Regardless of which camp you fall into, it’s not too late to improve yourself or set some goals for improving in the upcoming year. Security is one area many people don’t think about, but peace of mind is something you can’t replace. Since this area is our specialty, here are five security-related New Year’s Resolutions to consider.

1. Avoid Getting Locked Out of Your Car or Locked Out of Your Home

We humans can be forgetful people. Whether it’s your house keys or your car keys, it just takes one mistake to cause an unfortunate, stressful, and potentially dangerous situation. Fortunately, there are several ways to ensure that you are never locked out of your home, car or business. 

Here are a few ideas to help with this resolution:

• Get a duplicate key made, and keep with a trusted friend or family member.
• Upgrade to smart locks that let you use a combination or code to access.
• Buy a wireless key fob that won’t lock inside a car.
• Set up reminders for when you leave to include a reminder about keys.

2. Create an Emergency Plan

Another low-hanging fruit in the world of resolutions, an emergency plan can give you peace of mind about your loved ones, and employees in the event of an incident. Consider creating an emergency plan for fires, thefts, shootings, and other adverse situations. Document that plan and go through training with your family or employees to ensure everyone knows what to do.

3. Security Monitoring

If you don’t have a security system or video doorbell, a new year is a great time to invest in one. Security monitoring is becoming more, and more affordable while packing on new features. It’s never been easier to monitor your home or business when you’re on the road or out of town. 

4. Find a Locksmith You Trust

Many people search for “locksmith near me” without knowing who is reliable, and who’s not in an industry that’s known for having its share of fraudulent operators. Having a professional local locksmith that you trust is an easy security-related resolution. Just as you have numbers for doctors, plumbers, and electricians, a “best” locksmith number should be easily accessible. At A-1 Locksmith, we guarantee our customer satisfaction and will do our best to ensure we’re your ideal security partner.

5. Upgrade Your Security System!

If you’re already set with the different types of security solutions that make sense for your home, business or vehicle, an upgrade might be all you need. There are likely better or newer versions of every piece of security equipment you own, so at least look into your options.

If you’re looking to improve the security of your home, vehicle or business, contact A-1 Locksmith or visit any of our Dallas-Fort Worth locations today. 

Read on to discover why a DIY re-entry might not be a good idea.

Consequences of DIY Re-Entry

There are certain things that are totally fine to do when you’re locked out of your home, such as looking for a spare key, calling friends or family, and contacting an insurance company, a locksmith or the authorities. But what you shouldn’t do is attempt a DIY re-entry that involves property damage.

Breaking your window, for example, might seem like the easiest solution, but it comes with several negative consequences:

• Damage: Obviously, you’re damaging your property in this situation, which you’ll need to repair later (costing time, and money). Some people break doors, and hinges, but windows are where it gets problematic.
• Injuries: Why are windows a bigger issue? Because when you’re dealing with broken glass, the risks go up exponentially. You can cut your arms, hands or wrists, potentially severing an artery in the process. Do you want to risk that?
• Security: When you create a new access point, you’re not just creating a new opening for yourself. As long as the window is broken or the door is unhinged, thieves will have an easier opportunity to take advantage of you and loot your property.
• Legal: Finally, the police may be involved if a neighbor or passerby sees you breaking into your own house. Even if you’re the rightful homeowner and can prove it, you might be looking at an arrest and/or other legal issues.

Benefits Of Partnering with a Local Locksmith Instead

Home security is so important to many of us, which is why partnering with a local locksmith is so valuable if you’re ever locked out of your home (or vehicle). In addition to solving the issue with minimal damage, injury, security, and legal risks, you enjoy the peace of mind knowing a professional is just a phone call away. 

Of course, you should contact the authorities if anyone’s safety is compromised, but a local locksmith can handle emergency services like this with ease. You’ll be paying for a DIY re-entry anyway, so why not put that money toward a solution with less damage, and stress instead?

If you’re interested in more security tips like these, contact us today at (972) 284-7500.