Author Archives: Locksmith Sarasota

5 Reasons You Need An Office Security System

If you are operating your business out of an office building, you have most likely thought about ways to keep your premises safe and secure. A security system is just as essential to running your business as selecting the right office equipment and furniture, and recruiting the right team members. Without it, you are opening the door to safety issues, vandalism, and break-ins.

5 Reasons You Need An Office Security System

5 Reasons Your Office Needs A Security System

Discover five important reasons why your business needs an office security system.

1. You Will Save On Insurance Costs

Your insurance company will likely quote you a lower cost on your premium rates if you have a security system installed on your property. Adding this feature equates to lowering the likelihood of becoming a crime statistic, which means you can qualify for better insurance policy pricing.

2. It’s Economical

A security system is a more economical choice than hiring a security guard or two to protect your business since it can monitor the entire building at once and run on a 24/7 basis.

3. It Is A Deterrent To Would-Be Thieves

Anyone who is thinking of breaking into your office will likely want to get in and get out with as little fuss as possible. If you have a visible security system in place, you may make a burglar think twice before targeting your business and building.

4. Your Employees Will Feel More Comfortable On The Premises

Do you ever have employees working in the early morning or late evening or even coming in when the office is typically closed? Having a security system in place means your employees will feel more secure when they are working outside of usual business hours, which can protect both you and them.

5. It Gives You Peace Of Mind

Running a business has enough stress of its own. You don’t need the additional worry about security. Installing a security system helps give you peace of mind in so many areas.

Isn’t it time that you installed a security system?

Commercial Security System Sarasota

Commercial Security System Experts

Locksmith Sarasota is the experts on commercial security and surveillance systems as well as residential, high-security commercial door locks, re-keying, lock repair and much more.

For information about business security options or to get a quote for a new security system in Sarasota, contact us today!

Steps To Choose The Right Door Lock For Your Home

This entry was posted in Locks, Residential and tagged on by .

Steps To Choose The Right Door Lock For Your HomeIf you are in the market for new door locks for your home, you have a couple of options for where you can purchase them. You can either visit a hardware or a big box retailer and go the DIY route, or you can call a professional locksmith.

Hardware Stores vs. An Experienced Locksmith

 

An experienced and licensed locksmith provides the knowledge and understanding of which lock option will work best for your home and your specific preferences. They can also work with you to ensure you’re getting the best product for your budget.

While hardware stores and big box retailers are wonderful for a number of products, they are probably not the best choice when you are purchasing house door locks. You are choosing a product that is going to keep you, your family and your property safe and secure, and you don’t want to leave anything to chance.

What You Need To Know To Find The Right Lock For Your Home

 

In order to find the right door locks for your home, you need to consider a number of factors (and none of them involve which one “looks right” when you are examining the product through the packaging):

  • Type of material the door is made from (wood, steel or fiberglass)
  • Quality of materials used to construct the door frame
  • Level of key security you want
  • Any insurance requirements
  • Your personal desired security level

 

Not all door locks are created equal and what may be perfect for one homeowner, may not be for the next. You’ll want to make sure you are installing the right door lock that can give you the level of security you are looking for and that will also be effective with the existing door frame.

Your best bet is to get advice from an expert in home security locks before you make a decision on your purchase. A locksmith is a trained professional who will listen to your needs and recommend the right solution for you.

With a residential locksmith, you can be rest assured that your new door lock will be expertly installed to your specifications. We can also replace and upgrade locks on sliding doors and patio doors. If your current locks are wearing down or you are interested in upgrading your door hardware, call Locksmith Sarasota today!

Learn More About Our Security Lock Services Here

What Are Transponder Keys?

This entry was posted in Automotive, Keys and tagged , on by .

What Are Transponder Keys for Your VehicleIf you are driving a newer model car, it likely came equipped with a transponder key. These keys are different from older models, since they are equipped with an RF transmitter. There is a small receiver located near the ignition switch on your vehicle. Once you insert the key into the ignition, it transmits a low-frequency signal to your vehicle.

Why Manufacturers Equip Keys With Transponders

The transponder is a security measure put in place to help prevent cars from being hotwired and stolen. The car won’t start unless it detects the correct signal from the key. A copied key without the right signal will not start the car, either.

How To Tell If You Have A Transponder Key

One way to tell whether your key is a transponder key is to examine it closely. If the plastic part of the key is considerably thicker than the metal part of the key, you likely have a key with a transponder.

Another strategy to determine whether you have a transponder key is to contact your dealer and inquire about the cost to replace it. You’ll need to provide your vehicle’s VIN number when you call. If the dealer quotes you a nominal amount, then you probably don’t have a transponder key. On the other hand, if you are quoted a number that could be as high as a few hundred dollars, then you have a key with a transponder.

What If I Lock My Transponder Key In My Vehicle?

This situation happens more often than you realize. Contact a Sarasota, FL auto locksmith immediately for assistance. At Locksmith Sarasota, we know how stressful this situation can be and will get to your location straight away.

Our experienced technicians have the training necessary to open any vehicle without causing damage. We are a full-service automotive locksmith company that will have the right tools and equipment available to help you on the spot.

We offer affordable mobile locksmith services and your satisfaction is guaranteed. If you lock your keys in your car, break a key in the ignition, need jumper cables, or a new key made, contact us – your Sarasota Florida auto locksmith service.

See Simple Tips To Prevent Locking Your Keys In Your Car

Easy Tips To Prevent A Car Lockout

Tips To Prevent Locking Keys In Car-LocksmithSarasota.orgFew things are more frustrating than locking yourself out of your car. It never seems to happen at a convenient time or in a convenient place. You will probably be rushing to get somewhere, which will only increase your stress level.

Here are a few easy ways to prevent car lockouts, and the frustrations that come with it. However, if you do end up getting locked out of your vehicle, Locksmith Sarasota is available 24/7 to come to your rescue!

Tips To Prevent A Car Lockout

Check out these simple and effective tips that anyone can do to prevent locking their keys in the vehicle:

Never Lay Keys Down Inside Car – Immediately Put In Pocket, Purse Or Hand

One of the most common reasons for a lockout is locking the keys in the trunk. You put the keys down to rummage around and when you find what you are looking for, you forget to pick up the keys before you close the trunk. This is easy to avoid if you make a point of putting your keys in your pocket or keeping them in your hand when searching for something in the trunk.

Many modern vehicles have sophisticated electronic systems that make it difficult, if not impossible, to lock the keys inside the car. That does not mean it never happens. Resist the urge to place the keys on the seat because you may not see them when you exit the car. Keep your keys on a brightly colored or heavy key chain so they are easy to notice. Get in the habit of placing your keys in your pocket or purse immediately after removing them from the ignition.

Check Car And Replace Key Fob Batteries Periodically

Something as simple as a dead battery in the car or its remote key system can cause a lockout. Check the batteries periodically and replace them when necessary to eliminate having this preventable problem occur.

Have A Set Of Spare Keys

Hiding a spare key on the outside of a vehicle is risky because car thieves know about all the best hiding places. You should however, keep at least one set of spare keys in a convenient location. You can leave a set of keys at work, store a set in your house or even leave a set with a friend, family member or neighbor.

Skilled Locksmith Professionals In Sarasota

If you do find yourself locked out of your car, the skilled locksmith professionals at Locksmith Sarasota will help you get back on the road again, safely and quickly. We offer competitive rates and prompt response times. We are also fully insured, bonded and licensed. Why trust your car or time with anyone else?

Check Out Our Automotive, Residential, Commercial,
Security Locks/Systems, Re-keying & Emergency Services

What You Need To Know About Home Security Door Locks

This entry was posted in Locks, Residential and tagged , on by .

Home Security Door Locks-Locksmith SarasotaNothing is more important for your family’s safety and the protection of your assets than a reliable home security system. Installing high security door locks on every entryway is the most effective and reliable way to fend off unwanted intruders. At Locksmith Sarasota, we have everything you need to secure your property and protect your loved ones.

Types Of Home Security Door Locks

There are several types of home security door locks that you can choose. From basic, to high security, to convenience. Discover the information that you need to know now regarding these residential house locks.

Basic Key-in-Knob Lock

When it comes to discouraging unauthorized entry to your home, nothing is more effective than a deadbolt lock. Most doors have a basic key-in-knob lock, which utilizes a spring to hold the bolt in place. If you apply enough force to the bolt, it can retract regardless of whether you use a key. Because a deadbolt lacks a spring mechanism, it is impossible to force open by turning.

Single And Double Cylinder Deadbolt Locks

A single cylinder deadbolt mounts on the interior face of the door and features a twist knob inside and a key cylinder outside. A double cylinder deadbolt also mounts inside but has key cylinders on both sides, so a key is needed to lock it or unlock it from inside the home. The double cylinder lock is a good option if your door is next to a window. With a single cylinder lock, an intruder could break the glass, reach in and twist the inside knob to gain access.

Keyless Pin Pad Locks

A keyless deadbolt eliminates the need for a key. To gain entry, you enter a numeric code on a keypad. You never have to worry about misplaced or stolen keys and you can change the code quickly and easily if you ever suspect someone knows your combination. This pin pad code-type of system, is also convenient if you ever need to let someone into your home when you’re not there, like a repair man or babysitter, but don’t want to give them a key. After they’re gone, you can simply just change the code.

Home Security Door Locks

We at Locksmith Sarasota offer a wide variety of high quality home security door locks to suit all your home security needs and we carry locks made by the most trusted manufacturers in the industry. Whether you need a deadbolt for your front door or a secure locking system for you sliding glass patio door, our professionally trained locksmiths can provide you with the best locks your money can buy.

Investing in high security door locks for your home is a small price to pay for the peace of mind you get knowing your family and personal possessions are safe.

Contact Locksmith Sarasota Today For Affordable
Home Security Solutions!

Business Security Tips To Keep Your Office Safe

Business Security Tips To Keep Your Office Safe-LocksmithSarasotaYou may not immediately think that your office would be a likely target for burglars, but that’s not necessarily the case. Most people think of shopping centers, pharmacies, banks or upscale private homes as being higher-risk targets.

However, criminals know that these potential sources of money or property are likely to have high-tech security in place, whereas small businesses are less likely to have invested in these systems. Burglars and thieves are looking to make a quick “in and out” type of office invasion.

Basic Office Building Security

If you are interested in office security you will need to consider whether you have people and property in need of protection after dark, or if you just simply need to keep the building and its contents secure.

If you have employees who will be working late, you will need to look at hiring security personnel who will be present until the last one is safely on their way home.

For building security, you can install video surveillance cameras as a crime-fighting measure.

Inexpensive Building Security System Tips For Small Businesses

  • An Unmonitored Alarm System – Sets off an alarm inside and outside when triggered. This would most likely scare off an intruder before a lot of damage could be done to the property. It is an economical choice, since no monitoring fees would be incurred.
  • A Monitored System – Will contact a call center if the alarm is triggered; the call center will alert the police. The vulnerability in this system is that it relies on the phone lines being intact, and a skilled burglar may cut them before gaining access to the building. The burglar can still damage or remove items before police arrive.
  • A Wireless System – Is relatively inexpensive and is a good choice to start with. You can buy one at a hardware store and install it yourself. It includes cameras, sensors and motion detectors. You can also find one that has an alarm and flashing lights.
  • An Exterior System With A Motion Detector – Triggers a light to come on and a loud alarm when someone approaches a door or window. This may be enough to startle someone who may be intent on trying to enter the building illegally or cause damage to the outside.

Choose What Is Best For Your Business

Before you make a decision about the best way to keep your office safe, take some time to consider your options carefully.

  • Talk to professionals who service commercial clients and ask for their recommendations.
  • Contact the local police to ask about average response time for monitored systems.
  • Conduct your own research about different types of alarm systems online. The Internet has a wealth of information to help you find the right one.

Security Experts For Commercial Properties

If you need help upgrading the security of your office building, call the experts at Locksmith Sarasota today!

Call Us Now – 941-281-4100

Be Sure To Check Out Our Top Home Security Tips For Recommendations On How To Keep Your Home Safe!

FAQs For Car Remote Starters – Should You Get It Installed?

This entry was posted in Automotive and tagged on by .

There are a number of myths circulating about remote car starters and whether they will keep your car and its contents safe and secure. Rather than listening to hearsay, your best source of the facts about these devices is to contact a car locksmith in Sarasota so that you can make sure that the information you are receiving is accurate. At Locksmith Sarasota, we offer automotive, commercial and residential locksmith services and would be pleased to answer any of your questions.

FAQs For Car Remote Starters-Locksmith Sarasota

FAQs About Remote Starters For Your Car

Q: Are Remote Starters Bad For My Car?

A: We understand from a number of top mechanics that starting your car and giving it a few minutes to run before you start to drive is good for the motor, and may even extend its lifetime.

Q. Can I Have A Remote Starter Installed With A Manual Transmission

A. In the past, remote starters were only equipped to be installed on automatic transmissions. Now they can also be installed on vehicles with a manual transmission. We would suggest that you have yours professionally installed however as today’s cars are more sophisticated and installing a remote starter requires more training and skill than an everyday mechanic can handle.

Q. Will A Remote Starter Work If I Have Keyless Entry On My Car Already?

A. Yes, it will, and it will give you at least 800 feet of range, as opposed to the 50-100 feet you get from the keyless entry system. You also can add a number of convenience features to your remote starter, including:

  • Security alarm that will notify you if a cylinder is punched or a window is broken
  • Heated seats
  • Car finder in case you lose your car in a parking lot or garage

Q. Does It Make Sense To Get A Car Starter When I Will Only Use It For Part Of The Year?

A. Your car starter is not just for use during cooler months; you can also use it during the summer to cool off your car before you get in. All you need to do is leave your air conditioner on when you get out of the car. The automatic car starter will look after the rest. No more melting while you wait for your car to cool down during the hottest months of the year!

Find Out Why Today’s Car Security Systems Aren’t Very Effective At Theft Prevention

Top Home Security Tips

Everyone wants to feel safe in their own home, whether they are renting or own the property. When customers are asking about how they can help to protect their home, its contents and the people they care about most when we do our assessments for home security installation in Sarasota, we find that we end up offering the same suggestions time and again. We’ve compiled a list of our top home security tips to keep your home and property safe.

Top Home Security Tips-Residential Locksmith In Sarasota

Top Home Security Tips From A Professional Sarasota Locksmith

Doors

  • Make sure all of your exterior doors are equipped with a properly installed deadbolt.
  • Place a dowel in any glass sliding doors to prevent opening. You can buy “Charlie bars” for this purpose.
  • Consider replacing screen doors with aluminum or steel security doors instead.
  • Install a peep-hole viewer so that you can identify visitors before opening the door.

Windows

  • Keep curtains and blinds closed when not necessary. This strategy will prevent outsiders from observing the goings-on in your home.
  • Replace damaged screens or when they start to fall out of the window frame.
  • Limit access to your windows by keeping items that can be used to gain entry to your home locked up, such as maintenance ladders, chairs and tools.

Keys And Control Of Keys

  • Never leave your house keys unattended. I.e. don’t have them on the key chain when you have work done on your vehicle.
  • Consider keying all doors in your home the same, with the exception of one that is used by your housekeeper, babysitter, cleaner, or anyone else you need to give access to your home. If you decide not to work with this person anymore, you only need to pay to have one lock rekeyed.

Outside Your Home

  • Make sure you have plenty of lighting around the perimeter of your property.
  • Trim back bushes and trees so that potential burglars or predators do not have places to hide near entrances.
  • Cut up boxes from any major purchases instead of placing them at the curb. You don’t want to advertise the fact that you have just bought a new big-screen TV!

Additional Security Tips For Your Home

  • Consider installing a locking mail box to prevent mail theft. Arrange for direct deposit of regular payments instead checks, if possible.
  • Keep all of your personal papers and any firearms in your home in a secure lockbox.
  • Review your insurance coverage at least once a year to ensure that you have adequate coverage. Ask whether your insurer will give you a discount if you install an alarm system and get a list of approved vendors – then get the alarm installed.

Residential Locksmith Services In Sarasota

Locksmith Sarasota offers multiple, professional residential locksmith services including home re-keying, emergency home lock-outs and home security installation. Our experience, professionalism and care will ensure that you feel safe in your home.

Call Now To See What We Can Do For You!

The Evolution Of Car Locks

This entry was posted in News and tagged on by .

Looking back it’s easy to see how automobile designs and car locks have evolved over time. Compared to all of the car features available today, consumers in previous generations had to contend with either no locks or simple, easy-to-break-in designs. Security measures were limited.

Discover how car much locks have changed over time.

The Evolution Of Car Locks Over Time- www.LockSmithSarasota.org

How Car Locks Have Changed Over Time

Over time, because of both vehicle and personal property theft, it became apparent that security needed to be taken more seriously by owners. Since that time, vehicle owners and car locksmiths have been interested in finding the most secure locking systems for vehicles to keep both automobile and personal items safe.

Mechanical Car Locks

Early locks were mechanical in design; the technology to offer electronic versions to consumers was not yet available. Auto manufacturers used a particular type of key blank which could then be cut to fit any lock in their product line. The two man types of locks were pin tumblers and wafer tumblers.

Pin Tumblers

Pin tumbler locks have metal pins of different sizes positioned within the lock cylinder. When a key with the proper height of cuts is inserted into the lock, it raised all the pins to the correct level so that it can turn.

Wafer Tumblers

This style of lock is similar to the pin tumbler, but it uses flat, single-piece wafers of different sizes. The proper sized key pushes the wafers into the correct position, which allows the lock to be turned.

Mechanical locks like these can be opened with a tool called a slim jim. Car locksmiths carry them to help customers who have locked their keys in their car. It’s not a good idea to attempt to enter your vehicle on your own with a bent clothes hanger or other device; you can end up causing quite extensive damage to your vehicle. Our automotive locksmiths have the training and experience to do the job properly. This is one instance where you are better off leaving it to a professional.

Electronic Age Car Locks

Most newer vehicles are outfitted with electronic locks. Many models still have a keyed entry, and number pads and key fobs are often used to open the door locks. Modern keys now carry a computer chip, which prevents a fake key from being used to gain access to the vehicle.

Automotive locksmiths are now required to undergo specialized training to keep their skills current due to changes in car lock technology.

Locksmith Sarasota offers fast, friendly mobile automobile service if you’ve been locked out of your car. We also provide residential and commercial locksmith services.

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Why Today’s Car Security Systems Aren’t Very Effective At Theft Prevention

There’s no question that car security systems have become more sophisticated over the years. As technology has become more advanced, would-be thieves have also adapted and become more clever at finding ways to dismantle, disable, or simply get around the anti-theft devices that we use or install on our vehicles.

While there is no way to completely eliminate car theft, we can be vigilant about our vehicle protection and get smart about safety, including consulting with an emergency Sarasota locksmith for advice.

Emergency Sarasota Locksmith-Theft Prevention

Car Security Systems And Theft Prevention

Factory Installed Car Alarms

These theft prevention devices are common on most newer vehicles. The problem with them is that they no longer really act as a deterrent to car thieves. Once the theft is in progress, a thief who has a bit of experience will find them very easy to disable.

Tracking Systems

Tracking systems use a GPS transmitter to track the vehicle and cellular technology to communicate with the monitoring center. Radio technology is typically used to recover stolen vehicles. These systems are very effective, but have limitations.

OnStar, one of the best-known brands, is not available to all vehicle owners. It is only offered to GM customers. The first year is free; however, subscribers have to pay approximately $200 per year for the basic plan for subsequent years to continue the service.

LoJack is available as an alternative, but only in 26 states. It costs about $700.00 to install and is about 90 percent effective at recovering stolen vehicles. Unless you are looking to protect a higher-end vehicle, this is probably not the best choice for you.

Immobilizing Devices

This type of anti-theft device is often offered as standard in higher-end vehicles. Smart keys can prevent thieves from starting your car if they don’t have the correct key and can prevent hot wiring. They don’t however prevent crafty thieves from hitching your car up to a tow truck and simply towing it away, stripping it for parts or breaking in and stealing your possessions.

Consult A Sarasota Locksmith About Car Security

Car security is just as important as home security. At Locksmith Sarasota, we understand that our customers want to feel safe and protect their property.

Call Us Now To Learn About Affordable, Personalized Solutions
For Your Anti-Theft Needs!