Security

Statistically, at least one burglary takes place every hour across the world. In fact, by the time you finish reading this article, more than 50 homes will have been broken into in the US alone, as well as an equally appalling number in the UK. Consider an instance. On Monday 26 March, a man was arrested in connection with a number of thefts and burglaries in Brighton, UK. From his burglary activities alone, he stole items worth £22,700 within 5 days. Imagine how many more of such criminals roam about.

Statistics show that more than 30% of burglars gain entry through the front door and an even greater percentage do so as a result of forced entry. The front door of a home is the primary target of any illegal intrusion and almost certainly the first place a burglar will try. It’s therefore important that this part of your home features a door that can’t easily be compromised.

There are many things you can do to increase the security potential of your home. For instance, you could get a guard dog, install a home security system, or even hire someone to sit at your gate screening visitors; as effective as those methods might seem though, not everyone can afford them. However, locksmiths all over the world agree that a serious deterrent to break-ins and a strong home security investment is a deadbolt.

A deadbolt comprises a steel bolt that enters the door jamb and metal strike plate in a door frame. There are different types of deadlocks, but the most common is the single cylinder variant. This is usually operated by a knob on the inside of the door and a key entry on the outside. This means that the door can only be locked with a key once the owner is outside, thus preventing unauthorised entry. A less common option is the double cylinder deadbolt, which doesn’t feature a knob and requires a key for both the inside and outside of the door.

Just how secure are deadbolts?

A huge number of break-ins that occur are successful because the intruder was able to use force to gain entry into the premises. They usually do this by ramming or kicking in the door. Typically, when this is attempted, the door itself very rarely breaks, but it’s the door jamb that’s compromised. This is because the door jamb is often the weakest part of your door security.

According to experts at KC Brighton Locksmith, “a deadbolt boosts your security by making the door harder to force open, because of the steel bolt that is held in place against the strike plate in the door frame when the deadbolt is engaged.” If the steel bolt does not extend fully to the metal strike plate in the door frame, then the whole point of a deadbolt is moot. It’s prudent therefore to make sure the strike plate is directly reinforced into the frame of the house, so that even if the door jamb splinters, the frame will still hold. “A deadbolt provides a lot more than prevention against brute force, as it’s also effective against the popular break-in system of using a credit card to slide and raise the bolt.”

Which deadbolt should you choose?

Locksmiths all agree that installing a deadbolt is an inexpensive way of equipping your home with added security, but which is the right one to choose? As earlier indicated, there are two main types of deadbolts: the more common single cylinder deadbolt and the less common double cylinder deadbolt.

The truth is that both deadbolts are equally effective as a security measure for your home, but it’s important to point out that there are features of each that might affect your choice.

Firstly, a single cylinder deadbolt isn’t ideal for doors that have glass panels. This is because a burglar can simply break the glass panel, reach in through the opening and unlock the door with the knob from the inside. Of course, there is always a chance the intruder will be caught before completing this daring move, but who is willing to take that risk? While there’s no chance of this happening with a double cylinder deadbolt, there is the problem of speed in the event of a fire or any other emergency, because a key will be required to open the door from the inside. One solution is to use reinforced glass or changing the door to one where the glass isn’t so close to the knob, but maybe positioned towards the top of the door.

It might be a good idea to hire an expert to install the deadbolt to your door, so you can be certain of a professional and proper job. Ultimately, regardless of the deadbolt you opt for, installing one is a worthy investment that could be the difference between the security of your property and a lot of regret further down the line.

Locks, they’ve been around since all of us existed. They’re pretty standard nowadays and you might think you know all there is to know about locks and keys, but in this post, we’ve put together a list of the most fascinating facts that you might not know, that will make you look at locks and keys, a little differently than you did before!

#1: They’re old

Considering new locks come into the market every day, it might come as a shock to realize just how old locks really are! The very first lock, is said to have been made by the Egyptians, some 4,000 years ago! Of course, they didn’t look like the locks we have today, and most were just made out of ropes, but that’s where they came from!

#2: The ancient key keepers, aren’t who you’d expect

Considering how bad gender equality is even in 2021, you’d think that in ancient times, the key keepers would also be men in power, but that’s not the case! In historic times, including Ancient Rome and the Viking era, it was the women who’d be the key keepers, and not the men! They’d even wear the rings as jewelry to show off their power!

#3: Keys haven’t always been simple tools
Today, keys serve one purpose, to open locks, but that wasn’t always the case. In ancient times, throughout history, keys have been used as a status symbol. They were worn and showed off by the rich because they represented that they had a lot to “lock away”, as homes were not locked back then, instead, they were guarded!

#4: Being a magician wasn’t Houdini’s first job

We all know Henry Houdini as the greatest magician to have ever lived. It may come as a surprise that being a magician wasn’t his first calling, instead, he was a locksmith! Using the sleight of hand and the art he learned from his time as a locksmith, he was able to break through and become a successful magician!

#5: Bobby pins aren’t as good as keys

Even though movies and pop culture, in general, make it seem like bobby pins are the best tool to use if you don’t have access to keys, they’re actually not. They’re just convenient to always have on hand, which makes them great for fiction. In reality, a lot of locks are simply too small for the pins to even fit through!

#6: Not all locksmiths are human

Even though it makes sense for humans, who made the locks and know the way they function, to be able to pick locks, we’re not the only ones with the know-how. Birds can pick locks too! At least, one special parrot called “Magic”. In 2014, Magic picked two locks that were holding him in his cage while his owners were away on vacation. Embodying Houdini, in feathered form.

#7: Fort Knox is secure for a reason

Fort Knox is where a lot of the US Government stores its gold. This type of treasure can’t just be kept under a regular lock and key. The locks for the building, each and every one of them, are changed every day. So every single staff member that works there, has to get a new code, every morning! Inconvenient, but super secure!

#8: A strong lock is nothing without the right locksmith

Today, there are hundreds of different types of locks available in the markets. A lot of these locks are super strong, virtually unbreakable, but, they’re not just going to provide you crazy security on their own, they need to be fitted properly. Locksmith Queens, or a recommended locksmith in your area, will be able to properly fit your locks, which is the way to ensure their proper functionality!

About two decades ago, an example of a smart home gadget may have only been a timer for an outdoor spotlight which would turn on at a specific time. But nowadays, the definition of a smart home has become quite different – definitely a lot more advanced. Smart homes are becoming more popular with homeowners, especially those who rely on gadgets and technology every single day. In fact, over a quarter of consumers currently have some sort of smart home appliance or gadget in their homes, and almost half of people aged between 18 and 34 years old have already adopted smart home technology. But what exactly is a smart home? How is it really defined? Here, your top questions are answered.

The definition of a smart home

The definition of a smart home is actually quite simple. A smart home is a home that is equipped with products and components which are connected to a particular network (for example, products which are connected to Bluetooth or Wi-Fi or other networks). This connection to a network allows you to control, automate, and optimise various functions in your home. These functions include the temperature, the security, the lighting, the entertainment, and the safety. If you can control, automate, or optimise these various functions with the use of a phone, a computer, a tablet, or another kind of system located within the home, then you have a smart home.

 

With a smart home installation, you should be able to control the different functions of your home remotely, through either a portal or a special app which you can access through your mobile phone or tablet. Devices which are smart-enabled should be able to run and operate in collaboration with other gadgets or devices in your home, and they should be able to communicate with other devices as well.

Examples of smart-enabled devices

The variety of devices which can be smart-enabled is increasingly expanding. Today, virtually all devices in any home can be smart-enabled, and this includes refrigerators, dryers and laundry machines, and even ovens. Of course, smaller components such as lighting can be enabled as well, and your heating and boiler system can also be smart-enabled, along with your home entertainment and audio system, your security and alarm system, and other electronic devices and appliances.

What a smart home needs to have

The home should have a smart feature (such as a security feature, a temperature control feature, and more) in addition to having a good connection to the Internet. To adhere to the definition of a smart home, the home must also have two other features (at a minimum) from a host of ‘smart’ features or options which include entertainment, appliances, lighting, safety detectors or gadgets, outdoor sensors, window and door sensors, and so on.

 

Image attributed to Pixabay.com

 

Locksmiths play a major role in solving the car lock problems, including the lock repair, replacement, and installation. Premium locksmith Marietta has the latest tools for car lock repairing. Car lock gets issues for several reasons, like when the car door gets jammed, or it’s broken, or the lock is sticking, etc. The locksmith in Marietta GA can help with the car lock repair, car lock replacement, trunk lock replacement or repair, car boot, broken door latches, and the central lock system repair.

Broken or Damaged Lock

It often happens that the lock mechanism stops working and you need the locksmith services Marietta. Our technician will remove the lock and repair it with suitable tools. It’s not that the entire car lock system gets damaged, but only one lock may need repairing. Security door locks are also available at the Premium Locksmith Marietta at cheap rates.

Car Lock Needs Replacement

When the car lock is so damaged that you can’t repair it, then it has to be replaced. Premium Marietta Locksmith GA has efficient workers who can replace your car lock in just a little time. You will not need the new keys; instead, we will provide you a new lock according to your car keys. We have locks for all types of old and new car models. Our well-trained car key locksmith is always there to help you.

Car Lock Repair Cost

The price varies with every locksmith and depends on the nature of the damage and car model. Premium locksmith Marietta GA offers affordable rates for the car lock repair. You can also get quotes from other locksmith companies to compare them with our price. If you want a cheap locksmith in Marietta service, then Premium Locksmith should be your first choice.

What to Do When Locked Out?

We often get annoyed due to the keys locked in car, and we are locked out of the car. This can happen to any vehicle, and Premium Locksmith provides the emergency locksmith services right on the location where you are looked out. Whether day or night, you can contact us and we will give you the new keys to open the car lock. There are several reasons that you get locked out of your vehicle; the keys are locked inside, your car keys are lost, keys are broken, the responder chip is damaged and you need reprogramming, the vehicle door latch gets stuck, or the car door lock is broken. Our technician will reach you instantly and will unlock the vehicle without damaging your car. A 24 hour locksmith Marietta service is specially designed to meet your requirements.

Sometimes you don’t have a spare key and you are locked out of the car; in such cases, we will give you a new key according to the car lock. You name your car lock and key problem, and we will handle it fast. Sometimes, the car keys don’t work but don’t worry; our worker will diagnose the issue and will provide you the new keys. You don’t need to search for a mobile locksmith here and there because Premium locksmith Marietta GA is here to serve you. The company has gained a good reputation due to its professionalism and dedicated team. Premium locksmith in Marietta GA offers fast and affordable services to all its customers. You can also get an online quote to get a fast locksmith service.

The beauty of your home matters, but the safety matters the most so instead of focusing only on planting trees and flowers, adding color to your walls and adding décor, also ensure you are taking steps to secure the house from intruders and burglars. Here are some simple tips you can employ to keep your home safe.

1. Lock windows

Doors and windows are the common entry points for burglars. Unfortunately, depending on the manufactures design of the windows is not safe and some are downright flimsy. If you see that your window latches don’t look too good, beef up their security structures with locks or levers that are key-operated. However, that’s not all you need to do, some good ideas that will ensure your windows are burglar proof include:

• Add a window security film to your glass
• Add glass or window break sensors
• Add window bars
• Plant prickly bushes under your windows but always keep them trimmed
• Light the backyard

2. Secure the garage

The garage is also an entry point that burglars us to gain access to your home. Even though your may not be able to access your house from the garage, your garage might be storing good stuff. Lock all the doors of the garage both in the exterior and the interior. If you use a security code to access your garage, ensure that you keep the code safe and keep it a secret. Never key in the security code in front of strangers like delivery people or your neighbors. It is wise to use extra locks to secure your garage and ensure that it’s lighted.

3. Lock your Wi-Fi network

When someone has access to your wireless network, he/she can as easily access your personal and financial information. If you use a home automation system, the access to wireless network also makes your house be at risk of a break-in. You therefore need to be extra careful with your Wi-Fi network to keep hackers away from your home network; secure your router, enable a WPA or WPA2 encryption, use firewall, install anti-malware protection and hide your home network.

Personal protective equipment also known as PPE is a term thrown around the workplace on a regular basis, but do you really know what it means? Perhaps you wear PPE on a daily basis but do not know its core function?

In this article, we will be exploring some of the basics behind PPE and what it is used for exactly. We will also be touching on the type of industries that use PPE.

Let begin with the history…

The history of Personal Protective Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment goes back all the way to the 1800’s when the first aspects of health and safety were formed. In 1833 the factories act ensured employees worked in hazards free workplaces, over time this developed into the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and the formation of Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

With hundreds of regulations and legislation being created after the formation, including the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, which outlined all the standards of PPE.

The regulation outlined the areas of which Personal Protective Equipment will need to protect, these areas include the eyes, ears, lungs, skin and body. Items within this category do not have to protect more than one area but many items tend to offer a range of protection.

The products included in Personal Protective Equipment

Each item is designed to protect an area of the body, from head to toe, these items are specifically designed to protect.

Eyes

Each of the items that are included in the eyewear protection is usually based on the glasses design. Items like safety spectacles, goggles, face-shields and visors are a superb choice to protect the eyes from potential hazards.

Head

Most of the items within this category are designed to protect the head from falling objects, such as hard hats and helmets. Whereas there are items such as bump caps which are designed to reduce the impact of bumps to the head.

Breathing

Working in environments where there are airborne dusts, vapours and gasses can cause serious medical conditions, this is why in many environments you would need to wear special equipment. This special equipment is usually a respirator or filter which can be either a half or full face mask/helmet.

Protecting the body

There are many Items to protect the body against potential hazards, as a number of hazards are extraordinarily high. With potential hazards ranging from adverse weather conditions to chemical/metal splashes, items like boiler suits and protective jackets are often considered.

Hands and arms

The hands and arms are usually the first areas to come into contact with a potential hazard. These are also some of the easiest to protect as well. Items like protective gloves can often protect you from hazards such as abrasions, temperature extremes, cuts and punctures and much more.

Feet and legs

Working in environments such as building sites can often present hazards near the feet and legs. Stepping on sharp objects can easily penetrate through the foot and cause serious damage to the foot. Wearing items such as Steel Toe Cap boots can help to protect the feet from such effects, whereas, wearing work trousers will help to protect the legs.

The industries that use Personal Protective Equipment

There is a huge range of sectors that regularly wear Personal Protective Equipment, from builders to warehouse operatives, employees from around the globe wear some form of the protective products. As you now know, personal protective equipment includes an extensive range of products, therefore you must have seen plenty around workplaces. The most common item is the Hi Vis Vest, it is hard to go to any workplace without seeing one of these lying around, from railway to quarries.