DO YOU OWN ANY WEAPONS? HERE’S WHY IT’S ESSENTIAL THAT YOU HAVE A GUN SAFE

Follow the law. It’s important to learn about the parameters of the local laws in your state regarding weapon ownership. In most states, and in the District of Columbia, the law states that your guns must stay locked up in order to prevent access to children ~ in most cases even if you don’t have kids of your own. You’ll likely be breaking the law if any child ever gets hold of a firearm that belongs to you. Penalties vary for allowing a young person to hold your gun; but the fact is, you’ll be held accountable for negligent storage, regardless of whether or not a child gains access to your gun or actually uses your gun to cause a death or injury. 

When you own a durable gun safe, you’ll keep thieves away very effectively. Otherwise, a burglar could steal your gun and use it to commit a crime, or maybe resell it. The unthinkable may occur: For example, a crook could steal your gun, and then use it to rob a convenience store. If that perpetrator shoots and kills an individual in the process of committing that crime, then if you didn’t own a gun safe, the victim’s family would have the right to claim that your weapon was stored improperly, which means they could file a lawsuit against you. The smart choice is to keep your firearms in a safe, because, if your guns are ever stolen, you’ll be able to prove that you took the correct measures for keeping the weapons secure from the beginning.  

If a robber ever breaks into your place without doing any damage, if you can’t prove that a forced entry occurred, then if you don’t have the evidence that you kept your guns locked in a proper safe, this could work against you should the thief commit a crime with your gun later, especially if that person is someone you know. 

Maintain absolute safety. If you’re a gun owner, it’s vital that you be responsible: Always properly safeguard your weapons. Don’t risk any dangerous circumstances; remember that a death could result if any of your firearms were to land in the wrong hands. 

A proper gun safe will keep your guns away from potential thieves efficiently, and, most importantly, away from kids. The fact is: No one other than you, the owner ~ not family members, neighbors, friends, teenagers, babysitters, children, care-givers, house-sitters, and so on ~ should ever be able to have access to your weapons. 

There’s no question: If you own a gun, it’s critical at all times that you maintain your weapons by storing them safely in a reliable gun safe. Access control is primary. Whether you own a gun for hunting, protection, skeet shooting, target practice, or work, you must guard your weapons appropriately. 

You’ll have extra home protection. If you own a weapon for protection, of course you’ll need to be able to put your hands on your gun fast. Some manufacturers make their gun safes with locks that can be opened in only a few seconds. It’s crucial that you be the only one who knows how to get it open. 

Fully insure your guns. Keeping your guns in an outstanding-quality safe actually may be the only way you’ll know that your weapons are comprehensively insured. Storing your firearms inside a safe can often mean that you can take advantage of a discount on your insurance premium. All you need to do is ask. Thoroughly read through your renter’s or home insurance policy to determine the weapon coverage parameters and limitations. Your insurance company may dictate that you to keep your guns in a certified gun safe, and might compel you to install an alarm. Depending on the number of guns in your possession, and what type of firearms they are, ask about adding a rider to expand your coverage. If you own a good number of guns, your insurance company’s safe certification rules will likely require you to guard your gun collection in more than one safe, in order to reduce the possibility of everything being stolen all at once. If you ever were to make an insurance claim, then if you’re able to show that you took all the proper measures ahead of time to protect your valuables, you’re much more likely to be compensated for the loss. 

Shield your weapons from fire and flood. A top-quality fire-rated and waterproof gun safe will give you maximum protection for your guns and valuables from water fire or damage. 

Safeguard your investment. Some guns are replaceable, or they can be upgraded. But vintage weapons are normally irreplaceable, and they’re liable to have sentimental value for you. Choose the ideal gun safe, and you’ll completely secure all your weapons. 

With an excellent-quality safe, you’ll protect your additional valuables, too. When you have a superior-quality safe to keep your guns totally secure ~ and well-protected from flood, fire, and theft, also ~ then you might as well include your other valuables, too. Since a gun safe is sizeable, you’ll have room left for other important items such as property deeds, passports, birth certificates, fine jewelry, collectibles, stock certificates, tax records, photographs, emergency cash, and so forth. 

Store your weapons in style. Anywhere you display your prime-quality gun safe, it will definitely be attractive. A gun safe usually boasts gleaming hardware and a polished finish. Without a doubt, its impressive weight and size are striking. 

You could save on your taxes. In some states, if you buy a gun safe for your firearms, you’re eligible for a tax credit. A federal tax credit might also be available to you. In some states, gun safes are exempt from sales tax. 

Take the recommended precautions with your concealed-carry weapon. If you have a license to carry a concealed weapon, obey the legal requirements in your city and state. For instance, a portable gun safe is a smart idea for your car. 

How do you choose the best gun safe for you? If you’re in Maple Grove, Minnesota, and you’re shopping for the gun safe that will fit all your requirements, hire a dependable local company, such as Maple Grove Master Locksmith, where the staff safe specialists will be glad to share their expertise so you can make well-informed decisions about your home security. 

Article source here: DO YOU OWN ANY WEAPONS? HERE’S WHY IT’S ESSENTIAL THAT YOU HAVE A GUN SAFE

DO YOU OWN ANY WEAPONS? HERE’S WHY IT’S ESSENTIAL THAT YOU HAVE A GUN SAFE

Follow the law. It’s important to learn about the parameters of the local laws in your state regarding weapon ownership. In most states, and in the District of Columbia, the law states that your guns must stay locked up in order to prevent access to children ~ in most cases even if you don’t have kids of your own. You’ll likely be breaking the law if any child ever gets hold of a firearm that belongs to you. Penalties vary for allowing a young person to hold your gun; but the fact is, you’ll be held accountable for negligent storage, regardless of whether or not a child gains access to your gun or actually uses your gun to cause a death or injury. 

 

When you own a durable gun safe, you’ll keep thieves away very effectively. Otherwise, a burglar could steal your gun and use it to commit a crime, or maybe resell it. The unthinkable may occur: For example, a crook could steal your gun, and then use it to rob a convenience store. If that perpetrator shoots and kills an individual in the process of committing that crime, then if you didn’t own a gun safe, the victim’s family would have the right to claim that your weapon was stored improperly, which means they could file a lawsuit against you. The smart choice is to keep your firearms in a safe, because, if your guns are ever stolen, you’ll be able to prove that you took the correct measures for keeping the weapons secure from the beginning.  

If a robber ever breaks into your place without doing any damage, if you can’t prove that a forced entry occurred, then if you don’t have the evidence that you kept your guns locked in a proper safe, this could work against you should the thief commit a crime with your gun later, especially if that person is someone you know. 

Maintain absolute safety. If you’re a gun owner, it’s vital that you be responsible: Always properly safeguard your weapons. Don’t risk any dangerous circumstances; remember that a death could result if any of your firearms were to land in the wrong hands. 

A proper gun safe will keep your guns away from potential thieves efficiently, and, most importantly, away from kids. The fact is: No one other than you, the owner ~ not family members, neighbors, friends, teenagers, babysitters, children, care-givers, house-sitters, and so on ~ should ever be able to have access to your weapons. 

There’s no question: If you own a gun, it’s critical at all times that you maintain your weapons by storing them safely in a reliable gun safe. Access control is primary. Whether you own a gun for hunting, protection, skeet shooting, target practice, or work, you must guard your weapons appropriately. 

You’ll have extra home protection. If you own a weapon for protection, of course you’ll need to be able to put your hands on your gun fast. Some manufacturers make their gun safes with locks that can be opened in only a few seconds. It’s crucial that you be the only one who knows how to get it open. 

Fully insure your guns. Keeping your guns in an outstanding-quality safe actually may be the only way you’ll know that your weapons are comprehensively insured. Storing your firearms inside a safe can often mean that you can take advantage of a discount on your insurance premium. All you need to do is ask. Thoroughly read through your renter’s or home insurance policy to determine the weapon coverage parameters and limitations. Your insurance company may dictate that you to keep your guns in a certified gun safe, and might compel you to install an alarm. Depending on the number of guns in your possession, and what type of firearms they are, ask about adding a rider to expand your coverage. If you own a good number of guns, your insurance company’s safe certification rules will likely require you to guard your gun collection in more than one safe, in order to reduce the possibility of everything being stolen all at once. If you ever were to make an insurance claim, then if you’re able to show that you took all the proper measures ahead of time to protect your valuables, you’re much more likely to be compensated for the loss. 

Shield your weapons from fire and flood. A top-quality fire-rated and waterproof gun safe will give you maximum protection for your guns and valuables from water fire or damage. 

Safeguard your investment. Some guns are replaceable, or they can be upgraded. But vintage weapons are normally irreplaceable, and they’re liable to have sentimental value for you. Choose the ideal gun safe, and you’ll completely secure all your weapons. 

With an excellent-quality safe, you’ll protect your additional valuables, too. When you have a superior-quality safe to keep your guns totally secure ~ and well-protected from flood, fire, and theft, also ~ then you might as well include your other valuables, too. Since a gun safe is sizeable, you’ll have room left for other important items such as property deeds, passports, birth certificates, fine jewelry, collectibles, stock certificates, tax records, photographs, emergency cash, and so forth. 

Store your weapons in style. Anywhere you display your prime-quality gun safe, it will definitely be attractive. A gun safe usually boasts gleaming hardware and a polished finish. Without a doubt, its impressive weight and size are striking. 

You could save on your taxes. In some states, if you buy a gun safe for your firearms, you’re eligible for a tax credit. A federal tax credit might also be available to you. In some states, gun safes are exempt from sales tax. 

Take the recommended precautions with your concealed-carry weapon. If you have a license to carry a concealed weapon, obey the legal requirements in your city and state. For instance, a portable gun safe is a smart idea for your car. 

How do you choose the best gun safe for you? If you’re in Maple Grove, Minnesota, and you’re shopping for the gun safe that will fit all your requirements, hire a dependable local company, such as Maple Grove Master Locksmith, where the staff safe specialists will be glad to share their expertise so you can make well-informed decisions about your home security.

Maple Grove Master Locksmith: Garage Door Locks for Additional Security

Having a good garage door lock installed at your property will spare you from any unnecessary concerns.

Sure, you may have a reliable opener for the door – but what happens if this fails? Even the best designed systems are never fully immune to damage or glitches.

If you’re going away on vacation, or you’re out of the house for long periods of time, a garage door lock installation is set to bring you full peace of mind over your security. Wondering how? Then keep on reading.

Protecting your garage from electronic opener vulnerabilities

New developments in garage door technologies usually focus on addressing issues that could lead to a system’s circumvention. When automatic door openers were first introduced, they only had a limited number of combinations – meaning that it didn’t take much for someone to override an opener’s code to enter into a property. At the time, thieves would commonly drive around with a remote, pressing the opener button until they found a door with a matching system.

In order to counteract this, manufacturers introduced rolling codes, which constantly change so that no home intruder can replicate them. Unfortunately, tech-savvy burglars know how to work around this system – for instance, by exploiting faulty door openers or activating a door’s emergency release.

With this uncertainty around, a solid garage door lock will prevent your property from getting broken into. Even if a thief manages to activate your opener or emergency mechanisms, they won’t be able to enter the property because everything is locked in position.

Your overall home security will benefit from it

The garage tends to be the entryway for most residential properties. That means having a lock installed will give you more control over who can enter or exit your home through your garage. If you think about it, this is a good protective feature for your property at large: if someone enters or exits your property through the garage, you’ll know exactly who it was – reducing any suspicions if something actually goes amiss. So the locks aren’t just a deterrent, they’re there to provide you with enhanced home security in general.

Garage door locks are easy to install

And they’re quite affordable too. Of course, in order for these to do their job you need to ensure all the screws are secured in place, and the locks are installed properly.

There are three different locks you can choose from. An opener unit is the most common: it prevents people from opening the door by securing it when it is lowered.

The T-handle is the second lock type you might come across. These are installed outside the door and can only be unlocked with a key. Inside its turning handle there is a security bar that locks down the tracks, only releasing the pressure once the key has been turned.

You can also opt for getting a side lock installed. These are as straightforward as their name suggests: A sliding bar on the side of the door is all that’s needed to lock it. Not only are side locks very easy to install, they’re also very effective in preventing that much dreaded opener override we were talking about earlier.

What a locksmith can do to help

If you’re going to get a garage door lock installed, a residential locksmith will be the best professional for the job. Not only will they have a wide range of options for you to choose from, they will do all the work for a very affordable price. Credible lock and key professionals are all licensed and insured, and they’ll have the tools required to install your new security devices correctly.

No matter where you live, the best way to identify the right professional for the task at hand is to do a bit of background research. Try to get a few business names from people you know and trust – friends, family members, neighbors or anyone else you know has hired a locksmith in the past. After you have some local locksmith details handy, call them to ask about their various services. Always make sure that the company actually offers residential security solutions – some locksmiths might choose to specialize in other areas like automotive or commercial services. Many businesses will offer free consults and price quotes, so take the time to clarify any concerns that come to mind. While you’re at it, here are some things to check:

• Information about a business’s reputation: how long they’ve been operating, a list of client references (good locksmiths won’t balk at you for requesting these), license and insurance details, minimum callout charges, and costs for after-hours services
• Any informational gaps. If the person on the other side of the line answers the phone using a generic term (e.g. Locksmith Business), and refuses to provide a full company name, run for the hills. Also, never hire a company you can’t trace a physical address to, or who lacks essential details like contact information.

• A quick tip about money matters: partial deposits are standard procedure; full payment upfront is not. It’s also good to stay on guard if a locksmith changes their price quote on arrival or requests to be paid by cash.
• If you have the time to spare, read a few online reviews about your chosen business and check if any complaints have been laid against them through your local Better Business Bureau.

Are you a homeowner in Maple Grove, MN? Allow us to help. With the locally-based, licensed and insured team at Maple Grove Master Locksmith, you’re bound to find the right garage door locks to install in your property. Simply get in touch with us to discuss our solutions and to get a complimentary price quote from our experts.

Whether you’re in our area or elsewhere, garage door locks will help you keep your home secure. We highly recommend all homeowners to consider installing these in their properties, and we hope this blog post has been instructive in explaining the additional security benefits that these provide.

Article source here: Maple Grove Master Locksmith: Garage Door Locks for Additional Security

Keeping Your Home Safe & Secure

Sometimes just locking your door isn’t enough to keep intruders out of your home. When you’re trying to protect your family and everything that you’ve worked hard for, you likely have some things that you can do to bring you peace-of-mind. One of the things you can do, occasionally, is to evaluate your homes security. This enables you to maintain your peace-of-mind in knowing that you’re home security is still effective. If you’re moving into a new home, this is when you’ll really need to evaluate your homes security. There may be locks that are obsolete or locks that do not belong on the doors they are on. In some cases, there are some doors and windows that do not have locks at all. These will require some type of security feature. You can always rely on the services of Maple Grove Master Locksmith in Maple Grove, MN, to receive the help that you need for your security needs.

When you have a lot on your mind, you may neglect to take your home security into consideration. If you want an easy way to evaluate your homes security, we have developed a few things that will help you immediately increase your homes level of security and offer you the peace-of-mind you deserve.

Your Home Security Checklist

☐Evaluate and Install Deadbolt Locks

☐Evaluate Entryway Doors

☐Evaluate and Install Outdoor Lighting

☐Cut Bushes & Shrub 

Evaluating/Installing Deadbolt Locks – This isn’t something that should be ignored or taken lightly. It could be difference in your receiving an unexpected visitor or not. Since it is the most durable of all locks, it instantly maximizes your homes security. Most homes already have existing deadbolt locks. It is always a good idea to replace existing locks since someone may still have a key. If you decide to keep the ones you have, you’ll need to have the locks rekeyed. In order to make sure you have the right level of security, you’ll need to make sure that the locks are made from the most durable materials. Not every deadbolt is created with the same kind of material and that is why some are more durable than others. The best type of deadbolt lock is usually a steel one. If you decide to keep existing locks, just make sure they are made of steel and if they are not, replace them.

It is also important to make sure that the bolt of the deadbolt goes at least an inch inside the doorframe. If it doesn’t, there is the possibility of your lock being compromised. Invest in the type of lock with a free-spinning cylinder or a tapered cylinder. If it isn’t this type of lock, someone could break the lock, especially a seasoned professional. A single deadbolt lock is the one used most frequently since it only requires one key to open it. I is the double cylinder deadbolt that you should really evaluate before having it installed on your doors. This is because a double cylinder lock requires that you have a key for both sides of the door in order to open it. If you are not able to find the key and there is a fire or something, you will not be able to get out. You can ask any locksmith about the advantages and disadvantages of this type of lock if you are interested. If you have deadbolt locks, make sure that you use them in order for them to effective in keeping out intruders.

Evaluate Entryway Doors – You should also make sure that your entryway or exterior doors have deadbolt locks on them. Before placing any type of locks on the entryway doors, you should make sure the door is of good quality. You will need a sturdy door that cannot be easily kicked in. This would require your door to be a solid core door that is tough all the way through. It is able to withstand pressure applied to it no matter how much pressure it is. If the existing doors are hollow core, make sure that you replace them with a heavy-duty door that can withstand pressure. If these doors have glass windows on them, install unbreakable glass. If someone can break the glass of your door, they can access inside your home.

Evaluate and Install Outdoor Lighting – You might think that having outdoor lighting simply adds curb appeal but it does more than that, it can be a good deterrent for burglars. Make sure that there is enough lighting around your home to alarm anyone passing by to a possible burglary. Your outdoor lighting should be installed along the driveway, walkways, garage and facing all exterior doors. If the lights that you have in place are not in good condition they are no good to you. Check to make sure all of the lights that you have installed, work.

Cut Bushes & Shrub – Even if you have lights around your home, it could be possible for someone to lurk around your home behind bushes and shrubs. This should be a regular part of keeping your home safe. If there are bushes, flowers, trees or plants in front of your doors and windows, they should be trimmed or cut down. Someone could be lurking behind them, just waiting for someone to come home and ambush you. Don’t give an intruder an easy way to get inside your home. You have to consider your home security even when you are doing maintenance around your home.

If you want to do all that you can to avoid a home invasion, you can as long as you make a check-list and do your part in making sure that the things on the checklist are performed. Everyone has to do their part in seeing to it that they keep their home safe. The suggestions offered are both affordable and practical. There is no reason that you should avoid doing your part in keeping your home and family, safe.

Article source here: Keeping Your Home Safe & Secure

IGNITION CYLINDER PROBLEMS; WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEM!

Even kids know what ignition cylinders do; they make the car start! The process is easy; you just insert the ignition key, turn it and BOOM; the engine starts and away you go! As drivers we have experienced this hundreds of times so we’ve come to expect the same results each time. We might be hopping in the car for a nice drive along the beach on a Sunday afternoon. Or, maybe we have errands to run like picking up a birthday cake from the bakery or reporting for work at a new job. Here at Maple Grove Master Locksmith we know all too well that sometimes ignition cylinders stop working. That’s why we’ve made this post. Hopefully, you’ll find it useful in case your ignition cylinder ever “acts up” on you!

You may be wondering…

Are you wondering why an ignition cylinder problem is being addressed by a locksmith? After all, shouldn’t this be something for a mechanic or car dealer to help with? You can call on them, sure; but you can usually save money, time and stress by simply having a local Maple Grove, MN automotive locksmith come to your aid instead. Doing so eliminates any middle-man mark-up fees, tow charges and needless waits and hassles. Your locksmith will even come to you and work right were your car is located!

What your ignition cylinder does

It can be a little confusing unless you have auto mechanic experience or at least a passing interest in the subject. Basically, your ignition key starts the process by sending power from the vehicle’s battery to the starter. Many other components of your car also receive electrical power including your headlights, radio, GPS system, car seats, power windows, disc player, windshield wipers, air conditioner, heater and other related items. Once in a while though, you turn the ignition key and nothing happens! What do you do now?

Are you in the PARK gear?

No, we are not trying to insult your intelligence, but our Maple Grove, MN lock shop often gets calls from people worried that their ignition system has failed. We get there only to find that they simply weren’t in the right gear. You can’t be in NEUTRAL, DRIVE or REVERSE if you want your vehicle to start. PARK is the only gear that works for this and you can sometimes save yourself a service call by simply checking this first.

Do you have “JUICE?”

This is slang for does your battery still have power? Even if you are in the right gear, without battery power your car is going nowhere. Your ignition system may be fine but you may not know that if you mistake your dead battery for a damaged ignition cylinder. You can check your battery by turning your dashboard lights on. Make sure that they are not on “dim” or you won’t be able to tell! You can also try your car radio, windshield wipers, power windows, and other items run on battery power to check its condition.

That crazy steering wheel!

One of the most common “ignition cylinder failure” calls we get here at Maple Grove Master Locksmith is for steering wheel lockups. This is a safety feature included in most late model cars and the symptoms are often confused with a damaged ignition. These lockups happen when you put a little too much pressure on your steering wheel. You may be steadying yourself as you attempt to get out of the car. Or, maybe you were removing a sweater while parked and you used the steering wheel for balance while do so. A locked steering wheel won’t make your key stick but it WILL not let you start your car, either! The remedy is simple; just move the steering wheel back and forth a couple of times to unlock it. Then, if your engine won’t turn over, you probably have ignition cylinder issues.

Did you use the right key?

It’s no surprise; we lead busy and hurried lives and sometimes we can make mistakes. Who hasn’t accidentally turned down the wrong Maple Grove, MN street and wound up on some freeway in the middle of Minneapolis? The same goes for your ignition key. Often, other keys look similar in size and shape and it is so easy to accidentally insert this wrong key into your ignition switch. Naturally it won’t turn on your car; in fact, you might not be able to remove it at all! Needless to say, if this is your problem, it’s NOT your ignition cylinder! Anytime a key gets stuck in your ignition switch, try wiggling it out gently. Don’t force it; keys break and the last thing you want, is to need key removal service on top of whatever else is wrong!

Do you want some cheap help with your car?

Be careful; taking this option might just cost you more than you think! We are referring to friends and family. They usually mean well, and their efforts to help you are sincere, but remember; they may not be trained, experienced or even knowledgeable in auto ignition problems and allowing them to work on your car might just be an expensive lesson you don’t need right now. So where in Maple Grove, MN do you find the perfect combination of affordability and professional expertise?

Not a mechanic!

Well, ok; maybe a mechanic, but keep in mind that if your car’s ignition doesn’t work, your vehicle will need towing, either to his shop or to your car dealership. Not only is that an added expense, it’s a completely needless one, too. Why not call a trusted automotive locksmith? In Maple Grove, MN there are many shops that offer fast, same day service at affordable prices. Choose your locksmith crew from dozens of licensed, bonded and insured companies that also offer 24-hour emergency service and friendly, professional help for every lock on your car or in your home or business.

Article source here: IGNITION CYLINDER PROBLEMS; WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEM!

WHAT TO DO IF YOU RUN INTO TROUBLE WITH LOCKS AND KEYS

We hardly ever think about our locks and keys…until something goes wrong. The truth is, whether residential, automotive, or commercial, keys and locks play a major role in our personal and business lives. If an emergency arises, it’s certainly unnerving, but you don’t have to let it get to you. There are numerous measures you can take to keep yourself secure. You can surely prevent most of the problems with keys and locks that could happen.

Extend the life of your locks. There are things you can do to make your locks last longer:

• If a key won’t turn, don’t worry. Sometimes the pins get jammed up. Spray the lock mechanism with silicone spray or WD-40. This will often solve the problem so you won’t need to call a locksmith.
• General lubrication. If you ever notice any excess friction or grinding in the lock mechanism ~ or at least twice a year ~ apply a silicone-based lubricant spray to the keyhole.
• Replace your keys periodically. Our keys sustain a lot of abuse, because we use them many times a day, keep them who knows where, and toss them around. If you see that your keys are starting to wear down, or if they get damaged, then it’s time to make a new key. Don’t forget to discard your old keys responsibly; a recycle center is ideal.

What about stuck and broken keys? Haste makes waste: If you hurry with your keys, you could find yourself in a bind, because your key might break off in the lock! Take that few extra seconds and be patient with your key. You’ll save yourself plenty of grief.

If you are unfortunate enough to see your key break off inside the lock mechanism, if it occurs before you close the door, then you won’t be able to lock it, which obviously leaves you vulnerable to theft. If the key breaks off in the lock mechanism after you’ve closed the door, you likely won’t be able to open the door again. A broken key can cause damage to the lock itself. What you can do:

• If part of your key is stuck inside the lock, and there’s a tiny bit of it sticking out, you may be able to get it out. If there’s enough of the key showing, you might be able to pull it out with your fingers or with needle-nose pliers. If there’s any damage, then call a locksmith.

• If you don’t see any part of the key sticking out of the lock, it will be risky, because you could easily cause damage. Still, it might be worth a try. Find a flathead screwdriver ~ one that’s small enough to fit inside the keyhole. Pry the key inside, just slightly to the point where it comes out of the lock. If you do it just right, you should be able to remove it with needle-nose pliers or your finger.

Take Extra Security Measures

If you are concerned about circumstances at your place of residence or at your commercial building, there are many ways to give yourself more peace of mind.

Professional locksmiths recommend deadbolts. Be sure they are properly installed. A deadbolt should have at least a 1” throw. On the strike side, there must be a security plate with screws at least 3” long, going all the way into the wooden frame of the door. Do you have a window on or near your door? A thumbturn deadbolt isn’t won’t do you very much good, because a thief can break the glass, reach a hand in, and turn. To prevent this, install a double-cylinder deadbolt lock, which requires an inside key.

Know when it’s time to change the locks.

• Lost keys. If you are sure you have truly lost your keys, change your locks as soon as possible, since you surely do not want to risk the possibility of a stranger gaining access to your property.
• A new home. If you have just moved into a new place of residence, immediately change out your locks. You never know which former residents may still be in possession of an old key.
• New tenants or roommates. The same rules that apply to your home apply to rental properties. If you rent out any space in your apartment or home, replace locks every time you change occupants. Even if the former residents returned their keys, you cannot be totally sure that there aren’t some extra duplicates out there.
• After a break-in. If there’s been a burglary, you should replace all exterior locks right away. After that, replace any interior locks in order of your personal security preferences.

There are more ways to feel safe and secure:

• keyless remote entries

• magnetic locks
• safes for business and home
• keypad systems
• use only reputable high-quality brands, at least grade 2
• combination locks
• hire only a local expert locksmith who is licensed, background-checked, bonded, insured, and certified
• alarm systems

Preventive maintenance will help you avoid most lockouts. Do your part to keep your locks well maintained, and you may not ever have to hire a locksmith. Watch out for:

• difficulties putting the key in the lock mechanism
• wear and tear
• rust
• trouble turning the key in the lock mechanism

If you do come across any of these issues, your best bet is to change the locks, because worn-out locks will more easily get stuck or break, meaning you will get locked out. Old-fashioned or faulty locks also make you more susceptible to burglary.

When It’s Time to Hire a Locksmith

Sometimes you truly will have to call a locksmith professional. If your property is anywhere in Maple Grove, Minnesota, then consider hiring a dependable company such as Maple Grove Master Locksmith, which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, always ready to get you out of trouble.

Article source here: WHAT TO DO IF YOU RUN INTO TROUBLE WITH LOCKS AND KEYS

Maple Grove Master Locksmith: Symptoms of Car Ignition Issues

Your car’s ignition is as much a security mechanism as it is a way of powering on the vehicle. Gone are the days when thieves could easily hotwire cars by dismantling the ignition cylinder: newer makes and models have special code systems that make it near impossible to start a vehicle without the right code from the key fob as well as the right alignment between a key and the cylinder’s pins.

As you’re about to see, ignition issues tend to come in different variations, and may be a bit tricky to diagnose. Here are some common signs to look out for before contacting an automotive locksmith.

1. You experience issues when trying to start the car.

This tends to be the most common sign of ignition cylinder damage. It’s usually the result of gradual wear and tear of the ignition’s inner components – an inevitable reality for all car owners that needs to be addressed immediately. Worn out components will prevent the key from responding to certain positions, eventually making it impossible to power on the vehicle altogether. That being said, this issue could also be the result of a key that needs reprogramming. It’s always best to talk to an automotive locksmith in your area and get them to inspect the damage and clarify the source of your troubles. Remember: The sooner you get things sorted out, the less likely you will get locked out of your vehicle.

1. Your car won’t start at all

This is one of those symptoms that can indicate different types of damage. In this case, you could just as easily be dealing with a flat battery or a faulty sensor as you could be facing an ignition cylinder problem. When the problem lies with the cylinder, it will need to be replaced. Tell your locksmith your suspicions so they can come and inspect things for you: if it is an ignition cylinder fault, they’ll be able to deal with it promptly.

1. Ignition cylinder turns, the engine cranks but the car won’t start

Again, this may be an ignition problem, but it’s more common for other issues. A malfunctioning theft protection mechanism will be the most likely culprit in this scenario. Check your anti-theft devices: if you see a light flashing, you’ll need to get the key reprogrammed as it is no longer being recognized by your vehicle. A glitch in the cylinder switch can cause this problem too, or you could be facing a fuel system problem. Definitely ask a locksmith for help in this case, as the diagnosis will likely be difficult to make without technical knowledge and training.

1. The car starts but the engine fails while you’re driving

This is another issue that may arise because of a worn out ignition switch. Over time, the electrical contacts inside your ignition cylinder are likely to become corroded, making it easier for the car to lose its voltage and unexpectedly come to halt. There are some cases when the low contact may cause the engine to misfire or stumble.

Wear and tear is unavoidable, but there are ways to slow down the process. One thing to remember is that the more stress your ignition cylinder is under, the quicker it will wear out – for that reason, avoid carrying your car keys on a bulky keyring with multiple fobs and pendants.

1. Inserting and removing the key becomes more difficult

Worn cylinders can bind the key into awkward positions, making it difficult to both insert and remove them. Over time, this will cause electrical interference that will render it impossible to power on the vehicle. Not only that, but a worn out cylinder will also mean that your key will no longer fit inside. If your key is stuck after you’ve powered off the engine, try moving the steering wheel from side to side: you won’t be able to remove your key if your wheel is still in lock position.

Sometimes, the only way to get a key out of a worn out cylinder is through an extraction – locksmiths are trained to do this in a way that doesn’t break the components inside. On that note, if your key is jammed, avoid trying to pull it out briskly: that will just cause it to break inside the cylinder, and you’ll be left with more damage than you bargained for.

Finding the right auto locksmith for your ignition cylinder troubles

Need an ignition cylinder replacement? Is your key completely stuck in the ignition? These are just some of the different situations a qualified locksmith in your area will be able to help you out. While some locksmiths may choose to focus on a specialist area, many professionals out there offer a fully-inclusive set of automotive, residential and commercial lock and key solutions. They will save you the hassle of getting new keys and security components from your local dealership, and will keep things timely and cost efficient so that you don’t need to resort to taking your vehicle into an expensive garage.

Maple Grove Master Locksmith will be able to help all car owners in Maple Grove, MN with their ignition cylinder issues and other aspects of their automotive security. Likewise, your local lock and key services provider should be able to do the same for you. Our licensed and insured team members offer free consultations and price quotes for additional peace of mind – as do many businesses in our industry.

If you’ve never had to hire an automotive locksmith professional before, here are a few quick tips to simply the research:

• Always go for a locally-based business. Companies from elsewhere will sometimes charge extra for mileage.

• Find a locksmith before you actually need one. Ask for referrals, do a bit of background checking and get a price quote from a couple of licensed and insured professionals to get the best value for money.
• Make sure to ask about rates for after-hours services as these often incur additional costs.
• If the company you are considering hiring doesn’t have a physically verifiable address, and refuses to provide you with information about license, insurance and local client references, they are not to be trusted.
• To be on the safe side, check if any complaints have been filed against the business through the Better Business Bureau and see if you can find any online reviews too.

We hope this blog post has demystified some of the issues you may encounter with your car’s ignition cylinder. If in doubt, make sure to discuss some options with a locksmith in your area.

Article source here: Maple Grove Master Locksmith: Symptoms of Car Ignition Issues