Canada is one of the safest places to live, and crime rates have been on the decline for several years. According to Statistics Canada, 6 of the top 10 safest cities in Canada are in Ontario.
However, it doesn't matter if you live in Markham, Richmond Hill, or Newmarket, it's still a good idea to always lock your doors at night. Just because crime is down doesn't mean your home is invulnerable to theft and damage.
To ensure your home stays safe, it's important that you not only lock your doors but also change your locks on a regular basis. If you've experienced any of the following, it's time to change your locks.
You Have a Large Family
If you have a large family, it can be difficult to keep track of who is coming and going. Perhaps you gave your spare keys to your son to get in after school. Maybe you lent your keys to your daughter to manage the house while you're on vacation.
With keys constantly changing hands over the years, you might lose a few spares now and again. And those lost keys pose a threat to the security of your home. To minimize the number of unaccounted keys, change your locks and keep your duplicates close.
You Recently Purchased a Home
Moving into a new home can be exciting, but it can also be a risky venture. The previous homeowners could have given spare keys to any of the neighbours, and you never know what kind of friends they may have had.
And you have countless boxes of valuables to manage and priceless possessions to arrange. In the chaos of moving, it can be easy for a would-be thief to use a spare key to slip in and grab a few items. Don't risk it—change your locks as soon as you can.
You're Going through a Divorce or Separation
While many of us would like to think that our spouse will remain trustworthy forever, some relationships eventually turn sour. During divorce, emotions can run high and your possessions may become the focus of your arguments. Your former partner may decide to go against court rulings and nab your prized collection of first-edition F. Scott Fitzgerald books.
For your safety, and for the protection of your assets, change your locks immediately, and keep emergency contact numbers saved to your phone.
Your Old Locks Are Difficult to Use
Do you have to jiggle your key slightly for it to fit into your lock? Does the key stick when you try to pull it out? Or maybe your deadbolt only locks from the inside?
Old locks are more than inconvenient; they pose a threat to your security. Daily wear and tear makes your locks easier to pick and break, and they can become more difficult to legitimately open with time. If you spot rust, tarnish, or other visible signs of damage, it's best to replace your locks.
You Recently Had a Break-In
Break-ins are telltale signs that you need new locks. Clearly the old ones weren't living up to their demands, and they left you vulnerable to theft. Not replacing a lock after a break-in is asking for more trouble. If a thief can break in once, he or she can easily break in again.
And while you're replacing your locks, you might want to consider upgrading the rest of the security in your home. Perhaps purchase a safe to store more expensive items.
You Made an Expensive Purchase
Although you may be proud of your new 50 inch 3D TV and custom speakers, your neighbours and friends might be jealous. If you've made an expensive purchase that many people in your area know about, you might want to change your locks, just in case.
New locks, new keys, and a new security system will help ensure that you hold onto your new TV for longer than a week.
You Gave Your Spares to a Service Technician
While most professionals are trustworthy, you might not be able to spot a service technician from a scammer. If you gave your spare keys to your plumber so he or she could fix your washing machine while you're at work, consider changing your locks soon after.
Even if the technician returned your keys, you don't know if he or she had the opportunity to make a duplicate. It's better to be safe than sorry.
You Haven't Changed Your Lock in Years
Even if your current locks haven't given you any trouble, it doesn't hurt to change your locks every few years. Old locks can become obsolete as security technology changes. What might have worked well a few years ago pales in comparison to the locks and keys available today. If you worry about the security of your home, it's important that you keep up with these changes.
If you need new locks, don't be afraid to ask your local locksmith to do the job for you. He or she can help you assess your security needs and find the right locks for your door.
If you need to have your keys cut in Markham, Scarborough or a surrounding area, look no further! Call 905-477-7618.
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If you’re located further east in the Newmarket, Aurora area, and are looking for a locksmith, we can help! Call 905-477-7618.
Affordable Lock is a locksmith in Markham serving the Greater Toronto Area, including Scarborough, Aurora, North York, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan and Stouffville. With over 30 years of experience, we pride ourselves on looking after your commercial or residential locksmith needs. Affordable Lock’s showroom in Markham showcases a wide selection of keys, locks and an assortment of other security products for your home or business. Whether you are looking to upgrade your home or business’s security, or solve security issues, Affordable Lock Services Inc. in Markham is here for you! Give us a call today.