How to Choose a Commercial Safe for Your Office

Choosing the right safe for your office isn't always easy. A commercial safe needs to offer plenty of features to ensure you can keep your valuables protected. In addition, it has to offer you peace of mind when it comes to the security of running your business.

Not all commercial safes are the same. Many commercial safes offer similar features, but some will give you an extra level of security when added to your office. Here are some of the things to consider when choosing a commercial safe for your office.

Full Protection

Choosing the safe that will give you full protection should be first on the list. Consider what you will be keeping in the safe and choose a safe with the best features to protect your items.

You may need a torch resistant or tool resistant safe to ensure your belonging are protected from intruders.

In addition, you may need a specific type of safe for specific reasons. For example, a retail store may need a drop safe or a deposit safe to ensure employees can make drops without opening the safe. Others may prefer an office safe with a high fire rating.

Location

The location of your office safe should be a factor, as well. Will you be keeping it under a desk, in a wall, in the floor, or in another location? This can impact the type of safe you choose.

Some safes are specifically designed to be kept in the floor, while others fit better under a desk or in the wall. It depends on what you need and the space you have for the safe.

Size

Depending on what you may be keeping in the safe, you may need a larger or smaller safe. Size does matter as choosing the right size can be difficult. For most businesses, you want a safe large enough that someone cannot easily pick it up and walk off with it. However, if you get something too large, it could become a nuisance. Contact The Professional Locksmith today and find out what safe is right for your specific needs!

Choosing the right size may depend on where you plan to keep the safe, as well. Consider the location of the safe, along with the things you plan to keep in it before you make a decision on the size.

Security Level

Of course, you want the best protection possible, but you may not need a high security safe if your budget won't allow for one. However, if you need a high security safe, you will likely spend more, but you will have a safe with a high fire rating, drill prevention, and many other great security features.

Choosing the right commercial safe for your office can be difficult. The size, location, security level, and protection you need will make a pretty big difference when looking at the options.

Take your time and compare a few safes before choosing. It may be a good idea to consult an expert to help you with the decision. An expert may also be able to install your new safe properly.

Rekey or Lock Replacement: Which is Right for You?

When you lose your key or it gets stolen, you have to decide if you want to rekey the lock or replace the lock. This is a bit of a big decision as they are similar options, but they could have a difference in the security of your home or building. Let's look at when you should rekey a lock and when you should replace a lock.

Rekey Your Lock if...

When you lose control over who has access to your business or home, you want to rekey your locks. This could be due to a staffing change or a renter moving out and another one moving in. If it's your personal home, it could be due to losing a key to your house.

As a business owner, you don't want an employee with a grudge getting into your business. If they have a key, they could vandalize your business, steal from you, or cause other damage to the business.

Another important time to consider rekeying your locks is when you lose a key. You never know who could have it and the last thing you need is the key ending up in the wrong hands. Whether you're a business owner or a homeowner, a lost key means it's time to rekey your locks.

The last circumstance when it makes sense to rekey your locks is when you have locks allowing you to easily rekey them by inserting a step change key. If you have these types of locks, it's usually much easier and quicker to rekey the locks than to replace them.

Change Your Locks if...

While most of the time rekeying is the better and less expensive option there are times when it's a good idea to change your locks. Whether you're running a business or you own a home, you may want to consider lock replacement in the following circumstances.

If the locks are worn out or outdated, it may be time to change them. Maybe you were considering rekeying due to a lost key, but the locks haven't been replaced in years. It may be better just to replace the locks in this circumstance as you may be able to upgrade for better security features with new locks.

The other circumstance that garners lock replacement instead of rekeying is upgrading your security system. If you plan to upgrade your security system, you don't want to be using old locks that don't provide the very best security features. It's better to upgrade to locks you can easily manage as a business or the most secure on the market if you own a home.

As a business owner, you can choose to replace your locks with a better system allowing you to manage all locks and keys. This can make it easier to deal with a lost or stolen key and help to protect your business.

The decision to rekey or replace isn't an easy one when it comes to your business or home locks. If you're not sure, a professional locksmith can inspect your locks and make a recommendation for your business or your home.

How to Choose the Right Intercom System for Your Security Needs

Whether choosing an intercom system for your commercial building or for your home, there are several things to consider. An intercom system can be used to enhance security and they come in several different types including wired and wireless intercom systems. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right intercom system for your security needs.

Wired or Wireless?

The first decision most homeowners or building owners will make is a wired or wireless intercom system. In some cases, you may not be able to use a wireless system. Wireless intercom systems don't work well for lower levels or basements in some buildings.

In the circumstances where a wireless system won't work, a wired intercom system is a great choice. This type of system will give you the opportunity to upgrade your security.

A wireless intercom system also gives you the ability to upgrade your security. It basically works as a two-way communications system with the ability to do more, if you prefer. A basic system can be upgraded to a DECT system, which will work a bit like a landline telephone. You can also add video to your intercom system.

Why Wireless May not be the Right Choice?

Sometimes wireless systems make sense, but sometimes, they don't. A wireless intercom system may be tampered with as it works a bit like a network of walkie-talkies. In addition, this type of system may be susceptible to eavesdropping and struggle from unreliable power.

A wireless intercom system can also have a limited range. It may be rather short range, which means it may not work for all buildings.

Why a Wired Intercom System May be a Great Choice?

A hardwired intercom system offers an intercom without nearly as many vulnerabilities as a wireless system. It cannot be tampered with in the same way and it won't have power issues, either. It's also a harder type of system to eavesdrop on, which makes it a bit more secure.

Making the Right Choice

While there are security concerns with a wireless system, you also don't have to worry about running wires all over your house or building to install this type of system. In addition, a wireless system makes it possible to move the units around, when necessary. It's also easy to add additional units.

Adding a wired unit when building a new building isn't as difficult as it is with an already existing building. However, it can still be done with the right intercom installation professionals to help you.

Should You Add Video?

A video intercom system can be even more secure as you can see the person paging. If your system will be used for entry into your property or home, it may be a good idea to have a video intercom system. With the right system, you'll be able to see the person trying to get in instead of just hearing their voice.

The security of your home or your building matters. Adding the right intercom system will help to upgrade your overall security. Just make sure you choose the right professionals to install your intercom system.

3 Common Repair Issues Found in Intercom Systems

Having a good intercom system is vital to some types of properties. For others, it's a nice convenience and can make life easier. However, intercom systems can often need repairs due to specific issues. There are some issues that are more common than others. Let's look at three of the most common repair issues found in intercom systems.

Static

It's not uncommon for an intercom system to end up with static from the microphone or the speaker. Static can be caused by many different parts of the audio equipment. Regular wear can cause static due to a bad connection. This could also cause the intercom to simply not create any sound. Usually, static is noticed before the intercom completely stops creating sound.

Any type of damage to your intercom system can cause static within the system. It could be caused due to a loose wire or a bad switch. Another common cause of static is interference. Even on a closed system, an intercom can experience static from interference.

The power connection can also be a source of static. Any problem with the power connection may cause static throughout the system. This could be a sight of a larger issue, too. Sometimes, a power overload or a shorting may cause static and if it's not repaired, it can cause major damage to the system. If you've noticed static within your intercom system, it's time to hire an intercom repair professional.

A Humming Noise

Another common issue with an intercom system is a humming noise heard when trying to use the system. This could be a sign of something worse and needs to be addressed immediately. It could be due to a faulty wire or connection and repair is necessary to keep the issue from getting worse.

While a humming sound may be annoying, some will just live with it and think very little of it. However, it could be a sign of something worse. When left unaddressed the issue may get worse and you may end up with an intercom system that doesn't work anymore.

Power Supply Failures

As stated above, static within your intercom system may be a sign of a larger problem. One of those larger issues is a power supply failure. When the power supply starts to go, it could cause other issues, such as static or even humming within the system.

Of course, if the power supply stops working, the intercom system will also stop working. Most intercom systems will show signs of the power supply going before it actually goes, however. Hearing more background noise may be another sign the power supply is starting to go.

The best way to address any intercom issue is to contact a professional intercom repair company. You want to choose a company with plenty of experience with your type of intercom system. Every system is a bit different and a huge part of fixing the issue is the proper diagnosis. The right repair company will be able to diagnose the problem and get it fixed quickly.

How a Security System Can Help You Save on Home Insurance Costs

Having a home security system installed offers a greater level of protection for your family and your home. Did you know it also helps you save on your home insurance rates every year?

Since a home burglary happens about every 18 seconds in the United States, according to Zacks, and the average property loss is $2,251 per incident, insurance companies offer discounts when you install a home security system to prevent this from happening.

How Much Can You Save?

The amount you will save on your home insurance depends on the type of alarm you have installed. The savings can be as much as 20%, which can really add up over time. The best way to ensure you get the highest discount is to make sure you have a home security system with central monitoring.

Multiple Savings With Multiple Protections

A home security system is just one piece of the puzzle. Just by adding this level of protection to your home, your homeowner’s insurance company will likely extend a discount. If you have the security system hooked up to central monitoring, that discount will likely go up.

In addition, when you add fire protection through monitored smoke alarms, you'll likely gain an even larger discount. This type of home security system will now protect you from fire, which could destroy your home rather quickly. Add in a sprinkler system and you'll get an even larger discount on your home insurance.

Another level of protection you can add, which may help to boost your discount is protection from carbon monoxide. With a CO detector installed and monitored as a part of your home security system, you'll have even more protection, which means your insurance company will likely extend a larger discount.

Finally, you can add in additional protections from busted pipes and other types of flooding for an even larger discount. All of these home protections can be monitored to ensure your home is as safe as possible, which keeps the insurance company very happy.

Less Risk of Cost Hikes Later

When you add a home security system you'll lower the risk of your insurance going up over time, as well. This can be a benefit that keeps paying you back every year as you could keep your insurance rates from going up.

Lower Theft Claim Quota

Another way a security system can help to lower your insurance rates is by lowering the theft claim quota. If you and your neighbors get home security systems, the total theft quota for your area may drop, which helps to save everybody money on their home insurance in the area.

There are many great reasons to have a home security system installed with full fire, carbon monoxide, and other protections. Getting a lower rate for home insurance is just one of the many reasons. However, it can help to pay for the system costs over time as your rates will become lower and you'll be less likely to see your homeowner's insurance rates go up as much over time.

What are the Added Benefits of a Full-Length Latch Guard?

Latch guards are often used as a part of passive security to help deter forcible entry. A full-length latch guard is longer than a traditional latch guard and provides many added security benefits.

Without any type of latch guard, your deadbolt or locking mechanism may be vulnerable to forcible entry. Adding a latch guard makes it harder for a criminal to break or pick the lock through the gap between the door and the frame.

The main function of a latch guard is to protect the latch or deadbolt from physical manipulation. It's an important part of your passive security and overall protection for your home or business. Here are a few benefits of using a full-length latch guard.

Better Overall Protection

When you choose a full-length latch guard it makes it even harder for criminals to break in with force or manipulation of your lock. Often, a latch guard is enough to help deter criminals from even trying.

It will become harder for anybody to use a lock pick, blunt object, pry bar or drill to get into your door when you choose a full-length latch guard. Storefronts often use these guard to keep the large gap in between the door and the jab from being exposed. With a small latch guard, it may still be possible to manipulate the lock. However, with a full-length latch guard, this becomes nearly impossible, making the door far more secure.

Visual Deterrent

For many criminals, if it looks too difficult to break into, they won't even bother. Using a full-length latch guard will help to deter criminal activity visually. This type of latch guard will make it look far more difficult to get into the door, which makes criminals think twice.

Work for Multiple Door Types

Whether you live in a condo building, house or you run a business; a full-length latch guard can be used to help protect your entry door. In addition, they can be used for outswing or inswing doors and there are several types of latch guarded to help protect just about any type of door.

Affordable Protection

One of the great benefits of a full-length latch guard is the low cost. It's a very affordable way to add an extra level of protection to any door. While these are not one-size-fits-all and it's a good idea to have a professional install your full-length latch guard, they do offer an affordable security solution.

Blend into the Look of Your Door

With multiple materials used to make latch guards, you can choose one that will blend into the overall look of your door. In fact, a full-length latch guard can easily compliment the other hardware on your door making it more secure and visually appealing.

There are several benefits you will gain from using a full-length latch guard. Choosing the right one makes a difference. It's best to have a professional look at your door and make a recommendation for the best possible security for your entryway.

How a Wrought Iron Gate Can Secure Your Building’s Perimeter

While wrought iron gates certainly add to the look of your home, they also add a feature for the security, as well. When you add a wrought iron gate to the entryway of your building, you add a level of security making it even more difficult for a burglar to get in.

Not only will these gates help to keep burglars out, but they can also set up a type of security you usually only get when you live in a condo building. Any visitors coming to the property will not be able to access your front door without first going through your gate. The gate can be set up to include a keypad to ensure nobody gets in without the code or an automatic gate opening device.

Intimidating to the Eye

Most burglars are scared away by the look of a property. A security sign deters more criminals than the actual alarm system because it's intimidating. In addition, a wrought iron gate provides one more level a burglar must conquer to get inside.

It's intimidating as the burglar has to try to climb it, trick it or find another way in. When set up correctly, a wrought iron gate will add a high level of security to the perimeter of your building.

The wrought iron is already intimidating as a material. It's not like chain link or another cheaper material that's easily cut or maneuvered to let someone in. Instead, it's solid, intimidating and hard to bypass.

Create a Complete System

The gate is just one part of the perimeter security system. You can match your wrought iron gate with a complete security fence to ensure your entire building perimeter is protected. Add in an automation kit and nobody can easily get in without your permission.

You can even choose a gate that's tall enough to become extra intimidating. Match this taller gate with a taller fence for even more security.

Add an Intercom

If you want to know who's at your gate before they get in, you can add an intercom. This can ensure you have to buzz them in just like in an apartment or condo building. You can find out who has arrived before they get past your gate and make the decision to let them in or leave them outside.

The best part about adding a wrought iron gate to your entryway is the many design options. You can fully customize your perimeter security to ensure it looks amazing, adds to the property and does the job of keeping unwanted guests away from your home.

When you choose a wrought iron gate for your entryway, you're communicating a clear message. It doesn't say everybody is welcome, but instead says, this property is well protected and only those invited will get in. This is a great way to ensure the security of your home and family. Plus, the gate can be customized to fit your specific tastes and style.

5 Apartment Security Tips for Renters

Apartment security is a very important topic in Chicago. With so many renters and owners living in apartment buildings, it's important to make sure you have the right security in your building. Here are five tips to help ensure your apartment remains secure.

Lock Doors and Windows

The first thing you want to make sure you always do is lock your door and windows. You don't want to make it easy for someone to break in. Most burglaries are the result of an unlocked window or door.

Even if all you're doing is leaving to get your mail or go enjoy the amenities, make sure you lock all doors and windows. It's also important to put a security bar in any sliding patio doors.

Upgrade your Locks

If your apartment building allows it, you can hire a professional locksmith to upgrade your locks. Instead of the typical knob lock and deadbolt, You can upgrade to a mortise lock or a double-cylinder deadbolt for more peace of mind.

Make sure you hire a professional locksmith to handle this job as you want it done right. It's also necessary to clear it with the landlord or manager first to ensure they know you plan to upgrade your lock.

Add Timer Lights or Motion Sensor Lights

If you have an outdoor light, you can add a motion sensor light to it and make your outdoor area more secure. If a motion sensor light isn't possible, you can still set up an outdoor light on a timer to ensure it comes on and goes off at the right time.

Turning your outdoor light on at night can be a good way to deter burglars from breaking in. If you're going out of town, it can be a good idea to leave a few lights on timers to make it appear like you're still at home.

Install a Security System

Another upgrade you will need to get permission from the landlord for, but a great way to secure your apartment is a camera security system. If your landlord will allow it, you can have a security system installed to keep you safe. Many of today's systems are wireless, which make them easier to install in apartments without having to drill holes in walls.

Use a Safety Deposit Box

If you have valuable items and documents, don't store them in your apartment. Instead, store these items in a safety deposit box to ensure they remain safe. Even if you get robbed, you want to make sure things, such as your Social Security card or a precious heirloom from your grandmother remain safe.

There are several ways to make sure your apartment security keeps you safe. The building should have already taken some precautions, such as installing the proper lighting and maybe even providing a gated or secure entrance. Don't believe that a secure entrance or a doorman will keep criminals out, however. Take your own precautions to ensure your apartment remains safe.

4 Tips to Secure Sliding Glass Doors in Your Home

An experienced burglar can get into your home through your sliding glass door in less than a minute. With more than 8 million property crimes happening every year, you should be aware of the entry points a burglar can get in through.

Securing your sliding glass doors will help to ensure your home is harder to break into. Of course, this should be just one of the steps you take in your full home security plan.

While your front door and your windows may be very secure, your sliding glass door may be lacking in this area. Here are four great tips to secure your sliding glass doors.

Install Additional Locks

Having a professional locksmith install additional locks is one of the best ways to secure your sliding glass doors. Yes, they do come with locks, but they are usually very simple latches that burglars can easily bypass. A heavy-duty latch guard made with hardened steel can be installed on both the bottom and the top of the sliding glass door to ensure it’s secure.

Add Window Film

Another way burglars get in through the sliding glass door is by breaking it. It's usually not too difficult to break, but it can also be easily secured with window film. Sure, you want to let in the natural light, but you also want to keep thing safe. Having a professional install the film means you can get the performance you want while letting in plenty of light.

With the right window film, you can make your sliding glass door shatterproof. This makes it much more difficult for a burglar to get in.

Add a Rod in the Tracks

Maybe the easiest way to add security to your sliding glass doors is with a rod in the tracks. A metal rod adds security and makes it harder to open the door. If you have a door with a metal rod, use it and the door will become far more secure.

If your sliding glass door doesn't already have a metal rod, you can add a wooden dowel from a local hardware store. This is a great way to keep your door secure.

Add Door Sensors

Another easy way to add protection to your sliding glass door is by using a glass break sensor on your door. This can be installed as a part of your home security system and the alarm will sound if the door is broken.

You can also add a door sensor to the actual door that will trigger the alarm if it's opened. With two sensors, you will have plenty of protection for your sliding glass door. You need both sensors to fully protect the door as one will sense the sound of broken glass, while the other will sense the door actually opening.

Use these four tips to make sure your sliding glass doors are all secured properly. Hiring the help of a professional locksmith and a home security professional will help to ensure you don't have to worry about burglars getting in through your sliding glass door.

Top 3 Benefits of Using a Mobile Locksmith Service

It's not uncommon for people to never think about a locksmith until they need one. Usually, this happens when you're stranded on the side of the road or in a parking long and your keys are dangling in the ignition of your car, but the doors are locked. This is the time when you start thinking about your locksmith needs.

When there's an emergency and you cannot get into your car, home or office, you need the best mobile locksmith service in Chicago. There are several significant benefits to a mobile locksmith service that you gain. Not only will they be able to help you any time of the day, but they also tend to respond very fast when you need them the most.

If you're in need of a locksmith, or you're just planning for the possibility of needing one in the future, it's important to understand the benefits of a mobile locksmith service. Here are three of the best benefits.

24/7 Availability

Emergencies happen at the wrong time of day. Maybe you don't normally stay out late, but you decided to one night. Of course, this would be the once in a blue moon time that you locked your keys in your car and you can't get home.

Mobile locksmith services in Chicago are available 24/7 making it possible to get the help you need, no matter the time of day or day of the week. You get the immediate help you need without any need to panic.

Fast Response Time

One of the biggest benefits of a mobile locksmith service is the fast response time. Since they are mobile, they are usually out and about on other jobs. This means they can quickly get to you without any issue. In fact, you may get lucky and they could be right down the road from you when you call.

A mobile locksmith can respond very quickly when you have an issue with your office keys, home keys or car keys. They will arrive as fast as possible to get your life back to normal.

Service All Locations

Since these locksmiths are mobile, they can service any location in Chicago. It doesn't matter where you're stranded, a mobile locksmith can help. With the ability to go wherever they are needed, these locksmiths are a bit like superheroes.

Along with these three major benefits, mobile locksmiths come with the right tools and they provide incredible professionalism. They have every tool they need to help you right in the vehicle they are driving. This means they don't have to go back to an office to make a key or to get the right part or tool.

When you call the right mobile locksmith service, you'll get a trained professional ready to handle your issue immediately. These are just a few of the many benefits you gain from a mobile locksmith. With the fast response times, 24/7 availability and ability to service all locations, you'll be back to normal in no time.