Your home is your sanctuary, a place where you should feel safe and secure. However, the unfortunate reality is that burglaries happen every minute, putting our loved ones and belongings at risk. According to the FBI, there were over 1.4 million burglaries in the United States in 2021, with an average loss of over $2,700 per incident.
While we cannot eliminate the threat of burglary entirely, we can take steps to make our homes less vulnerable to break-ins. One effective way to do this is to install safety locks on doors and windows.
What are Safety Locks?
Safety locks are additional locks that you can install on your doors to provide an extra layer of security. They are typically installed on the inside of the door, making it more difficult for burglars to break in from the outside.
There are many different types of safety locks available. Some of the most common include:
- Deadbolts: Deadbolts are the most secure type of safety lock. They use a metal bolt that slides into a hole in the door frame, making it very difficult to kick or pry open.
- Chain locks: Chain locks allow you to open the door a few inches to talk to someone or receive packages without having to open it all the way. This is a great option for when you are expecting a delivery or if you want to talk to someone at the door without having to let them in.
- Sliding bolts: Sliding bolts are similar to deadbolts, but they slide into a hole in the door frame horizontally instead of vertically. This makes them a good option for doors that are not very wide.
- Padlocks: Padlocks are a good option for securing doors that are not frequently used, such as storage sheds or gates.
Benefits of Safety Locks
There are many benefits to installing safety locks on your doors. These benefits include:
- Increased security: Safety locks make it more difficult for burglars to break into your home. This is because they provide an extra layer of security that burglars must overcome in order to gain entry.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your home is more secure can give you peace of mind. You will no longer have to worry about someone breaking in while you are away or asleep.
- Protection for your loved ones: Safety locks can help to protect your loved ones from burglars. This is because they make it more difficult for burglars to gain entry to your home, which means that they are less likely to be able to harm your family or steal your belongings.
- Increased property value: Homes with safety locks are often more valuable than homes without them. This is because they are seen as being more secure, which makes them more attractive to potential buyers.
Types of Safety Locks
There are many different types of safety locks available on the market. The best type of lock for your home will depend on the type of door you have, the level of security you need, and your budget.
The most common type of safety lock is the deadbolt. Deadbolts are installed on the inside of the door and use a metal bolt that slides into a hole in the door frame. Deadbolts are very secure and are a good choice for all types of doors.
Other types of safety locks include:
- Chain locks: Chain locks allow you to open the door a few inches to talk to someone or receive packages without having to open it all the way. Chain locks are a good choice for doors that you need to open frequently, such as front doors or back doors.
- Sliding bolts: Sliding bolts are similar to deadbolts, but they slide into a hole in the door frame horizontally instead of vertically. Sliding bolts are a good choice for doors that are not very wide, such as bathroom doors or closet doors.
- Padlocks: Padlocks are a good choice for securing doors that are not frequently used, such as storage sheds or gates. Padlocks are also a good option for securing valuables, such as jewelry or electronics.
How to Choose the Right Safety Lock
Choosing the right safety lock for your home can be a daunting task. There are many different types of locks available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best way to choose the right lock for your home is to consider the following factors:
- The type of door you have: The type of door you have will determine the type of safety lock you can install. For example, deadbolts are not suitable for doors that are made of glass or metal.
- The level of security you need: The level of security you need will depend on the location of your home, the crime rate in your area, and the value of your belongings. If you live in a high-crime area or have valuable belongings, you will need a more secure lock than someone who lives in a low-crime area or has less valuable belongings.
- Your budget: Safety locks can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. The price of the lock will depend on the type of lock, the brand, and the features.
How to Install a Safety Lock
Installing a safety lock is a relatively easy task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the lock is installed correctly.
To install a safety lock, you will need the following tools:
- A safety lock
- A screwdriver
- A drill
- A level
Once you have gathered your tools, follow these steps to install the safety lock:
- Choose the location for the lock. The best place to install a safety lock is on the inside of the door, near the knob or handle.
- Mark the location of the holes. Use a level to make sure that the lock is installed level. Once you have marked the location of the holes, use a drill to drill pilot holes.
- Attach the lock to the door. Use the screws that came with the lock to attach it to the door. Make sure that the lock is tight and secure.
- Test the lock. Once the lock is installed, test it to make sure that it is working properly. Open and close the door several times to make sure that the lock engages and disengages properly.
Additional Tips for Home Security
In addition to installing safety locks, there are a number of other things you can do to improve the security of your home. These include:
- Install a security system. A security system can help to deter burglars and protect your home from break-ins. Security systems can include features such as motion detectors, door and window sensors, and video surveillance.
- Keep your doors and windows locked. This may seem like an obvious tip, but it is important to remember to lock your doors and windows even when you are home. Burglars often look for easy targets, and an unlocked door or window is an invitation to break in.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to people and vehicles in your neighborhood. If you see something suspicious, report it to the police.
- Secure your valuables. Keep your valuables in a safe place, such as a safe or a locked cabinet. Burglars are often looking for quick and easy targets, so make it difficult for them to find your valuables.
- Make your home look lived in. Burglars are less likely to target homes that look like they are occupied. Leave lights on when you are away, and keep your curtains open. You can also ask a neighbor to watch your home while you are away.
By following these tips, you can improve the security of your home and protect your loved ones and belongings from burglars.
