For further information go to Mr. Locksmtih
- Lock Your Doors
- Rekey your Locks
- Alarm System
- Security Guard or Runner Service
- CCTV (Cameras)
- No Cash on Premises
- Fire Safes and Burglar Safes
- Gun Safe
- Facebook and Social Media
- Mark and Engrave all Your Valuables
Hi I’m Terry Whin-Yates from Mr. Locksmith, and this is the top 10 security tips for securing your business during the holidays
Lock your doors. It’s amazing how many businesses are unlocked after employees leave or you leave. The crooks are shake, walking around, shaking the doors, seeing what’s open. It’s amazing how many businesses are unlocked at night. So lock your doors, secure your windows, and check it make sure everything. It’s amazing how many people do not lock their doors during the holidays or during any time of the year.
Rekey your Locks: When you’re re-keying your locks, it’s a good time to go to a restricted or high-security key and lock system. When you use these systems like Abloy, Medeco, Primus, what happens is the keys are restricted and only for sale at the locksmith’s. You’re not going to be able to walk into the local hardware store with a Medeco key and get it cut by that local hardware store or the shoemaker who cuts keys. When you stamp do not copy or do not duplicate on a common key like Schlayge, Schlage, Kwikset, or Weiser, it’s a waste of time. The local hardware stores have those key blanks, and the little shoemakers on the corner, they will cut those keys. Do not copy, do not duplicate stamped on a key is a waste of time. You have a high-security restricted key blank, they are never ever sold to the local hardware store, or the Home Depots, or anybody except for locksmiths who are security cleared and qualified. They are the only ones with those restricted keys. So get a high-security restricted key system. When you give it to staff, if when they leave or whatever, when they hand you back that key, you know they have not had that cut anywhere.
Mr. Locksmith
is an ABLOY® Protec Authorized Dealer
Alarm systems are not the big deterrent anymore, they were 10, 15, 20 years ago. You could put a alarm sticker on your business, and the crooks wouldn’t bother with your business. However now they’re breaking in. They don’t care. They’re gonna get in quick and get out. But you still need alarm system. The alarm system will scare them off, or at least them know it’s time to go. Alarm systems should be monitored, they’re not as expensive as they used to be. You can get a good quality alarm system and monitored for a very fair price. When it’s monitored the police never show up. No matter what they tell you, unless you’re in a small town, in any of the major cities, a alarm on a business or a home, that’s called into the police is a low low priority. They’re so busy they’re not gonna go out. If you wanna be really secure, you have your monitoring station then contact security guard company or a runner service that when the alarm goes off, for a small fee, they show up at the business, they look inside check the doors. If you’ve been broken into, they call the police. The police will respond to a security guard or a runner service saying in progress or it’s been broken into. They will show up. So a alarm system with a runner service is the way to go.
CCTV: Cameras will not stop break-ins. However they are good for an investigative aid for the police after the fact. And a lot of times these burglars, these criminals are hitting business after business. When the police have video to view, then they have some evidence to tie them to the crime. So it’s an investigative aid. Again it won’t stop crime, but it’s great for the police to use, or even yourself when you’re viewing the video. Sometimes you’re amazed its a former staff, current staff, or someone you know. It’s always amazing when you’re looking at the video and you go, oh shoot I know who they are.
No Cash on Premises: If you have a retail business or a restaurant, take your empty till at the end of the night, and put that till drawer and put it at the front door, if you can look inside. Put it on the floor, put it against the door, say no cash on premises. It is amazing how many businesses leave money in the till. They think oh you have the change, you have a few bills, there’s still usually 20 or 100 bucks which makes a crack-head or a meth-head happy. Take your till, empty it, put it by the front door. Show no cash on premises. That is just amazing. That will slow down the criminals. They have to really want to come in.
Fire safes and Burglar safes are two different things. A fire safe will protect your business records. A burglary safe will protect your valuables and cash. If you’re paying under $300 for a safe, it’s not a burglary safe. Good quality burglary safes are expensive and they’re rated as burglary safes. Too many businesses are going to the local store, buying a inexpensive fire safe, and then throwing money or jewelry in it. It’s amazing what I see inside some of these fire safes. If you’ve seen my other videos, you know the inexpensive safes, fire safes, shouldn’t even call them safes, are super easy to open. And with a crowbar or a large screwdriver, they pop left right center. Don’t put a fire safe to protect your valuables. Realize fire safe is for protecting documents from fire. Get a burglary safe. There’s lots of information on my website and other places to get good quality burglary resistant safes.
Terry Whin-Yates Opens locked safe
Gun Safe: One thing that’s overlooked is a gun safe for your business. Gun safes are big, they’re not that expensive, and you don’t have to put guns in them. They’re huge container that’s very secure, even an inexpensive gun safe. Have that tucked away in the back and put some of your valuables in there. You’re gonna slow down the burglars. They’re gonna get into it, but it just slows them down. Gun safes are fantastic for large items or just a lot of little stuff that’s not really expensive, but you don’t wanna lose. Anchor the gun safe to the floor or the wall or both.
Facebook and Social Media: Be careful. When you go on vacation and you’re putting postings, we’re closed ’cause we’re going to Hawaii, you’re telling every burglar in town that your the business is, no one’s there, you’re gonna be away, they can see how long you’re gonna be away for. I know it’s difficult. We all love our social media, like to post pictures of you on the beach to the people in 40 below with snow, but be careful with your social media, what you’re posting. ‘Cause they’re gonna know the business is closed, you’re away, and also know your home is, you’re not at home either. So be careful with social media, what you post, especially when your extended vacations are away.
So I hope these top ten, I added a little bit more, security tips to securing your business during the holiday seasons has been good and lots of information for you. So I wanna wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
For On-line and Hands-on Locksmith Training Dates and Cities near you for Beginners, Intermediate, Advanced Locksmithing as well as my Covert Methods of Entry, Non-destructive Methods of Entry and to purchase the Famous “Dumb Key Force Tool” that opens Smart Key locks in seconds go to Mr. Locksmith Training
For Locksmith Franchise and Licensing Opportunities go to http://mrlocksmith.com/locksmithfranchise-opportunities/
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Image Source: Flickr
Cities with the Highest Violent Crime Rates
- Louis
- Atlanta
- Birmingham Alabama (tie)
- Orlando (tie)
- Detroit
- Memphis
- Miami
- Baltimore
- Kansas City, Missouri
- Minneapolis (tie)
Cleveland (tie)
Source: USNews
Cities with the Highest Burglary Rates
- Cleveland, OH
- Toledo, OH
- Columbus, OH
- Cincinnati, OH
- Memphis, TN
- Detroit, MI
- Tulsa, OK
- Oklahoma City, OK
- Greensboro, NC
- Atlanta, GA
Source: TopTenReviews
Cities with the Highest Property Crime Rates (includes Burglary, Larceny-theft, Motor Vehicle Theft)
- Spokane, WA
- Fayetteville, NC
- Little Rock, AR
- Columbus, GA
- San Antonio, TX
- Springfield, MO
- Lubbock, TX
- Montgomery, AL
- Fresno, CA
- Miami, FL
Source: ASecureLife
If you’re planning your summer vacation, you may want to cross these cities off your list of potential destinations.
Contact:
Mr. Locksmith
555 W. Hastings St
L21A
Vancouver BC V6B 4N4
(604) 259-2953
Image Source: Flickr
Noticeable Consumption
We get it, you are proud of your acquisitions and your possessions. There is no shame in that as you have worked hard to obtain all these items after all. However, remember a constant stream of boxes littered on obvious places in your house such as TV boxes scattered by the trash bin outside, online shopping shipments delivered to your homes, etc. is one way to get you noticed. Remember, robbers usually scout neighborhoods and mark potential homes as targets before committing a robbery and if you are constantly leaving traces of your purchases outside your home, you may be as well as pointing a big red arrow towards your house. Source: 63RealEstate
Leaving the Doors and Windows Unlocked
Over a third of burglars enter the house through the front door. After knocking to confirm no one is home, they’ll test the door to see if it’s unlocked. An alarming number of times they’ll discover they’ve hit the jackpot and walk right in. Keep your doors locked, even if you’re just running the kids to school or walking the dog. As a law enforcement officer, I took several reports of burglaries that occurred while the homeowner was right in the backyard playing with the kids. So don’t assume your presence will scare him away.
Don’t be fooled; the second floor of your home isn’t burglar-proof. In fact, he’ll use the ladder you left out last weekend to access your home’s second floor windows with ease. Keep all windows closed and locked, and be sure they are outfitted with window alarm sensors. Should a burglar attempt to enter, you’ll know right away. Don’t overlook securing small windows, like those commonly found in basements and bathrooms. An adult might not be able to fit through it, but sadly, some burglars will force their children though, who then unlock the front door for the burglar to enter. Source: SafeWise
Lack of a Security System
When keeping your home safe, it’s important to leverage all your assets. This could be neighbors, proper gardening, and the police. But with cops on call several miles away, it’s unlikely that a law-abiding passerby will report a break-in. A security system can help automate this whole process for you, using censors to detect intrusion and reporting the incident to the security company, who can contact the proper authorities. You’ll need allies in your fight against burglars, and a security system is your Bat Signal. Source: ProtectYourHome
Reconsider your daily routine to determine whether you are unknowingly leaving your home open to burglaries. If you want to know more about ways to secure your home, contact us now!
Contact:
Mr. Locksmith
555 W. Hastings St
L21A
Vancouver BC V6B 4N4
(604) 259-2953
Image Source: Flickr.com
Window Bars
Iron bars on your windows make your home very burglar resistant – even if a thief smashes through the glass, they cannot squeeze through the bars to burgle your home. Many people are resistant to the idea of window bars however, since they feel that bars make a house more like a prison than a home.
However, if this option appeals to you, be aware that some companies specialize in decorative window bars that are absolutely beautiful and can be customized to suit your home’s design. Source: SafeSoundFamily
Reinforce Windows
Besides your doors, windows are another important point of entry to secure. If you live in a high-crime area, consider placing iron bars on your windows to make them burglar-resistant.
If your windows are old, they might be easier to break, or break into. If you’re getting new windows, consider tempered glass, which is more durable than traditional glass.
You can also make windows more secure with:
- Security film
- Roller shutters
- Security screens Source: AlarmRelay
Purchase a Security System with Motion Sensors
All homes should have some form of security system, whether it’s a basic camera installation or a fully monitored smart system. Evaluate the needs for your area and choose a system you’re comfortable with. Some of the basics to consider include an alarm, motion sensors for the doors and windows, and carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Source: Safewise
For more tips and ideas, contact us here today!
Contact:
Mr. Locksmith
555 W. Hastings St
L21A
Vancouver BC V6B 4N4
(604) 259-2953
Below are 3 tips for choosing the right business security systems:
Conduct a Security Review
Since small business owners cannot afford to leave any of their valuable assets —including customer data, inventory and computers — unprotected, many install security systems as a first line of defense against thieves. Small business owners need to know the right questions to ask before plunking down money on equipment and ongoing monitoring.
The types of features and function of an alarm system can vary greatly by the type of business being protected, experts said. A reputable alarm company will perform a site survey before recommending an alarm system or any security equipment. Source: BusinessNewsDaily
Select Security System Solutions
Select solutions to the problem areas in your security system. Address lighting problems by adding motion-sensing lights to your property and removing obstructions like excessive plant growth. Add security cameras to keep sensitive areas under surveillance and use a digital video recorder to keep extended surveillance records. Upgrade locks on entrances and windows. Purchase time-clocks to keep track of employees coming and going. Multilayer your security system. Especially sensitive areas should be protected by locks, security camera surveillance and alarms. Source: Overstock.com
Other Factors to Consider
Another factor to consider is whether you want to be able to control the security features of your business off-site, whether you’re at a conference for a few days, or just home at night looking to make sure all is well at work. You could also choose to give access to these types of controls to certain employees. The choice is yours.
You’ll also want to decide whether a wireless or wired security system is the best fit for your business. If you’re in the planning phases of creating office space, workspace, or a storefront, consider security systems now. Source: AlarmRelay
Contact:
Mr. Locksmith
555 W. Hastings St
L21A
Vancouver BC V6B 4N4
Canada
Terry Whin-Yates from Mr. Locksmith demonstrated how easy it is to open a Sentry Electronic Safe is less than 5 seconds with no damage or “Signs of Entry” for the Kitsilano Business Leaders Meetup.
To purchase an excellent UL Listed Burgulary and Fire Resistant Safe for home or business that can not be opened in seconds visit Mr. Locksmith Safes.
Terry Whin-Yates from Mr. Locksmith Open Safe Demo at the Kitilano Business Leaders Meetup
Terry Whin-Yates from Mr. Locksmith Open Safe Demo at the Kitilano Business Leaders Meetup
Terry Whin-Yates from Mr. Locksmith Open Safe Demo at the Kitilano Business Leaders Meetup
Terry Whin-Yates from Mr. Locksmith Open Safe Demo at the Kitilano Business Leaders Meetup
For Hands-on and On-line Locksmith Training go to Mr. Locksmith Training.
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Knowing What to Look For
Even a half-witted burglar knows to check medicine bottles for those diamond earrings, and scour through the sock and underwear drawer for more valuables. But he just might not bother going into the children’s bedrooms.
Even though the sun’s beginning to set, you insist on keeping your blinds up or curtains open to milk what little daylight is left to lighten up the room. Meanwhile, a savvy burglar is strolling about the neighborhood, catching glimpses through windows that he can see through because it’s dusk (let alone night time). This way he can pick easy looking targets or ones with visible valuables. Source: Huffingtonpost
Revealing Vacation Plans
Never reveal your vacation or business tip plans on your Facebook page. Don’t assume nobody could figure out your address just because it’s not on your page.
No errand is too short to leave the alarm system turned off. A burglar can invade your home and steal your valuables in a lot less time than it takes you to run the shortest errand. Products that you don’t have to arm, like the Schlage Touchscreen Deadbolt with a built-in alarm feature, can also help out when only stepping out for a short amount of time. Source: Robertsiciliano
Getting an Alarm System
I don’t want to be noticed. I want to walk in and out as quietly as possible. And to that point, Post the alarm security sign in your front yard. Save us both the time and trouble.
Keep valuables in a safe, and make sure that safe isn’t portable, or it’s coming with me. One of the first places I check is your sock drawer.
Lock doors and windows, even when you’re home. I can slip into an empty room any time. But not if I’m locked out. Source: Alarmrelay
Contact:
Mr. Locksmith
555 W. Hastings St
L21A
Vancouver BC V6B 4N4
Canada
Most Break-ins Occur at Night
A burglar will usually run away if the homeowner should come home or be inside the house. Home Invaders usually hit a home, at night or on weekends when someone is at home and security systems are deactivated. A home invasion is a situation where criminals will use force to get into a home with someone inside in order to rob or commit some other kind of crime. A home invasion is about gaining control of the home and the homeowner. Source: Bedgunsafe
Most Burglar Will Only Strike Once
Beware: It isn’t uncommon for a burglar to invade a home more than once. After all, they already know the layout of the house and have discovered where the “goodies” are kept. If you’re the victim of a break-in, get a home security ASAP to deter the bad guys from returning.
According to the FBI, the average dollar loss per burglary in the U.S. is $2,185. That amount far exceeds the cost of a basic home security system, and doesn’t include the emotional damage a break-in inflicts on your family. Plus, many insurance companies offer discounts on your homeowner’s policy when you have a home security system installed. When you couple the victim’s losses with criminal justice expenditures, a typical home invasion is estimated to cost nearly $20,000. Source: Safewise
Most Alarm Systems Are Expensive
If by expensive you mean less than $10 per month, then yes. There are many affordable options available for much less than you would think. Research the options and choose what works best for you and your family because money should never deter you from feeling safe and secure. Source: AlarmRelay
Making small changes to your daily mindset can pay big dividends in home invasion defense.
Contact:
Mr. Locksmith
555 W. Hastings St
L21A
Vancouver BC V6B 4N4
Canada
Below are 3 holiday safety tips to keep your home secure:
Secure All Doors and Windows
- Keep doors locked at all times. This is true even when you are home, and even when it’s light out.
- Keep your windows locked, even those on the second floor. Burglars DO have climbing skills.
- Use door reinforcements and top-flight locks.
- Keep the curtains and blinds closed. This will ensure that no one can take a peek at your valuables. Source: Robertsiciliano
Do Not Post your Holiday Travel Plans Online
Broadcasting the location or duration of your trip on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter can be dangerous. It may be something exciting you really want to share, but be aware that you are blatantly telling criminals, “I’m not home”. Source: Ackermansecurity
Install a Home Security System
Installing a monitored home security system offers a variety of benefits, not the least of which is it makes your home 300 percent less likely to be burglarized. Plus, many systems allow you to view real-time video of your home, right from your smartphone, tablet or other connected device, which can give you valuable peace of mind while travelling. Snow and holiday lawn ornaments can obstruct the view of your home security signs, so periodically check to be sure they are visible. Source: Safewise
Having a home security system is an effective defense against these risks; however additional precautionary methods are always encouraged to provide your home the highest level of protection.
Contact:
Mr. Locksmith
555 W. Hastings St
L21A
Vancouver BC V6B 4N4
Canada
Ross McLaughlin of CTV News “McLaughlin on Your Side” and Terry Whin-Yates from Mr. Locksmith demonstrtated a security flaw in a line of top selling Sentry safes makes them easy to break into. The issue is that the safes are not security safes but fire protection safes –something many people may not know.
CTV News tested two different fire SentrySafe models, SFW123GTF and SFW123FTC. Security expert Terry Whin-Yates demonstrated how easily they could be compromised, breaking into them in just a few seconds.
Top Selling Line of Sentry Safes can be Opened in 1.63 seconds!
Terry Whin-Yates highly recommends a fire-rated burglary-proof safe approved by Underwriter Laboratories (UL). This is a unique product which has been extensively trialled and is not only certified as break-in proof but also fire resistant.
http://mrlocksmith.com/safes/
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