lights is via an app; meaning you can alter their schedule on a whim, or better still, turn lights on if you want to check something specific (for example, via your security camera during the night).

You can add a smart bulb to existing ceiling fittings and lamps, the benefit of a smart light bulb being complete control from your phone. Hive dimmable bulbs are a great example of this, placed on any schedule at the touch of a button. Research products like Nest (ideal for switching lights off if you left for work in a hurry) and the Phillips Hue motion sensor, too – they’re ideal for energy saving, providing light when movement is detected.

Window Coverings

Nothing says ‘away from home’ like constantly closed or open window coverings. Automated blinds, known as motorised or electric blinds, have been around for a while but even if programmable, most have only been changeable from within a property. Luxaflex PowerView® allows scenes across your home to be programmed automatically or changed through an app remotely. It’s perfect if you prefer each room to have different configurations (perhaps bedroom curtains closing at 8pm, nursery blinds shutting for afternoon naptime) or every room in your home to work to the same schedule. Clever.

Mail Redivert

And an old classic…ok, this isn’t tech driven but does solve an old school giveaway. A pile of unopened mail and leaflets on the doormat is a sure sign that you’re soaking up the sun somewhere else. Rather than asking a neighbour you rarely talk to, to pop round and water pot plants and pick up the mail snow drift consider this little quick online trick: a mail redivert. Royal Mail offer a ‘Nominate A Neighbour‘ scheme to eliminate the evidence by sending your post to a neighbour while you enjoy some well-earned respite, then reverting it when you get home. Just don’t forget to bring them a nice tasteful fridge magnet to say thanks.

Original Article Here: Happy Holidays – Making Your Home Secure While You Head For The Hills

Related Article Here: Protect Your Home While on Vacation

Everyone is now busy planning for their vacation time. Don’t forget to keep your home secured before leaving! Need locksmith assistance? Call Blue Island Fast Locksmith anytime!

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Top Tips And Helpful Advice For Hiring A Locksmith

Knowing who to call for locksmith services is a necessity, but many people don’t know who to turn to when an emergency occurs. It’s never a good idea to wait until the emergency happens. Read this article, which tells you the best way to interview locksmiths to ensure that you have one on call at all times.

Locked outside the house? Don’t agree to replace that lock right away. A good locksmith will be able to get into most types of doors without needing to get a new lock. It’s usually unnecessary for you to spend more money to replace a lock.

Before hiring a locksmith, do your research. You do not want to get someone that is untrustworthy. There are people who will try to take your money.

Check the locksmith’s reputation at the BBB. Another great place to determine the legitimacy of the locksmith is to check with the organization that specializes in verifying them, and that is ALOA.org.

If a locksmith quotes you one price by phone, then tries to up the price upon arrival, tell them you will do business with someone else. There are a bunch of locksmiths out there that will be honest with you, so you can be sure that they will help when this happens.

Try getting a locksmith who stays up to date with the locksmith community. While you don’t absolutely have to, knowing the locksmith is knowledgeable about current technology can be reassuring. It also helps to tell you he is not some fly by night operation that will leave you high and dry!

Having reliable locksmiths in mind can help immensely in emergencies. It will allow you to not have to wait a long time or pay too much. It definitely pays to keep yourself well-educated on how to find the perfect locksmith and keep him on speed dial. The suggestions listed above will assist in preparing for any lockout situation.

Original Article Here: Top Tips And Helpful Advice For Hiring A Locksmith

Related Article Here:  Tips for Hiring a Locksmith

 Need an emergency locksmith? Call Blue Island Fast Locksmith  immediately and they will be happy to assist you!

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What Are the Tips to Avoid the Common Locksmith Scams?

It is true that locksmiths are great when it comes to helping, however, if you choose unknown persons for the job then you might get cheated. When any emergency situation arises, we tend to call up any person who can help you out. We unknowingly commit a mistake of calling someone who either does not have the right skills or is a cheater who can dupe you of your valuables. No locksmiths come with a warning sign on their head. Hence it is our duty to inspect the person well before hiring him for the job, after all, it is the matter of our security!

Nowadays, people play their smartness in wrong things which lead to scams. Yes, it even happens in the case of a locksmith. There are a lot of points that have to be considered when choosing the right person for the job in order to avoid the ill effects. One should be careful and not rely on any person who claims to have experience and skills in the desired field or work. In fact, that person has to be scrutinised and only hired when he is successful in convincing you with the proofs.

Things to Avoid Locksmith Scams

Let us go through some of the simple yet effective tips that can rescue us in dealing with the wrong person for the lock related services. Mentioned below are few of them, have a look at them.

·        Not going for a local locksmith: Generally, a local person of your area can be trusted. He must have worked already for you earlier or for your friends or neighbours, who can let you know about his reliability, performance, and other attributes. On the basis of their verdict, you can hire him.

·        Picking up Online locksmiths: Well, it is understandable that nowadays people rely on online sites for various services. It looks easier and quicker but not reliable. Still, if you are a busy person and cannot roam around to find a right serviceman, then you need to be attentive and check out the entire website carefully to know in detail about the person whom you are thinking to hire for the job.

·        Not checking License: This is a critical step to accomplish, and it is to check the license of the person who has come at your service. It is a verification step that will help you understand how qualified and how skilled the locksmith is. In addition to this, you can even check the person’s id and certification to know in detail about him.

·        Hiring without asking for a quote: There are some of the locksmiths who do not give a quote and postpone till the job is done. And later, they charge extremely high prices. Well, this behaviour is completely bad. The people who quote the price just after knowing what has to be done are the ones who can be easily trusted as they do not charge anything beyond the service.

·        Ask few questions: There are certain questions that you need to ask the locksmith and then decide whether to hire him or not, some of them are:

1.      Do you offer a guarantee?

2.      Where is your office or company located?

3.      What is your name, qualification, and other related details?

4.      What is the process you are going to apply for my concern?

5.      Do you charge anything extra?

There are many more questions and factors that you can consider which you have in mind and be clear before agreeing and hiring the locksmith services. Be careful and make sure to hire the best person for the job.

Original Article Here: What Are the Tips to Avoid the Common Locksmith Scams?

Related Article Here: 12 Ways to avoid Locksmith scams

Looking for a trusted locksmith for your home or business? Choose Blue Island Fast Locksmith and you will surely get satisfied with their services!

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Security expert reveals insider tips on keeping your home safe

A leading security expert has advised people to be careful about what they post on social media when their homes are empty, warning: “Criminals have access to social media too”.

John Kinsella, director of AccurA Security, says criminals are constantly scouring Facebook to check if people are out socialising.

Mr Kinsella says people should avoid airport check-ins on Facebook and posting statuses about upcoming holidays as it lets burglars know your home is going to be empty for the next week.

“If you really want to check-in, wait until you are back home and your house is no longer empty,” he told Independent.ie. Another piece of advice Mr Kinsella has for social media users is to avoid uploading pictures of expensive gifts they receive.

“Don’t show the criminals what’s on offer,” he says. Regards keeping valuable items in your home, the security expert says to keep keys and other items downstairs so that in the event of an intrusion, the raiders do not need to go upstairs.

“Material items can be replaced, you can’t,” he warned. Here are his top tips for keeping your home safe from burglaries:

Use your house alarm at all times. Remember, burglaries happen during daytime hours just as often as at night.

Make sure that your CCTV system is tested and fully operational. A quick wipe with a clean cloth can make all the difference when it comes to identifying intruders.

Have a USB memory stick ready in the event that you need to provide footage to gardaí. They may well have their own but don’t take chances.

Avoid photographing expensive items/gifts and displaying them on social media, don’t show the criminals what’s on offer.

In the event of a family gathering, make sure that a responsible keyholder is available within a short space of time (no more than 30 minutes) to open the premises should you need to have the premises checked.

Make sure your mobile phone is charged at all times and keep it on you – always. Beware of bogus collectors calling upon elderly friends and family. If in doubt, call the gardaí.

Store the telephone number for your local garda station in your phone.

‘Prevention rather than cure is the most important thing,” he added.

Original Article here: Security expert reveals insider tips on keeping your home safe

Related Article here: Add a Wireless Security Camera

Wanna secure your homes against burglaries? Call Blue Island Fast Locksmith and they will help you anytime!