What to Do In Different Lockout Situations

Emergency Locksmith

“I can’t get into my home because I can’t find my key. What am I supposed to do?”

“My car key is locked inside my car, right in front of me! How can I get inside without breaking a window?”

“I just arrived to my office but can’t find my key. Can someone get me inside?”

If these are questions that have come up, then you have come to the right place. Whether you are facing an auto, residential, or commercial lockout, there is a solution for you. The solution might be easier than you think, too. In some cases, you are going to need a locksmith to help you during a lockout, but this isn’t necessarily the only option. Here, you can find information on what to do in different lockout scenarios.

Of course, in terms of a lockout, each situation is different. We will discuss auto, commercial and residential lockouts so that you have a better idea of how to handle each situation, but keep in mind that some steps apply to any lockout.

Auto Lockout Tips

Car lockouts are quite common. Perhaps you have AAA and can get in this way. But for many, they don’t even consider using a service like AAA until something goes wrong. Then, they realize that they should have gotten a service like this. One thing we recommend doing is checking the passenger door or a back door to make sure that it is not unlocked. In some cases you might think you are locked out but then realize that another door was open the entire time. Does someone have a spare transponder key? This is another question to ask. While having roadside assistance that covers lockouts is great, some don’t have this. So if you tried another door, called but couldn’t reach the person with your spare key, and don’t have roadside assistance covering lockouts, try a locksmith.

Apartment Lockout Tips

Maybe you reside in a rental unit. In this case, you might actually have some luck if you get locked out. Perhaps, the person who lives right next door to you or someone else in your building has a key that you trusted them with. Or maybe you have a 24/7 number you can call in the event that something like this ever happens. Perhaps you have a roommate that has a key and can get you in. Whether you opt to use emergency maintenance or have the option of going over to the front desk at your leasing office, apartment lockouts can be resolved without calling a locksmith. But if your community doesn’t have an option you can use, maybe because it’s the middle of the night, give a local locksmith a call.

Single Family Home Lockout Tips

These tips are somewhat similar to the ones provided above for renters. In addition to trying a neighbor who might have a copy of your key, always double check other doors. Maybe your patio door was left unlocked, for example, even if this was not done intentionally. If need be, have a local locksmith come out.

Business Property Lockout Tips

Locked out of the place you work? Whether this is a dream come true (we are joking, of course) or a very stressful situation, there are options. For example, if you are not the only one who has a copy of the key, see if someone else is available who can get you in. If this isn’t an option, you might have to reach out to a locksmith.

Prevent Lockouts/Be Prepared

Here are some steps to take to try to avoid another lockout…

Have a Locksmith in Mind. Do your research in advance so if a situation comes up, you have a locksmith in mind already. Doing your research in advance can mean the difference between having someone in mind who is insured and licensed versus having someone come to you who isn’t necessarily covered. You also want to make sure you have access to 24/7 emergency services. Checking feedback from other customers is a good idea, too.

Here’s how to stop a lockout…

Keyless Entry System Installation – Invest in a keyless entry system! If you only have to have a code in mind, you can avoid lockouts because all you have to do is enter the right code and if you forget it, you can call someone you trusted with the code. A locksmith can help you to go keyless.

Have a Key Copy – Make sure to have a copy of your key made. This is completely affordable and absolutely worth doing. You might want to do this so you are prepared in the event of an emergency, anyway. For example, maybe your car breaks down and you can’t get home for a few hours, but you have a dog at home that needs to be taken outside and fed. If a trusted neighbor or friend has a copy of your key, not only can they help in a situation like this, but they can help you to avoid being locked out.

If you found yourself asking, “How can I get back inside my house when I can’t find my key?” or anything similar to this, then we hope you have found the provided information to be useful. The solution might be easier than you think, at least, this might be your thought process after reading the provided information. In certain conditions, you are going to require the aid of an expert, such as a locksmith to help you during a lockout. But other scenarios can be resolved by following the provided steps.

Getting locked out is a problem, and whether you are here because it happened to you or someone you care about, you know that it can be very nerve-wracking. But now you have the information you need to better handle different lockout situations and you even know steps to take to avoid lockouts in the first place. Just don’t forget that qualified, specialized local locksmiths offer lockout help!

Article Source: Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC

How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Locks?

 

A lot of times it’s natural for people to take their locks for granted. After all, people are surrounded by so many of them they don’t even notice them after a while unless they are using them. That’s not always a good thing. Why you might ask? The answer is because it’s important to take a close look at your locks from time to time. That way you will know if it’s time to change any of your locks because they seem old and worn. When are other times you should consider changing one or more of your locks? That’s exactly what I will go over with you in this article. Perfect Reasons to Replace a Lock

These are some very good reasons to change or update the locks at your home, business or on your car.

• When a lock is malfunctioning or has stopped working

  The most obvious reason to change one of the locks at your home, business or on your car is if a lock stops working or is working very poorly. You will have no choice but to repair or replace that lock if this is the situation. This is something you never want to put off or take chances with either. When you have an improperly working lock it needs to be taken care of right away. If not, that lock then compromises the security of you, your family, and your valuables.

• Your locks are showing visible signs of wear

  If your locks are getting rusty, starting to work hard or showing signs of wear and tear, it may just be time to get them changed out. Chances are they will fail totally in the near future anyway. So why not be proactive and get these worn looking locks changed out before they hurt the overall security at your business, residence or with your car.

• When lock upgrades are available

  There is can be no second guessing when it comes to the safety and security of your home, car or at your business. If there are lock upgrades that are available and you can afford them, then by all means, you should go ahead and get those lock changes done.

  Here are some examples of lock upgrades that exist that many people do not know about.

  • Sidewinder locks

    These are advanced locks for automobile doors and ignitions. They are cut in such a way that these locks are very difficult to defeat.

  • Improved window locks

    Many people feel very safe when their windows are closed and their factory installed window locks are protecting them. This is often not the case. Luckily, improved window locks are readily available from lock professionals.

  • Bump-proof locks

    Over the years would-be thieves developed ways to get easily into homes by doing what is called ‘bumping the lock’. Since then locks have been developed that prevent this from being able to be done.

• For convenience reasons

  Some people get their locks changed out because it makes things more convenient for them. Examples of reasons people do this are to get such conveniences as remote entry and starting for their car. Keyless entry locks are another example of locks that people often install at their homes, businesses, and on their cars for convenience.

• After a burglary

  There is nothing written in stone that says a burglar will not strike again at your home after they stole some things from you the first time. This is especially true if they lifted a set of spare keys from you in the first burglary. So it’s best not to take chances after a break-in. Be sure to get your entryway locks and other important access locks remastered or replaced.

• When you have lost your keys

  Simply replacing your keys is not enough after you have lost them. Your safety and security may be compromised if somebody with bad intentions finds those keys and knows what they go to. In this case, it’s much cheaper to have entry locks changed or remastered than it is to replace valuable stolen items from your home, car or business.

• After you move into a new home

  Why change the locks or at least get them remastered after you have moved into a new home. The reason for this is you never know who was in possession of keys or codes for the locks at that home before you bought. The fact remains some people are just too trusting in this world. The previous owner may have loaned or given keys to such people as the yard guy, the pet sitter, the babysitter or any number of relatives or friends. If that’s the case, then that means a lot of people you do not know may have a set of keys to your new home.

Keep It Simple, Get a Professional Lock Evaluation

What’s the absolute best way to know when it’s time to change some locks on your car or at your home or business. The answer is to get the opinion of a pro. There is no better professional to help you out with this than a well-trained locksmith. They are very familiar with what the warning signs are of a lock that’s going bad. They also know what newer types of locks that offer better security are available in the marketplace.

Best of all, many locksmith service providers like out of Atlanta, Georgia will offer free or low-cost residential and commercial lock evaluations. During this detailed lock inspection, a seasoned locksmith in Atlanta will look at all of your home or business locks. They will then go over with you which of your locks they feel need to be repaired, replaced or upgraded. There is absolutely no better way than this to tell if any of your locks need replacing.

So don’t take chances with your all-important locks. Call your local locksmith and get a professional opinion as to what locks need to be changed at your home, business or in your automobile. 

Article Source:  How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Locks?

Article source here: How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Locks?

Transponder Key Problems & Solutions

 

Many of us who drive today use a transponder key. It is the newest way of driving our vehicle that offers us convenience that many of us never thought possible. As nice as it is to use a transponder key that allows us to open our car door and start the engine, all without putting a key into the car, it comes with its fair share of problems. You can actually stand wherever you are and just aim your key at the car in order to get it going. This is genius! However, since this type of key is mechanical, you might experience a problem every now and then.

Your transponder key has a chip inside of it. Every chip corresponds to your vehicle only, which means that it is programmed to operate just your vehicle. You can’t use your transponder key to operate any other vehicle. Having this type of technology makes it very hard for your vehicle to be stolen. This is what the transponder key was designed to do, prevent auto theft. Since it is such a useful piece of technology, many auto manufacturers are designing their vehicles so that they will only operate with a transponder key.

How to Deal With Transponder Key Issues

When you have trouble starting your vehicle or unlocking the locks, this could indicate a problem with your transponder key. This problem will defeat the purpose of having this type of key. In most instances, this is a relatively easy thing to fix. All that you have to do is have the key reprogrammed by a qualified locksmith. A locksmith will be able to come to wherever you are to take care of the problem for you on the spot. They have the know-how and the right tools needed to handle your transponder key problems. There are, however, some locksmiths who have not yet invested in the equipment needed to assist with your transponder key needs. This is why it is important to let the locksmith service that you contact know that you have this type of key, so that they will bring the necessary tools needed to address your transponder key issues.

Another problem that we often see is that those who have a transponder key don’t realize that the small chip is actually necessary to operate their vehicle. They often think that it is a battery. Therefore, if they have a key that has been dropped, over and over again, they will just patch it up with some tape until it eventually falls out. The problem is that it is not a battery that you can just replace. It is the chip that programs your key to operate your vehicle. If you lose it then you’ll need another chip and it will have to be programmed again. Once the locksmith has correctly inserted the chip and reprogrammed it again, the vehicle will begin to operate again. The one thing that you don’t want to do is call an auto dealership or mechanic to take care of this for you. They will usually charge you more than is necessary. This is often because they have overhead expenses that they need to take care of and unfortunately, they are not willing to pass the savings on to you. You will foot the bill for their overhead expenses, whether you know it or not.

If you lose your key then this would present a serious problem for the motorist. If you physically lose your key and someone else happens upon it, they will have access to your vehicle. As long as a thief has the key in their possession, they could steal your vehicle. While it isn’t easy to hotwire a vehicle, it is no problem for them to drive off with your vehicle when they have the keys in their hands.

Get Ready!

The best way to avoid this problem is to get ready for the possibility. Whether it is losing your key or the chip inside, you can do something to prepare for this if it happens. What we suggest is that you have a spare transponder key. This might sound logical but what you do not realize is that not everyone actually has a spare key. They are more expensive than a standard key, which is one reason why they may not purchase a second key. However, be advised that you can usually negotiate another key at the time of purchasing your vehicle. The dealership will do all sorts of things to get you to buy a vehicle. They will try to entice you by offering you things that won’t really cost them very much. When they offer you something just ask them if you can get another transponder key instead. In most cases, they are happy to oblige you if it will guarantee them that you will buy a vehicle.

If you do not negotiate a transponder key at the time of purchasing your vehicle then chances are that you will be expected to pay a premium. However, if you do not negotiate during the time of purchase then you can purchase a transponder key online at Amazon or eBay. In either case, you’ll want to make sure that you are purchasing the key from a reputable seller. Check the sellers ratings to make sure that they sell reliable keys that are free of defects. Once you have purchased your new transponder key, then take it to a dealership to have it programmed. This will save you far more money than if you were to purchase directly from the dealership. Take it from someone who knows! You can enjoy your transponder key when you know what to expect.

Source: Transponder Key Problems & Solutions

Article source here: Transponder Key Problems & Solutions

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At Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC we are here to take care of all your residential lock needs. That includes any Atlanta, Georgia home lock repair or installation work that you require us to do for you. There is no residential lock issue that we can’t efficiently resolve for you. 

By calling us at (678) 543-9131 you can get a home locksmith service appointment scheduled or ask for emergency residential lock help from us. Call Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC at (678) 543-9131 for a lock quote or visit our website at locksmithofatlanta.co to learn more about our Atlanta residential locksmith services.

Article source here: Get the Best Security Upgrade for your Home! Watch This Video!

Get the Best Automotive Locksmith in Atlanta, GA! Watch our Video!

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At Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC we are here for you whenever you have any Atlanta, Georgia Automotive locksmith needs. Our talented auto locksmiths are experts when it comes to doing vehicle lock installations and repairs. You can even call us 24-hours a day at (678) 543-9131 to get emergency car locksmith assistance. 

We do everything from auto lockouts to ignition cylinder lock changes. So call Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC at (678) 543-9131 for a free auto lock service quote. You can also visit our website at locksmithofatlanta.co to learn more about our quality Atlanta, GA automotive locksmith services.

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Panic Bars – Importance in Commercial Properties

If you’ve started looking into panic bars, you might have come across devices like the Aluminum Fire Rated Touch Bar Exit Device, or the Aluminum Rim Panic Device that comes with a Standard Pull and Cylinder, or even the Horizontal Exit Device with a Keyed Trim Lever made by LIF Industries, Inc. – the point is, you will come across different options and you will see the panic bar called different names, such as an exit device, crash bar, panic bar, fire exit device and so on. These devices are very important, and here you are going to discover why this is the case. 

Panic bars are devices that you might have seen before in hospital settings, offices, campuses, and other businesses. A panic bar goes on the inside of a door. There are different styles for your convenience, so you can make the best decision for you or consult with a locksmith. You can get press style or even push style, for example. 

So let’s get into why having a panic bar is so important, and what exactly a panic bar does to help you. To start, when you have a panic device in place, you can get away from lifting anything heavy or needing to fumble around with the knob on your door or the door’s handle. This is useful because it can prevent trampling in the event that a group of people needs to get out of a building fast.

What Parts Make Up A Panic Bar?

So from reading before, you can see that a panic bar can be made with a standard pull and cylinder, keyed trim lever and so on – but in general, for them to do their job, they need a latching device and crossbar.

Panic Bars Can Be Mandatory As Per Local Codes

Do you know what the codes are in your area? We urge you to look into the National Fire Protection Association Code amongst other ones so you can be sure you are doing things correctly.

Know the Laws about Panic Bars

It might be the case that it is the law that you have a panic bar in your building. One way to figure out if they are mandatory is if you have a lot of people in and out of your property. What is the maximum capacity? Do you have a lot of people in and out every day? If so, you might need to have a panic bar. But even if it’s not required, you still should think about having one. It’s good to know that you are doing what you can to protect those who come in and out of your property. 

You have to be prepared in the event of an emergency situation, especially when you have a responsibility to protect others coming into your property. You have to think about if they would end up trampling each other to get out of your building if an emergency were to occur. One other thing you might want to consider is handicapped-accessibility. 

Crash bars are very significant if you are trying to better protect those who enter your property, because they allow a commercial building to be exited quickly in the event that a fast exit is needed. Another perk about panic bars is that having them can mean better insurance rates for you. This is something to check into. Who doesn’t like to save money or take advantage of discounts?

Panic Bars Are Undeniably Important

Now that you recognize that panic devices are imperative for reasons such as they let persons exit a building promptly if needed, and can save lives by helping people to avoid crowding and trampling, talk to a locksmith about having one installed or picking the best one for you. Your device can also be connected to an alarm system, and this might be something you are interested in. 

Yes, a panic device is important, and it is equally as important that you have yours installed correctly. This is why you should reach out to a locksmith who knows what they are doing. If you are in our service area, we are licensed and insured to do the job, as these are important qualities to check into any lock and security provider you are hiring. 

These are just some things to think about if you are starting to wonder about the importance of having a panic device for your property. If you think you might want a panic bar, and you happen to be in our service area, call us. We are Locksmith of Atlanta, LLCin Atlanta, Georgia and our goal is to make sure that locals have everything they need to secure their properties. Our team offers reasonably priced locksmith solutions for your convenience so you can obtain the security that you need. 

There are so many different brands if you are looking into panic bars. You saw some earlier in this article, but other popular names include Arrow and Yale. You have so many options and this is a great thing. Taking the right steps with regard to security can make a huge difference in terms of protection. If a mass exit were to be needed for your property, perhaps due to a fire or another emergency, having a panic bar in place could literally save lives. You can never know what could happen. Things certainly happen without warning and we can’t always know they will happen, but we can do our best to be prepared. Panic bars are devices that allow you to be prepared. 

Get a free consultation and price estimate for this service by contacting our team of experts if you are in our service area. But know that you can pull up a locksmith in your location by doing a search on Google – look for businesses who are insured and licensed. We are glad you have an interest in panic bars and hope this information has helped you!

Article source here: Panic Bars – Importance in Commercial Properties

How to Install a Lockset

BY WALTER CURTIS

Image Source: cdn.hswstatic.com

Once you’ve hung a new door, you need to fit it with a lockset.

Some doors come predrilled for standard-size locksets. Other doors require you to drill the holes yourself, using a template provided by the lock manufacturer. With any door, you need to cut mortises, or holes, in the door edge for the lockset and in the frame for the strike plate that engages the lock’s bolt.

What You’ll Need

Here are the tools you’ll want to have on hand to install a lockset:

• Lockset
• Tape
• Pencil
• Power drill with hole-saw attachment
• Combination square
• Sandpaper
• Chisel
• Screwdriver

Here’s how to install a lockset:

Step 1: Wrap the paper or cardboard template that comes with the new lockset around the edge of the door according to manufacturer’s instructions. If necessary, use tape to secure the template. Template will be used to locate two holes: one hole for lock cylinder and the other for edge of door for bolt. Mark centers for these two holes on door.

Step 2: Use a power drill with hole-saw attachment to drill hole the size specified for lock cylinder. Be careful not to damage the veneer on the opposite side of door. When you see the point of the drill coming through, stop and finish boring from other side.

Step 3: Drill a hole the appropriate size for the bolt into the edge of door until you reach the cylinder hole. Use the combination square against the edge of the door and the drill bit to keep the bit at a right angle to the door. Smooth edges of holes with sandpaper.

Step 4: Insert the bolt into the hole, and place the bolt plate in position over it. Trace the bolt plate’s outline on the edge of door. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove the bolt and mortise edge for the bolt plate so it will be flush with the surface.

Step 5: Use a chisel to cut the mortise. Insert the bolt and plate in the mortise, and drill the pilot holes for mounting screws. Install the screws to secure the bolt in place.

Step 6: Insert the outside lock cylinder so the stems or connecting bar fits into the bolt assembly. Attach the interior lock cylinder, and secure it with the screws.

Image Source: resize.hswstatic.com

Step 7: Locate the proper spot for the strike plate on the jamb, and drill the proper-size hole in the jamb. Using the strike plate as a pattern, mark the jamb for mortising, and cut the mortise. Install the strike plate with screws so it fits flush with the jamb.

©Publications International, Ltd.

Article Source: How to Install a Lockset

Related Article: What is Lock Bumping? Break-In Prevention & Apartment Security Tips!

If you need help with lock repair or installation, contact the professionals at www.locksmithofatlanta.co

Keyless entry system repairs in Atlanta, GA

“Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC, a reputable Atlanta locksmith company is proud to be the number one choice for affordable locksmith solutions. We are a business that makes things safer and easier here in Atlanta, GA. We provide a wide range of lock and key services for residential and commercial properties, and of course automotive customers, too.

Our locksmiths can install panic bars, install new locks on your doors and windows, provide you with smart keys, duplicate car and home keys, duplicate transponder keys, repair high security sidewinders, provide combination changes, install security systems and intercom systems, and so much more. No matter what you need, when it is lock and key related, Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC has you covered.

We are available 24/7, so Atlanta residents can reach us at any time of day or night – even on holidays and weekends. Our locksmiths offer quality service at the most affordable rates. What we quote is what you can expect to pay, and there are never hidden fees with us. We have received many positive reviews from satisfied customers because we offer a satisfaction guarantee.

We work with all of your favorite lock brands, too, like Kaba, Mul-T-Lock, Schlage, Medeco, Arrow, Yale and more. We are always ready to assist you in Atlanta GA. We are an Atlanta locksmith company that is proud to offer free consultations and free price quotes. Don’t hesitate to call us if you need a locksmith in Atlanta. We are here to help you, so choose Locksmith of Atlanta, LLC. Call now.”