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Lock it up!


Safety features are an important part of every home. Locks, specifically, are the best way to keep your home safe and secure from unwanted “guests.” Different doors require different types of locks. Let’s review some basic and high-tech models to help you decide what kind of locks fit your needs the best.

Deadbolts
With a deadbolt lock, a key or twist knob are the only things that can activate the bolt to keep the door in place.1 Deadbolts are strong against burglars because they cannot be “jimmied” (opened with a knife or credit card).2 The best practice is to use a solid wood door frame, hardened steel bolt and a metal strike plate as reinforcement to prevent against battering.1, 2 This type of lock is commonly used by those looking for something safe and secure for their front door.

  • If your doors open outward, you must ensure that your exposed hinges are secured. Ensure that your door is equipped with non-removable hinge pins so an intruder cannot gain entry by swinging the door on the lock after removing the pins.

  • Reinforce your door frames by filling any gaps between the wall and the frame, making it harder to force the door off the frame.

 
Keyless entry pads
While the lock itself is similar to the deadbolt, keyless entry pads operate through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to open your door through the touch of a key or by entering a passcode.1 A main advantage of this lock is the remote capability.1 For example, if you are at work and need to let in the babysitter, this lock allows you to do so. Keep in mind that these locks are battery run and need to be recharged, although the traditional key is still available as backup when this occurs.3  This is the alternative for those looking for a more high-end lock that incorporates technology.

Basic doorknob locks
Basic doorknob locks are those that can be unlocked/locked by a key from both sides of the door. The appeal comes from being the simplest lock to use and install. That being said, basic doorknob locks also offer the least amount of security against intruders. As the cheaper alternative, these locks are effective for rooms that need to be locked but don’t have a high risk of intrusion (i.e. a storage room in your basement or a private bathroom). A good option is pairing it with a deadbolt lock for maximum security.
If you have a sliding glass exterior door, it is important to ensure the doors are properly secured.

  • Install "jimmy-plates" or screws at the top of the tracks to reduce any vertical play in the doors.

  • Install a "Charlie Bar" or other horizontal folding device which blocks movement of the sliding portion of the door.

  • Place a metal rod, broom, or hockey stick cut down and along the bottom of door tracks.

 
While locks are very effective in protecting your home, you may still fall victim to a break-in. Thankfully, your home insurance policy has you covered when you need it most.

Insured with OTIP? Your Curo claims adjuster will be there to guide you every step of the way. Not an OTIP client? Get a quote for home insurance from an OTIP insurance broker today, call 1-888-892-4935. To review your current OTIP policy, call 1-833-494-0090.
 

  1. Economical Insurance – What kind of lock is best for your door?

  2. Halton Police – Door and Lock Safety

  3. Great Valley Lockshop Inc. – What to do if Your Keyless Lock Battery Dies?

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