Ensuring the security of your property is crucial, especially in areas like Manor Lakes, Lara and other suburbs of Wyndham Vale. Here’s a comprehensive guide on using locks effectively to prevent burglaries, the best efforts as residents can try to avoid:
Importance of Locks in Crime Prevention
Locks are your first line of defense against burglaries. They act as both a physical barrier and a psychological deterrent to potential intruders.
Types of Locks for Enhanced Security
- Deadbolts: Install high-quality deadbolts on all exterior doors. Look for those rated Grade 1 and or comply to Australian Standard Compliance
- Smart Locks: Consider smart locks that can be controlled remotely and provide access logs.
- Window Locks: Install sturdy locks on all windows, including those on upper floors.
- Sliding Door Locks: Use specialized locks for sliding doors, such as loop locks or security bars.
Also, its equally important to change locks in certain situations to maintain security:
- New Property: Always change locks when moving into a new property, whether it’s a rental or a purchase until its Brand New by builder build specific for you as First Homeowner.
- Tenant Turnover: For landlords, change locks between tenants to ensure previous occupants can’t access the property.
- Lost Keys: If keys are lost or stolen, replace the locks immediately.
- After a Break-in: Change locks after any security breach, even if unsuccessful.
Additional Security Measures
– Key Control: Limit the number of keys and keep track of all copies.
– Reinforced Door Frames: Strengthen door frames to prevent forced entry.
– Security Cameras: Install visible security cameras as an additional deterrent.
– Lighting: Use motion-sensor lights around entry points.
Why is professional locks installation important?
While some lock changes can be DIY, consider professional installation for complex systems or if you’re unsure. A locksmith Manor Lakes can ensure proper installation and provide advice on the best security solutions for your specific property.
Remember, a comprehensive approach to security that includes quality locks, regular maintenance, and good security habits is key to preventing burglaries in Manor Lakes and Suburbs of Wyndham Vale.
Absolutely! Securing your home with a combination of lock types is a smart strategy, as it addresses multiple points of vulnerability. Here’s a deeper dive into the strengths and weaknesses of common lock styles and how they can be combined for optimal protection:
1. Deadbolt Locks
- Strengths: Deadbolts are one of the most reliable and commonly used types of locks. They provide strong protection by securing the door with a heavy-duty bolt that extends into the door frame. Most burglars avoid homes with deadbolts because they’re time-consuming and difficult to bypass.
- Weaknesses: Standard deadbolts can be vulnerable to force, such as from a kick or pry bar. Also, cheap or poorly installed deadbolts may not hold up as well.
- How to Combine: Pair a deadbolt with a reinforced strike plate and long screws to increase the strength of the lock. Additionally, consider a high-security deadbolt to further resist picking or drilling.
2. Smart Locks
- Strengths: Smart locks offer convenience, keyless entry, and enhanced security features like remote access, temporary codes, and real-time monitoring. With many models, you can track who enters and exits your home, providing an extra layer of surveillance.
- Weaknesses: These locks rely on electricity, so if the power goes out or the batteries run low, you may not be able to unlock them. Also, if someone gains access to your phone or Wi-Fi network, they could potentially compromise the lock.
- How to Combine: Use a smart lock on the main entry door for added convenience, but pair it with a physical deadbolt or keypad lock for an additional backup if the smart lock fails.
3. Keypad/Touchpad Locks
- Strengths: These locks don’t require physical keys, reducing the risk of lost or stolen keys. You can create unique codes for each family member, and some models allow you to set temporary codes for visitors or service personnel.
- Weaknesses: If someone observes you entering the code or if the system is hacked, they could gain access. Codes can also be vulnerable if they’re not changed regularly.
- How to Combine: Use a keypad lock in conjunction with a deadbolt for enhanced security. If you have multiple entry points (such as a garage or back door), consider using keypads in those locations as well to avoid fumbling for keys.
4. Sliding Door Locks
- Strengths: Sliding doors are often an easier target for burglars, but specialized sliding door locks can make them much more secure. These locks often include a metal bar or bolt to prevent sliding doors from being forced open.
- Weaknesses: Sliding doors are generally more vulnerable than traditional hinged doors. Even reinforced locks can be bypassed if the door track is not secure.
- How to Combine: Use sliding door locks along with security bars or a blocking device that prevents the door from sliding at all. You can also install motion sensors or cameras near sliding doors to monitor for any suspicious activity.
5. Chain Locks
- Strengths: Chain locks can add an extra layer of protection by limiting how far the door opens. This is particularly useful for deterring burglars trying to break in through the front door.
- Weaknesses: They can be easily bypassed by force, such as if someone kicks or pries at the door. Chains are generally more of a psychological deterrent than a physical barrier.
- How to Combine: Use a chain lock in combination with a deadbolt to reinforce the door. This way, if someone tries to force the door open, they’ll be met with multiple obstacles.
6. High-Security Locks
- Strengths: High-security locks are designed to resist picking, bumping, and drilling. These locks usually come with special features like anti-drill pins, hardened steel bolts, and unique key designs that are hard to replicate.
- Weaknesses: While they’re much harder to bypass than regular locks, they tend to be more expensive and may require professional installation.
- How to Combine: Install high-security locks on all main entry points, especially if you live in a high-crime area. You can pair them with smart locks for convenience, or use them alongside traditional deadbolts for extra strength.
7. Security Bars & Reinforced Hardware
- Strengths: Security bars and reinforced hardware (such as strike plates, hinges, and screws) can make even the most basic lock more effective. Security bars prevent burglars from forcing doors or windows open.
- Weaknesses: Security bars can be inconvenient for quick exits in emergencies and may affect the aesthetics of your home.
- How to Combine: Install security bars on windows and doors along with your lock systems for added protection. Reinforced strike plates and long screws should also be added to increase the strength of the door frame and prevent it from being forced open.
8. Double Cylinder Locks
- Strengths: Double cylinder locks require a key on both the inside and outside of the door to lock and unlock it. This can prevent burglars from simply breaking a window and reaching inside to unlock the door.
- Weaknesses: The downside is that you can’t quickly exit the house in case of an emergency without the key. Also, double cylinder locks can be difficult to use in emergency situations.
- How to Combine: Double cylinder locks can be used in conjunction with deadbolts for doors with windows or glass panels nearby. Just be cautious about the potential for blocking escape routes.
Conclusion: Combining Lock Styles for Maximum Protection
To truly secure your home, combining several lock styles is key. For example:
- Main Entry Door: Combine a deadbolt with a smart lock and reinforced strike plate.
- Sliding Doors: Use sliding door locks with security bars and a motion detector.
- Side/Back Doors: Pair a keypad lock with a high-security lock and reinforced hardware.
- Windows: Use window locks along with security bars to prevent forced entry.
By using a combination of lock styles, you add multiple layers of security that make it much more difficult for burglars to break in. This layered approach helps protect your home and your family more effectively.
