In the time it takes you to read this paragraph, another burglary will have occurred. What makes burglary so common? Surprisingly, burglars march right through a door because it is easier. Even those residents who remember to lock their doors often have inadequate locks that invite intruders, as Middletown NY insurance agents and brokers can tell you.
Fortunately there are several options that can do a better job keeping burglars out and your stuff inside! Even if your home is fairly new, you may need to upgrade your locks for optimal safety and security.
As most contractors install locks based on price, not security, you should make a survey of your existing locks and see which ones need upgrading. Your Newburgh NY insurance agent can offer advice, and here is additional information and advice from lock experts.
As most contractors install locks based on price, not security, you should make a survey of your existing locks and see which ones need upgrading. Your Newburgh NY insurance agent can offer advice, and here is additional information and advice from lock experts.
1.) Install locks with deadbolts.
Homes usually have either spring-bolts or deadbolts. It is common to find entry doors with both a spring-bolt lock and a deadbolt. A dead bolt differs from a spring-bolt lock in that a deadbolt cannot be moved to the open position except by rotating the lock cylinder. On the other hand, applying force to the bolt of the more common spring-bolt lock can permit retraction. You’ve seen movie characters open those locks by inserting a credit card. Various youtube videos show how easily it can be done. A deadbolt, however requires a key or significant force to open due to its design and weight. However, beware double-cylinder deadbolts, which require a key on both sides, and thus can be a safety hazard in case of fire.
2.) Install quality locks.
Do not just grab something quick at the hardware store or accept whatever the locksmith brings to install. Insurance companies will look for a deadbolt lock with an ANSI Grade 1 classification. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) uses an accepted system for grading the security and durability of locks. You cannot always judge lock quality by appearance, so be sure to look for the designation “ANSI Grade 1.”
3.) Install locks with key control.
How many people currently have keys to your home? Do you even know? In addition to family members and roommates, what about prior roommates or even fired domestic help? Even mechanics have been known to duplicate the house keys on the key ring of cars left for repairs. Burglaries have been traced back to such keys. Consider installing locks that use keys that cannot be copied (as many apartment dwellers know) except by certain locksmiths or by the lock manufacturer.
4.) Install keyless locks.
You may want to consider upgrading to keyless locks in order to prevent the problem listed above. Keyless locks come in mechanical and electronic versions, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Some allow you to change the combination easily, which may be necessary if there are changes in household help or even divorce.
As you upgrade your locks to provide greater home security, you may qualify for insurance discounts. Be sure to talk about your insurance needs, or ask for NY insurance quotes from your local agent.
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