Articles

Since the tragic death of NFL player Sean Taylor, who was a victim in a home invasion, there have been numerous home security articles and an increased interest in the security measures you can take to avoid such an occurrence. For many people, this will mean a new home security door lock that is an improvement over the one they currently have.

When you are reading home security articles you will find that most have common themes. Having the best home security lock on each door to the outside, and keeping them locked is probably the most common theme. Alarms and home security services are also mentioned frequently, but good locks are the most important first step.

A lock is worthless if it isn't used, so all family members should get in the habit of locking doors. Please don't keep a spare key in an obvious hiding place, such as on top of a door frame or under the welcome mat. If you are afraid of accidentally locking yourself out, leave a spare key with a neighbor you trust, or put one in a lock box with a code.

Articles about home security usually list the different kinds of locks and the pros and cons of each. Obviously an old lock that can be opened with a skeleton key is not the safest, but there are many modern locks that can be opened quite easily as well. If you can open it with a credit card, so can a thief.

The box that a security lock fits into is also of utmost importance. The box should be anchored properly in the door frame with 3" or longer nails or screws. The box should be rated as "kick-proof" as well. The security bolt must be one 1.5" long. If there is glass located near the lock, a specialty lock should be used that cannot be opened by breaking the glass and reaching in to open the lock. Be aware of your local building codes and be sure to follow all regulations.

Writers of home security articles might fall back on that old chestnut concerning broken locks and silenced alarms. The typical advice is to hide in an isolated space such as a closet, and attempt to reach the authorities with a mobile phone. Should you be discovered, do not stare directly at the miscreants. However, you should attempt to pay close enough attention to be able to identify unique features or markings such as a tattoo. However, it is best to simply not be in that situation.