Many people use safes for both domestic and commercial purposes; whether it be keeping important documents safe or storing valuable items like jewellery. From combination wall safes to fire safes, the type you choose will entirely depend on where it is going and what you are putting inside.

With this in mind, there’s always one question which remains the same: should I go for a key lock or electronic lock on my safe? Which is best?

Both types of locks have their advantages, and in this guide, we will talk you through both to help you make an informed decision.

What’s More Secure: Key or Electronic Locks?

If a safe wasn’t secure, it wouldn’t be called a safe. What we’re trying to say here is that both key and electronic locks are as secure as each other. It’s the way in which they’re used that determines how effective they will be. For example, you’ll need to keep the key to your safe in a discreet location so that it doesn’t get lost or stolen. And, in terms of electronic locks, you’ll have to remember the code.

Let’s take a look at both locks more closely...

Key Locks

Key locks are considered to be the traditional locking option when it comes to safes. You simply need to insert the key and twist to unlock the safe.

Advantages: Key locks are seen as more robust and reliable. They won’t have any technical malfunctions, meaning as long as you have the right key, you’ll have access to your safe for years to come. In terms of lifespan, key locks nearly always last longer than electronic locks.

Disadvantages: As mentioned earlier, losing your key is a very real threat. As soon as you lose the key to your safe, you have no way to access it. This becomes even more of a threat if your key ends up in the possession of someone untrustworthy.

If a lock is poorly made, then things may go south one day if you use the key with a bit too much strength. As soon as a key is stuck in a lock, you’ll be looking at an expensive repair bill to replace both lock and key.

Electronic Locks

Electronic locks are the modern alternative to traditional key locks. They tend to be found in commercial spaces or hotels, when more than one person needs access. You simply enter the right code on the keypad to unlock.

Advantages: The great thing about electronic locks is that they don’t need a key, meaning there’s no risk of someone having an easy break-in. You can also easily change the code on them, meaning it’s not the end of the world if someone untrustworthy finds out the original combination.

Disadvantages: Technology isn’t always reliable. Whether the safe gets water damage or the batteries die, there’s no reassuring that your electronic safe will always be in action. Electronic safes are also slightly pricier, which is why most households tend to opt for key safes.

Summary

As you can see, both key locks and electronic locks have their own advantages and downfalls. But rest assured, whatever choice you make will be the right one for you! Browse our range of safes to day to get a product you can trust (at an affordable price!).

Houses are huge investments which should be protected at all costs. It’s no surprise that many homeowners spend thousands on home security - but is it effective? Do expensive home security systems count for anything when other tell-tale signs might attract intruders instead?

We’ve put together this super simple checklist to help you establish whether your home is secure as can be.

Signs Of Poor Home Security

Take a look at the exterior of your home and put yourself into an intruder’s shoes. Can you spot any of the following?

1. Open Windows

If the house is occupied then open windows aren’t a problem - but are you ensuring that all windows are locked when leaving the house? Open and unlocked windows are an obvious, and easy to identify, entry points for intruders.

2. Overgrown Bushes

Do you have some overgrown bushes or trees surrounding your home? If so, burglars may see this as a sign that no one has been home in a while. If it is obvious that someone is living in the residence, burglars may simply use these overgrown bushes as cover instead.

Don’t give intruders a place to hide! Keep your homes front and back garden well maintained.

3. Unlocked or Broken Fence

Many intruders access homes from the back - the last thing they want is to get spotted by a neighbour. With this in mind, you should be doing all you can to make access into the back of your property as tricky as possible. Keep gates locked at all times and ensure that they are made from durable materials that have no damage.

4. Accessible Shed or Garage

It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that garden tools are usually kept inside a shed or garage. If an intruder gets access to these tools, then they’ll have instruments to break into your property. To prevent this from happening, ensure that your shed has a solid locking system in place and that your garage has durable garage door locks. Intruders are far less likely to attempt a break-in when their lives are made difficult.

Signs Of Good Home Security

Now that you have an idea of what poor security looks like, it’s time to take a quick look at what good security looks like. Use the following list, along with the above recommendations, to ensure your home is as secure as possible:

·         All windows and doors have been fitted with the right locks

·         A security alarm system has been installed

·         Valuable items or tools are not in plain sight

·         There are no objects which make accessing your property easy (eg: could an intruder climb on your bins or shed to access an unlocked window?)

Keep your home security up to date with Fast Keys - the UK’s leading security specialists. Browse our range of keys and locks today to find exactly what you need.

How to Safeguard your Home and Reduce your Insurance Premium

When looking for home insurance it’s crucial that you have the best possible locks fitted, not only will this give you the best protection for your house but it could also save you money on your insurance premium. 

When you apply for cover, the insurer will ask you what sort of locks you have fitted to your property. In most cases you should receive a discounted premium providing that you have a higher degree of security, it is important to consider that in some areas, if your locks are not up to standard, then you might struggle to get insurance cover at a reasonable price.

How to keep your home secure

Most crimes are against property rather than people, we will outline a few tips on how you can make your home and valuables more secure. Many of the suggestions listed are common sense and if fully implemented will go a long way towards making your home and property more secure and potentially saving you the distress and expense of being the victim of a burglary.

The majority of crimes are opportunistic, spur of the moment events and can be the result of leaving a door or window open or having valuables left on view.

Firstly, let’s start to make life awkward for the burglar by taking these simple and cost effective precautions.

Many burglars are opportunistic and they often don’t even have to resort to using force, they simply let themselves in through an open window or door.

· Take a look at your property from a burglar’s perspective.

· Are there any unsecured windows or doors?

· Are your window and door locks strong and secure enough?

· Are there any places hidden from view where someone could attempt to break in?

· Would they have to make a lot of noise to break in by attacking doors or breaking glass?

Windows

One in three burglars gain entry through a rear window. Window locks are an effective deterrent because they force the thief to break the glass and therefore risk drawing attention to himself.

If the window lock is visible, this will also further deter a criminal. There are many types of window locks available with keys for all kinds of windows and frames from your local locksmith. A qualified locksmith is best suited to advise you on the best lock to suit your requirements.

Fit window locks with keys to all vulnerable windows, in particular all ground floor and basement windows, all upstairs windows that are not visible from the street, all windows that can be accessed via drainpipes and gutters or via flat roofs. You should even consider small windows and skylights - bear in mind that a burglar can squeeze through any opening that is larger than a human head.

For UPVC windows, make sure you check with your window fitter before fitting locks as this may affect your warranty.

Remember not to leave your keys in locked windows and store them in a safe place. Consider getting a small key cabinet, these can be inexpensive and will have other benefits which we will touch on later in this series.

Louvre windows can be particularly vulnerable as burglars can remove window slats with ease. Glue the slats into the end plates and if you can find something suitable for Louvre windows, fit a locking device. Here again your local locksmith might be best placed to advise. Also, if you can - consider replacing louvre windows with fixed glass.

When replacing windows, consider using laminated glass as this is harder for burglars to penetrate. Also, think about fitting security grilles to openings that might be vulnerable to attack, such as basement windows that cannot be viewed from the road.

Doors

· Make sure all your doors, front and back are secure.

· Doors should be strong and in good condition and at least 44mm thick (2 inches).

· Any glass panels located on or around doors can pose a risk to security and you should consider replacing them with laminated glass if necessary.

· Make sure all doors are fitted with five lever mortice deadlocks and that you use them. They should be fitted about a third of the way up the door.

· Insurance companies normally ask for locks to have a kite mark to British Standard BS3621.

The benefit of a deadlock is that it can only be opened with a key. So even if a burglar smashed a nearby glass panel to reach inside, he still wouldn’t be able to open the door. Also, if a thief gets in through a window, they won’t be able to carry your possessions out via your deadlocked door.

Letterboxes - do not leave spare keys hanging inside your letterbox as this is an obvious place that a burglar will explore. Thieves are very adept at fishing for keys through letterboxes using poles and magnets, so never leave keys visible anywhere near your front door. That includes your vehicle keys; locking security on modern cars is so strong now that it is virtually impossible to steal a vehicle without having the keys. Hence, would be car thieves have to resort to breaking into homes or fishing for keys through letterboxes. Here again, consider getting a small key cabinet to store your keys. Consider fitting a letterbox cage, this will prevent burglars from getting their hands or special tools inside in order to try the latches.

Exterior doors - Fit solid good quality bolts with strong screws to the top and bottom of exterior doors. For French doors, fit a mortise lock in conjunction with bolts top and bottom of the door.

For UPVC doors check with your installer to ensure that you are not invalidating your warranty before fitting locks and bolts. It is also worthwhile getting some expert advice from your local locksmith.

When buying UPVC or metal framed doors or windows, make sure they come pre-fitted with built-in locks.

Garages and Sheds

Garages and sheds should be kept locked and secure as they are often full of expensive tools and things such as ladders that the burglar could use to break into your home. If the garage has a door connecting it to the house, the burglar can easily try and gain entry via the inner door unobserved.

Make sure your shed has a good sturdy door with strong hinges and that it has a good quality hasp and staple fitted with a security padlock.

If possible make sure ladders are locked away in a garage or shed. If left outside, ladders should be chained up to a strong bracket and in a horizontal position. Check to see that there are no other objects outside that can be used as climbing tools to gain access to first floor windows.

If you would like more information on securing your home, call us on 01268 562 562 or visit the experts at our Trade Counter – Unit 3 Pilot Close, Flumar Way, Wickford, Essex, SS11 8YW

When it comes to securing your home, you might be surprised to learn that you’re making some common mistakes. Read on to discover five of the biggest security fails that can put your home at great risk.

1. Hiding Keys Under the Doormat

It might have worked ‘back in the day’, but hiding a key under your doormat provides an easy way for burglars to gain access to your home. It’s an obvious spot that burglars will look at immediately, so you might want to find a more creative place to store your spare keys.

The further from your house the key is hidden, the better. It’s a good idea to disguise the hiding place so that it’s not obvious what is stored there. For example, using a fake rock that is immersed within real rocks can be a great place to hide a key so that it’s invisible to everyone but you. Or, for guaranteed protection, you could use a key safe to store a spare key. Only those who know the locking combination will be able to access it.

2. Not Changing Your Locks

Getting handed the keys to your property is an amazing feeling, but you could be leaving it at risk of a break-in if you don’t switch the locks soon after you move in. You don’t know who has a spare key to your home if you keep the original locks, so getting replacement locks in place will give you added peace of mind.

3. Posting Too Much Information Online

It’s understandable that you’ll be excited about taking trips or going away on holiday, but if you’re posting about it to all your social media channels, you could be providing an open invitation for break-ins. Posting online lets people know when you’re not going to be home, making your property prime real estate for burglars.

Social media may feel like a safe space to share your whereabouts, but remember that it’s not only your friends and family that can see your posts – it’s also friends of friends who might be looking for a target. In order to keep your property safe from unwanted access, make sure that you’re careful about what you post and don’t give too many details about when you’re going to be away from your home.

4. Relying on Static Lights

For a lot of people, outdoor lighting serves as a solution to their home security requirements. It feels like a suitable deterrent to have a light that is either switched on at the end of the day or that is set to a timer in the evening. But while these lights are great for brightening up your outdoor space, it can also create pockets of shadows that are perfect for hiding behind.

Motion sensors are a better solution as they are triggered by movement, so they can scare intruders away when they suddenly switch on. They also save energy as they aren’t on all the time. These lights, when combined with secure locks and other security measures, will help to keep burglars away from your home.

5. Leaving Signals Like Packages and Post for Intruders

Whether it’s because you’ve gone away on holiday or because you work long hours during the day, it can be easy for post and packages to build up outside your home. These are little details that we don’t think twice about but a potential intruder will see this as evidence that you’re not home, making your property a target for a break-in.

It’s also a common misconception that break-ins and robberies don’t take place during the daytime - a lot of thieves actually take advantage of the fact that houses are empty during daylight hours. So, before you head off for your day, make sure that you have your alarm system on, the doors and windows are locked securely, and that you have some sound on inside (like a radio) to deter intruders.

It’s also a good idea to ask a neighbour to take in parcels if you’re going to be away for long periods of time to prevent them from building up outside. This not only prevents people from seeing that no-one is home, but it also keeps your parcels and letters safe, too.

Conclusion

Keeping your home safe is of paramount importance, but it’s the little mistakes that can often lead to us being caught out. From being careful about when and how often you post about your life to making sure your locks are secure, there are several ways to stay one step ahead of intruders.

How To Replace Your Letter Box 

If you need to replace your letter box due to it being damaged or faulty, you’re in the right place. Here’s a quick guide to show you how to replace your letter box.

Things To Remember Before Buying

It’s important to remember that your new letter box needs to be both fire and smoke retardant, so make sure this is the case before purchasing to avoid wasting both your time and money on one that isn’t.

With multiple different colours and designs of letter box hardware available, you can find the right style that’s both practical and suitable for your home or business. 

How Do I Know What Size Letter Box To Buy?

Though it’s not entirely important as to what size your overall letter box is, the internal size does matter. Getting this wrong could result in the letter box’s sleeve failing to properly fit through the space in your door.

For uPVC letter boxes, there are usually 3 general sizes, these being:

• 10inch letter boxes (265mm x 70mm)
• 12inch letter boxes (305mm x 70mm)
• 12inch slimline letter boxes (317mm x 50mm)

Using a tape measure, measure the overall size of the letter box, and then lift up the external flap and measure the actual postage slot of the letter box.

From here, measure the thickness of your door, making sure you measure the height, width and depth of the aperture. These measurements will help you to find the correct sized letter box suitable for your door.

Is It Easy To Replace A Letter Box?

It’s really quick and easy to replace a letter box and you don’t need any previous skills or experience in DIY to complete the task. You also won’t need any specialist tools or equipment on hand, as just a screwdriver and a tape measure are required from start to finish.

Once you’ve measured and purchased your letter box, both removing your previous one and replacing it takes just a matter of minutes to complete. 

How Do I Remove and Refit A Letter Box? 

Step 1: The first step to take is to lift the flap up from the inside of the letter box, and using a screwdriver, carefully remove the two screws placed at either end of the panel.

Step 2: Once both screws have been removed, open the door itself, and remove the letter box by gently pulling it apart from both sides of the door – it should come away from the door very easily.

Step 3: Having measured the size of your new letter box, you’ll be able to quickly check that the inside measurements align with the gap in the door, and that the letter box as a whole covers this gap completely.

With your new replacement letter box, put it back into the hole of the door, gently pushing both parts into the slot from either side of the door so that it’s fixed into place. The screw holes will always be on the inside of the letter box, so remember this if you’re unsure which way the letter box is meant to go. 

Step 4: While holding the letter box in place from the outside door, use your screwdriver to refit the two screws on the inside of the letter box, so that it is securely fitted. Make sure the screws and fixings are aligned correctly and evenly, and be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this could cause damage. 

This whole process will take just a few minutes to complete, and your letter box will then be replaced and ready for use again.

Be sure to take all health and safety standards into consideration before completing any kind of installation or home improvement and seek further help and advice should you need any assistance with this.

When it comes to looking for ways to secure your property, looking at the front door is a great place to start. Here are six ways you can make your front door more secure. 

1. Re-Key or Replace the Door’s Lock 

If you’ve lent your key out to a number of people over the years or if you’ve recently moved into a new home, re-keying your lock is a wise move. It ensures that you can keep track of who can enter your home, eliminating the chances of the property’s previous owners being able to gain access with an old, spare key. 

Re-keying door locks involves replacing the old cylinder within the lock with a new one. The new cylinder will have different pins – this ensures nobody can open the door without a new key.

Alternatively, fitting a replacement lock can be a good idea if the lock itself is broken or needs updating. This ensures the door is secure and not at risk of failing to provide protection through an old and worn lock.

If you’re wondering whether to re-key or replace locks within your home, take a look at the benefits and advantages of both processes before making a decision. This will help you to establish what method is best for your situation.

1. Fit A Wide-Angle Peephole to The Door 

Installing a wide-angle peephole to your door can increase the sense of security you feel when at home. A peephole allows you to get a good look at who is approaching your property as well as a general view of the area outside your home, so that you can be made aware if a potential threat is at the door.

Peepholes are super easy to install yourself and can be fitted on doors that are up to 2 inches thick. They are also discreet - although you can take a good look at who is outside your door, they won’t be able to see you. 

1. Install A High-Security Deadbolt Lock

Deadbolt locks are locks that contain a bolt that can only be activated by a key or a thumb turn. The bolt can’t be forced open with a blade, credit card or any other method common with thieves, as it isn’t a spring-activated lock. This provides an additional layer of security to the door and is a relatively inexpensive feature, considering the protection they offer in the long run.

Deadbolt locks are available in three primary styles – the single, the double and the lockable thumb style. The lockable thumb deadbolt is a particularly popular style for convenience, as the door automatically locks from the outside once closed but will remain unlocked to you when you are inside the home. 

1. Replace The Door’s Glazing 

The glazing of your door can be an easily overlooked feature when it comes to security, but replacing glazing can make all the difference in ensuring your front door is protected against thieves. Single-glazed doors can be broken very easily by intruders, due to the material being fragile and easily shattered. 

What’s more, the glazing can easily be separated and removed from its frame quickly, due to it weakening over time. If your door is particularly old, it’s likely that it will be single-glazed, as most modern styles are double or triple as standard. Replacing single glazing to double or triple glazing will make it much harder for intruders to gain entry into your property, with many newer styles including multi-point locking systems so that the glass can’t come away from the door’s frame.  

1. Add A Reinforcer Plate to The Door 

Reinforcers are durable safety features to add to your door to increase its security. They consist of a three-sided metal plate that encases and wraps around the door’s latch – the most vulnerable part of the door. By extending the doors edge, the plate adds an extra layer of security and makes it incredibly hard for an intruder to force entry.

Adding reinforcer plates can be a little time-consuming due to the amount of measuring that’s required before installation, but they are well worth the effort considering the protection they offer.  

1. Replace the Door For A Newer Model 

If your front door is particularly old or damaged, it’s a good idea to replace the door entirely with a newer model that’s of better quality. Front doors need to be super durable and sturdy - older models such as timber constructions can sometimes wear too much over time.

Many newer designs feature a variety of different qualities such as built-in locking systems and internal security hardware, so you can pick a style that suits you and your personal needs to ensure your home is secure and protected at all times. 

How Safe Are Electronic Doors?

Smart doors and locks can be especially susceptible to hackers, so this is a vulnerability that needs to be carefully considered before you make the change to electronic. It’s also worth considering the malfunctioning of electronic doors in the event of a power cut, as many locks using WIFI or Bluetooth will cease to function under these circumstances. 

Is A Deadbolt Lock The Safest?

Deadbolt locks are far more secure than doorknobs, as they cannot be forced open with tools or credit cards. Due to their mechanisms, deadbolt locks provide great peace of mind for homeowners.

Can You Pick A Deadlock? 

Though deadlocks can’t be forced open, it is possible to pick them – though this would be difficult to achieve. That’s why it’s so important to look at all the above measures to further increase the security and protection of your front door, to decrease the chances of forced entry occurring as much as possible.