Replace Car Fob Batteries

First off, if you enter your car using a device that has batteries, make sure they’re charged before winter has fully arrived. Batteries tend to die in colder weather because they require a higher charge to function properly. But you can ensure they’re working properly if you’re confident they’ve been replaced recently. 

Lubricate Locks

Keys get stuck in locks during winter months, and your vehicle’s keys are no exception. If you’ve had a history of cold-weather auto lockouts, and/or are concerned about it happening in the future, you can lubricate your locks with a spray lubricant to give you peace of mind. Other, solutions that heat up the lock (e.g. lighter, hair dryer) can work after the key is already stuck, but applying regular lubrication can help you avoid the frustrations that come with an auto lockout in the winter.

Replace Old Keys

Similar to the first point about replacing batteries, if you know any of your physical keys are old or worn down, it might be a good idea to replace them proactively. Look for signs of rust, age, cracking or inconsistent function and replace any that are suspicious. 

Keep a Locksmith’s Number Handy

A locksmith can help you replace locks, and key fobs, but it’s also a good idea to keep a trusted locksmith’s phone number saved in case you’re locked out of your car during the winter. As long as there isn’t an emergency situation, they’re the quickest and best option to address your situation. They can also give you tips on preventing the lockout from happening again. 

Carry a Spare

A spare key is another good option for those who regularly experience auto lockouts of keys stuck in the locks of their vehicles. Just as you would with a spare house key, you can give one to a trusted neighbor or friend, or keep it in a secret area of your purse or wallet.

Prepare, Just In Case

Finally, make sure you know what to do if you need an emergency locksmith in Dallas-Fort Worth. There are resources (like this blog) that provide best practices for different situations, as well as steps to take during a locksmith emergency. Do your research, just in case! If you’re interested in more auto security tips, stop by any of our A-1 Locksmith locations in Dallas-Fort Worth and we’ll be happy to help.

It’s also possible you may have overlooked certain winter security advice for homes in the past, but you can remedy this moving forward. Here are four security tips that will help you as you prepare your home for winter.

1. Fix Any Ventilation Issues

Proper ventilation and sealed gaps in your home are important for maintaining temperature in your home in general, but this is especially crucial for maintaining lock integrity in the winter. If there are any ventilation issues or gaps in door openings, it puts your locks at risk for being frozen or permanently damaged. Hair dryers, and locksmiths can help with frozen locks, but why not prevent them from happening in the first place?

2. Keep Current on General Maintenance of Your Home

Just as there are certain signs in the summer that let thieves know you’re away on vacation (e.g. overgrown lawns, piled-up mail, etc.), there are indicators that your home might be an ideal target during the winter. This doesn’t often affect us in Texas, but for our friends in the north, try to keep your snowy driveways, and walkways cleared when you can and bring in any mail or packages you receive. (Get a neighbor or friend to help with this part if you’re on vacation.) Also don’t be afraid to turn on lights inside your home at night.

3. Install Proper Lighting

Speaking of lights, ensuring there is proper lighting at your access points is another good idea for the winter months. Whether it’s a flood light, motion-activated light, smart light or traditional porch light, increased illumination deters intruders. (Holiday lights are another festive way to accomplish the same thing!)

4. Upgrade Your Locks

Finally, make sure your locks aren’t broken or outdated. Frozen locks can be destroyed if the lock is old enough (or poorly designed), so consider having a consultation with a professional locksmith to identify the most vulnerable locks in your home. You have several options for your upgrade, from smart locks that don’t require a key to high-security locks that prevent bumping. Having the right lock can be a thief-stopper in itself.

If you’re interested in additional home security advice, don’t hesitate to contact us today.

While we’re on the topic, you might be surprised to know that the colder months come with their own set of security-related problems for your home. House locks can freeze. Keys can snap. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can avoid these situations from happening. Let’s take a look at three of them.

Problem #1: Frozen Locks

This happens when either the door or lock is stuck in ice. If you don’t handle it correctly, you can permanently damage the door or lock. One way to get the lock working again is to use a hair dryer to melt the ice around the door opening. To prevent this from happening in the first place, however, you may want to ensure your house doesn’t have any ventilation issues or gaps in the door opening. It may also be time to install new locks.

Problem #2: Broken Keys

This problem can particularly catch you off-guard. You insert your key into the lock (usually the front door), turn and it snaps. The cold weather can make keys more brittle, especially for keys that are older. This is problematic for both the key (which you now have to replace) and the lock (if the key is stuck inside). You can remove broken keys from locks by either using a small pair of tweezers or by taking out the locks.

If the key is stubborn or you don’t feel confident trying to remove it, it might be time to call a professional locksmith. He or she will have the tools necessary to easily remove the key. They can also help with key duplication, even if the broken key was your only set. Either way, ensuring you have new keys (and a duplicate set of them) can help prevent this problem in the future.

Problem #3: Locked Out of the Home

Winter is one of the worst times to be locked out of your house, due to the harsh temperatures. Installing a new lock, such as a smart lock, can help you avoid situations like this. You can also give your neighbor, friend or family member a duplicate set of keys. Finally, a locksmith can help you get back into your home or suggest preventive measures.

If you’d like to winter-proof your home’s security, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at 972-284-7500.