Locksmith Pro Evanston: Security for Commercial Property

There is nothing business owners hate more than law suits. Can you imagine being sued because you did not implement any security measures at your commercial property? That would certainly be negative publicity. It is in your best interest and the interest of your business that you take effective measures to not only protect your property, but your employees and the clients that you serve.  Call Locksmith Pro Evanston in Evanston, Illinois and let us help. 

You may be dodging all these security measures because you want to avoid all the expense that are associated with them. But, hey, we’ve got news for you! You can only procrastinate for so much time. At some point, you will have to employ measures to keep your commercial property safe. Yes, you may have locks on your doors and cabinets with locks. But, is that really enough? 

Keep Your Commercial Property Safe and Secure 

Do you really believe that you have done all you can to make sure that your commercial property is safe? Do you collect cash on property? What do you do with it when it gets to a large amount? How safe are your employees while they are at work? How safe are you while you are in that building? Don’t skimp out on security because you want splurge elsewhere. Security is extremely important, especially when it comes on to commercial properties.  

Can you imagine losing all that hard-earned money just because you didn’t want to pay for a security device? Some people call that pound wise and penny foolish. Don’t be the business owner who puts everything at risk because of the fear of paying high prices for security. Make sure you protect your commercial property. 

If you do not own a large-scale business, you may not need a wide variety of security products and elaborate systems. But, make sure that the strategies you employ are relevant to your business and the area that your business is in. There is no doubt about it, some businesses will require more protection than others. Why? Some commercial properties are simply just a bigger target for criminals. Just make sure that you get the protection needed to secure all the things that you have worked so hard to build. 

How to Secure Your Commercial Property 

Even though there is google and so many other search engines on the internet, there are some things that are not that easy to search and find. This is why there are so many professionals around that cater to different needs. When it comes on to securing your commercial property, there are two places that you can turn to- security companies and locksmiths. These professionals know the ins and outs of many security devices. Just make sure you find a good commercial locksmith in your area to help you out. You will be able to get the advice you need about which products are best suited for your business.  

Check out some of the most popular security devices used at commercial properties. 

• Keyed locks 

As the name suggests, these are locks that require keys. They come in all shapes, sizes and types. From padlocks to deadbolts, there are so many locks that you can install on your commercial property. Locks have been used to secure properties for many years. They have proven themselves to be very reliable and dependable. Plus, depending on the type of locks that you use, you can significantly increase the level of security on your property. 

• Keyless locks 

Keyless locks are the more modern types of locks. From the name, you should be able to tell that they don’t require keys. Instead, you open these locks with a card, a password, a fingerprint, an iris scanner or some other specific means of identification. They are safer than traditional locks but they tend to come with a much heftier price tag. Keyless locks tend to require some knowledge of technology too. If you’re not very tech savvy, it may be better if you stick to the more traditional types of locks. They can be just as effective, especially if you maintain them properly.  

• Video surveillance 

Some business owners are not too keen on this security measure because it will not stop intruders from getting inside. However, video cameras are an invaluable tool for identifying those same intruders. The best type of video cameras to have are those that are not very visible. Although some business owners like to disclose that their property is being surveilled. It doesn’t mean that you have to place the cameras in plain sight. That would defeat their purpose.  

• Alarm systems 

This is one security system that has a very good response feature when the system is breached. It is a big deterrent for criminals and if an incorrect code is entered or the system is not accessed properly, it will start an alarm and in some cases, it can be set up to send alerts to a security company or the police. One of the drawbacks to this system however, is the expense to have it installed and maintained. But, if you can afford it, you really should consider getting it for your commercial property.  

• Panic bars 

Emergency measures are also a part of security for your commercial building. You have to prepare for all scenarios. If there is an emergency, a panic bar is a great device to have. It will allow anyone in the building to exit easily. Panic bars are a great investment. Not only because they are inexpensive, but also because they do an excellent job and they are very durable. Plus, they do not require a lot of maintenance.  

All Commercial Properties Need Security 

It doesn’t matter how small or big your business is, you should take precautions to protect it and prevent theft or some other unfortunate incident. Even if you are unsure of what measures to implement, you can call us at Locksmith Pro Evanston. We offer a wide variety of commercial services and we can advise you on the best security devices for your commercial property. Just give us a call and check out what we have to offer.  

Locksmith Pro Evanston: Security for Commercial Property

There is nothing business owners hate more than law suits. Can you imagine being sued because you did not implement any security measures at your commercial property? That would certainly be negative publicity. It is in your best interest and the interest of your business that you take effective measures to not only protect your property, but your employees and the clients that you serve.  Call Locksmith Pro Evanston in Evanston, Illinois and let us help. 

You may be dodging all these security measures because you want to avoid all the expense that are associated with them. But, hey, we’ve got news for you! You can only procrastinate for so much time. At some point, you will have to employ measures to keep your commercial property safe. Yes, you may have locks on your doors and cabinets with locks. But, is that really enough? 

Keep Your Commercial Property Safe and Secure 

Do you really believe that you have done all you can to make sure that your commercial property is safe? Do you collect cash on property? What do you do with it when it gets to a large amount? How safe are your employees while they are at work? How safe are you while you are in that building? Don’t skimp out on security because you want splurge elsewhere. Security is extremely important, especially when it comes on to commercial properties.  

Can you imagine losing all that hard-earned money just because you didn’t want to pay for a security device? Some people call that pound wise and penny foolish. Don’t be the business owner who puts everything at risk because of the fear of paying high prices for security. Make sure you protect your commercial property. 

If you do not own a large-scale business, you may not need a wide variety of security products and elaborate systems. But, make sure that the strategies you employ are relevant to your business and the area that your business is in. There is no doubt about it, some businesses will require more protection than others. Why? Some commercial properties are simply just a bigger target for criminals. Just make sure that you get the protection needed to secure all the things that you have worked so hard to build. 

How to Secure Your Commercial Property 

Even though there is google and so many other search engines on the internet, there are some things that are not that easy to search and find. This is why there are so many professionals around that cater to different needs. When it comes on to securing your commercial property, there are two places that you can turn to- security companies and locksmiths. These professionals know the ins and outs of many security devices. Just make sure you find a good commercial locksmith in your area to help you out. You will be able to get the advice you need about which products are best suited for your business.  

Check out some of the most popular security devices used at commercial properties. 

• Keyed locks 

As the name suggests, these are locks that require keys. They come in all shapes, sizes and types. From padlocks to deadbolts, there are so many locks that you can install on your commercial property. Locks have been used to secure properties for many years. They have proven themselves to be very reliable and dependable. Plus, depending on the type of locks that you use, you can significantly increase the level of security on your property. 

• Keyless locks 

Keyless locks are the more modern types of locks. From the name, you should be able to tell that they don’t require keys. Instead, you open these locks with a card, a password, a fingerprint, an iris scanner or some other specific means of identification. They are safer than traditional locks but they tend to come with a much heftier price tag. Keyless locks tend to require some knowledge of technology too. If you’re not very tech savvy, it may be better if you stick to the more traditional types of locks. They can be just as effective, especially if you maintain them properly.  

• Video surveillance 

Some business owners are not too keen on this security measure because it will not stop intruders from getting inside. However, video cameras are an invaluable tool for identifying those same intruders. The best type of video cameras to have are those that are not very visible. Although some business owners like to disclose that their property is being surveilled. It doesn’t mean that you have to place the cameras in plain sight. That would defeat their purpose.  

• Alarm systems 

This is one security system that has a very good response feature when the system is breached. It is a big deterrent for criminals and if an incorrect code is entered or the system is not accessed properly, it will start an alarm and in some cases, it can be set up to send alerts to a security company or the police. One of the drawbacks to this system however, is the expense to have it installed and maintained. But, if you can afford it, you really should consider getting it for your commercial property.  

• Panic bars 

Emergency measures are also a part of security for your commercial building. You have to prepare for all scenarios. If there is an emergency, a panic bar is a great device to have. It will allow anyone in the building to exit easily. Panic bars are a great investment. Not only because they are inexpensive, but also because they do an excellent job and they are very durable. Plus, they do not require a lot of maintenance.  

All Commercial Properties Need Security 

It doesn’t matter how small or big your business is, you should take precautions to protect it and prevent theft or some other unfortunate incident. Even if you are unsure of what measures to implement, you can call us at Locksmith Pro Evanston. We offer a wide variety of commercial services and we can advise you on the best security devices for your commercial property. Just give us a call and check out what we have to offer.  

What You Should Do When You Have Ignition Problems

Even if you have a newer car, you can still experience a problem with your ignition. This is simply the way things are, not all of the time but sometimes. In some instances, it is just unavoidable. You stick your key in the ignition and nothing! We’ve seen this happen too many times at Locksmith Pro Evanston in Evanston, IL. If you begin to notice problems with your ignition, it is best to address the problem quickly before the problem gets worse. In some instances, you might even have to replace your ignition altogether. Sometimes, the key will even break off in the ignition making the problem even worse than it already is. When you have a problem with your ignition, you may not know the first thing to do. We have put together some helpful information that just might help alleviate some of your anxiety. It could be something as simple as your key in the wrong position. Knowing what to do when there is ignition trouble may also enable you to help a fellow motorist.

Based on the type of car you have, you may actually be able to resolve the matter on your own. There are various ignition cylinder designs. This means that there could easily be different solutions to help remedy your ignition issue. Some ignition cylinders only require that you lightly wiggle the steering column back and forth in order to successfully release a key that is stuck. This is a technique that has proven to work for several motorist and we believe it is worth the effort of trying in order to get back on your way as quickly as possible. The one thing you want to try to avoid is breaking the key in the ignition. It makes the situation more complicated and you might have to depend on the services of a locksmith to extract the key.

We offer a host of solutions for your ignition problems. Cars are built on robotic assembly lines and they have more parts than they used to. This makes it easier to damage the parts that are being applied. A small problem can easily turn into a much larger problem and cause a complete system break down. The suggestions offered should only be applied by someone who has some technical skills. Even when someone is opting to handle the problem for you, remember that they will not likely assume financial responsibility if something they do causes the problem to become worse. The following suggestions might be of use to you.

• Always make sure that the gear is in ‘park’ when you are not moving. If the gear is in ‘drive’ when not in use, the built in safety feature will prevent you from removing your key. Also make sure your break is applied to prevent your car from rolling.

 

• If the car is not turned out but is still in the on position, this will also prevent you from being able to remove the car key. This is a feature that was designed to avoid disabling your engine while in use. This could damage your engine and even cause a crash.

 

 

• The key release feature in recently designed cars are powered electronically. If you have a dead battery, this might cause your key to remain inside the ignition. To determine if you are experiencing electrical problems, you can turn on the headlights or emergency indicator. If they do not come on, you can assume that there is an electrical problem. You will not have to waste another minute. Simply contact your local locksmith for further assistance.

 

• Wiggling your steering wheel might seem silly but by redistributing the weight of the frame from the front axle, you can get the key out. In extreme cases, you might jack up the front end of your car and then wiggle the steering column. This might just give you the results you need and you’ll be able to easily extract your key. This isn’t something that we would suggest you do if you don’t have some automotive repair experience. This is because you may not know the risks involved. If you are not an auto mechanic, your best bet is to rely on the services of a locksmith.

 

• There is a law that you may not be familiar with. It is the law of thermal expansion. It indicates that metal with heat applied to it will contract when they suddenly become cold. This means that you wouldn’t be able to shrink your key while the ignition cylinder is expanding. However, we have seen the use of a hairdryer work to disengage a key. Heat is directly applied to the cylinder and the exposed part of the key is chilled with ice. This helps maneuver things so that the key will come out without incident.

 

• Applying heat to both the cylinder and the key may also help. Metal is also known to become more flexible when heat is applied to it. On the other hand, a heated key can also become disfigured and warped. This is a method that should be done by someone who has experience in extracting keys, like a professional locksmith from Locksmith Evanston. They will know and understand the precautions that need to be applied when attempting to extract a key with heat.

These are some common ways to help remedy your ignition key problem. As you may have already noticed, there if a measure of risks involved with handling an ignition problem on your own. You might want to learn more about what is done to help with your ignition problems. Consulting with a professional locksmith will allow you this opportunity. This may not be a problem that you will experience too often but when it does occur, we find that most motorists want to know what can be done to remedy the issue without further damaging the ignition. A locksmith can offer you a quick and efficient fix so that you can get on with the rest of your day.

What You Should Do When You Have Ignition Problems

Even if you have a newer car, you can still experience a problem with your ignition. This is simply the way things are, not all of the time but sometimes. In some instances, it is just unavoidable. You stick your key in the ignition and nothing! We’ve seen this happen too many times at Locksmith Pro Evanston in Evanston, IL. If you begin to notice problems with your ignition, it is best to address the problem quickly before the problem gets worse. In some instances, you might even have to replace your ignition altogether. Sometimes, the key will even break off in the ignition making the problem even worse than it already is. When you have a problem with your ignition, you may not know the first thing to do. We have put together some helpful information that just might help alleviate some of your anxiety. It could be something as simple as your key in the wrong position. Knowing what to do when there is ignition trouble may also enable you to help a fellow motorist.

Based on the type of car you have, you may actually be able to resolve the matter on your own. There are various ignition cylinder designs. This means that there could easily be different solutions to help remedy your ignition issue. Some ignition cylinders only require that you lightly wiggle the steering column back and forth in order to successfully release a key that is stuck. This is a technique that has proven to work for several motorist and we believe it is worth the effort of trying in order to get back on your way as quickly as possible. The one thing you want to try to avoid is breaking the key in the ignition. It makes the situation more complicated and you might have to depend on the services of a locksmith to extract the key.

We offer a host of solutions for your ignition problems. Cars are built on robotic assembly lines and they have more parts than they used to. This makes it easier to damage the parts that are being applied. A small problem can easily turn into a much larger problem and cause a complete system break down. The suggestions offered should only be applied by someone who has some technical skills. Even when someone is opting to handle the problem for you, remember that they will not likely assume financial responsibility if something they do causes the problem to become worse. The following suggestions might be of use to you.

• Always make sure that the gear is in ‘park’ when you are not moving. If the gear is in ‘drive’ when not in use, the built in safety feature will prevent you from removing your key. Also make sure your break is applied to prevent your car from rolling.

 

• If the car is not turned out but is still in the on position, this will also prevent you from being able to remove the car key. This is a feature that was designed to avoid disabling your engine while in use. This could damage your engine and even cause a crash.

 

 

• The key release feature in recently designed cars are powered electronically. If you have a dead battery, this might cause your key to remain inside the ignition. To determine if you are experiencing electrical problems, you can turn on the headlights or emergency indicator. If they do not come on, you can assume that there is an electrical problem. You will not have to waste another minute. Simply contact your local locksmith for further assistance.

 

• Wiggling your steering wheel might seem silly but by redistributing the weight of the frame from the front axle, you can get the key out. In extreme cases, you might jack up the front end of your car and then wiggle the steering column. This might just give you the results you need and you’ll be able to easily extract your key. This isn’t something that we would suggest you do if you don’t have some automotive repair experience. This is because you may not know the risks involved. If you are not an auto mechanic, your best bet is to rely on the services of a locksmith.

 

• There is a law that you may not be familiar with. It is the law of thermal expansion. It indicates that metal with heat applied to it will contract when they suddenly become cold. This means that you wouldn’t be able to shrink your key while the ignition cylinder is expanding. However, we have seen the use of a hairdryer work to disengage a key. Heat is directly applied to the cylinder and the exposed part of the key is chilled with ice. This helps maneuver things so that the key will come out without incident.

 

• Applying heat to both the cylinder and the key may also help. Metal is also known to become more flexible when heat is applied to it. On the other hand, a heated key can also become disfigured and warped. This is a method that should be done by someone who has experience in extracting keys, like a professional locksmith from Locksmith Evanston. They will know and understand the precautions that need to be applied when attempting to extract a key with heat.

These are some common ways to help remedy your ignition key problem. As you may have already noticed, there if a measure of risks involved with handling an ignition problem on your own. You might want to learn more about what is done to help with your ignition problems. Consulting with a professional locksmith will allow you this opportunity. This may not be a problem that you will experience too often but when it does occur, we find that most motorists want to know what can be done to remedy the issue without further damaging the ignition. A locksmith can offer you a quick and efficient fix so that you can get on with the rest of your day.

WHAT TO DO TO PREVENT LOCKOUTS

Can lockouts be prevented 100%? No, of course not! Can their rate of incidence be lowered? For sure they can! All it takes is a few easy to implement steps. Locksmith Pro Evanston is often asked about lockout prevention. Read on and see what we recommend to our local Evanston, IL customers that ask us about this subject.

Why listen to us?

Our Evanston, IL lock professionals handle lockout situations on a regular basis. After helping many locals with lockouts at home, at their cars or at their businesses, we feel that we know a thing or two about this dreaded occurrence that happens to most everyone at some point or other. If you are locked out, you obviously don’t have to call us but we do encourage you to call a 24-hour mobile lock professional, and get back inside safely and in a timely manner.

Residential lockouts

One of the most common forms of lockouts is the one that happens at home. This may be due to the fact that we are so relaxed while at home; we tend to let “our guard down” and in the process, we might not notice an already locked door. Many people simply walk outside to bring in the newspaper or to fetch the mail and somehow manage to close the locked door behind them. One common scenario is when a person goes out through the garage and closes the garage door thinking that the front door is unlocked when it really isn’t. There are so many locks and locking mechanisms in and around our homes. We have locks on front and back doors, bedrooms, bathrooms, basements, home offices, gates, garage doors, mailboxes, cabinets, gun safes and sometimes even pet doors!

Auto lockouts

Lockouts involving our automotive vehicles count for most of the calls for help that our Evanston locksmiths receive. It’s ironic, too as most cars only have a few locks – car door, trunk and ignition. Sometimes there are locks on the glove compartment or maybe the console but those don’t affect full auto lockouts. The most common reason that people lock themselves out of their car is that they get distracted. We are a nation of multi-taskers and we often try and do many things while driving. The legal ones include watching the road, having a conversation, listening to the radio, talking on the speaker phone, etc. Too often people are also texting, eating, reading something or even adjusting hair or makeup! It’s no wonder that sometimes keys are left dangling in the ignition as we exit our locked cars in order to fetch a pizza or pick up our dry cleaning.

Commercial lockouts

These happen all the time, but unless it happens to you or to one of your co-workers, you usually don’t hear about it. Business lockout situations can happen to owners, managers, stock holders, employees, vendors and even customers. Think about it; all businesses contain goods, services, cash or equipment. Therefore they use locks and locking hardware to secure those things. It is estimated that there are over 30 million businesses in the US alone so you can imagine how many lockouts occur on a regular basis! While not all of them happen here in Evanston, IL we do get our fair share! (We know!).

What you can do about lockouts

So, is there any way to prevent lockouts, at least a little bit? We give this question a resounding YES! One thing you can do is fast, easy and simple. In fact, you can practice this at home, at your car or at your workplace or business. It’s this; put your keys in their place. No, don’t tell them off; put them in the same location each time you are through with them. For example, hang them up on a hook or nail when at home. Or, put them in the same place on the dresser or kitchen counter when you are not using them. Good habits are learned through repetition and doing this proper key placement over and over will lead to losing them less frequently and knowing where they are when you are about to go somewhere.

Make a spare (or two!)

Spare keys can be a lifesaver! They can also fast become a nightmare. It all depends on how you use them. If you do what many others do and leave one under the door mat, you might as well hang a banner over your garage proclaiming that you are ready for robbing! Be smart and make a couple of spares. Be really smart as well as choosy by being selective in whom you give one to. You don’t know your neighbor well? Don’t give him a spare key!

You can give a spare key to your house, car or even to your business to someone that you trust. Family members, close friends and maybe co-workers might get one too. Keep the phone number to your spare key person logged in your smart phone. Also be sure to add our shop number or that of another trusted Evanston, IL locksmith; just in case. It’s a proven fact that most people keep their smart phones nearby at all times. Many even sleep with their phone under the pillow! In fact, we tend to keep better track of our mobile devices than we do our keys! This is why it is important to have some vital phone numbers in your contacts list. One would be to an experienced and licensed locksmith. Be sure that your lock and key technician of choice is available 24/7 for emergencies and that he charges affordable rates along with doing quality work. Also, keep your spare key contacts stored in there as well.

Hide spare keys where YOU know where to find them, not others! Inside the backyard BBQ grill is a good idea and so is hiding a key in the HVAC unit or inside your dog’s collar. Use your imagination but remember; don’t be obvious!

WHAT TO DO TO PREVENT LOCKOUTS

Can lockouts be prevented 100%? No, of course not! Can their rate of incidence be lowered? For sure they can! All it takes is a few easy to implement steps. Locksmith Pro Evanston is often asked about lockout prevention. Read on and see what we recommend to our local Evanston, IL customers that ask us about this subject.

Why listen to us?

Our Evanston, IL lock professionals handle lockout situations on a regular basis. After helping many locals with lockouts at home, at their cars or at their businesses, we feel that we know a thing or two about this dreaded occurrence that happens to most everyone at some point or other. If you are locked out, you obviously don’t have to call us but we do encourage you to call a 24-hour mobile lock professional, and get back inside safely and in a timely manner.

Residential lockouts

One of the most common forms of lockouts is the one that happens at home. This may be due to the fact that we are so relaxed while at home; we tend to let “our guard down” and in the process, we might not notice an already locked door. Many people simply walk outside to bring in the newspaper or to fetch the mail and somehow manage to close the locked door behind them. One common scenario is when a person goes out through the garage and closes the garage door thinking that the front door is unlocked when it really isn’t. There are so many locks and locking mechanisms in and around our homes. We have locks on front and back doors, bedrooms, bathrooms, basements, home offices, gates, garage doors, mailboxes, cabinets, gun safes and sometimes even pet doors!

Auto lockouts

Lockouts involving our automotive vehicles count for most of the calls for help that our Evanston locksmiths receive. It’s ironic, too as most cars only have a few locks – car door, trunk and ignition. Sometimes there are locks on the glove compartment or maybe the console but those don’t affect full auto lockouts. The most common reason that people lock themselves out of their car is that they get distracted. We are a nation of multi-taskers and we often try and do many things while driving. The legal ones include watching the road, having a conversation, listening to the radio, talking on the speaker phone, etc. Too often people are also texting, eating, reading something or even adjusting hair or makeup! It’s no wonder that sometimes keys are left dangling in the ignition as we exit our locked cars in order to fetch a pizza or pick up our dry cleaning.

Commercial lockouts

These happen all the time, but unless it happens to you or to one of your co-workers, you usually don’t hear about it. Business lockout situations can happen to owners, managers, stock holders, employees, vendors and even customers. Think about it; all businesses contain goods, services, cash or equipment. Therefore they use locks and locking hardware to secure those things. It is estimated that there are over 30 million businesses in the US alone so you can imagine how many lockouts occur on a regular basis! While not all of them happen here in Evanston, IL we do get our fair share! (We know!).

What you can do about lockouts

So, is there any way to prevent lockouts, at least a little bit? We give this question a resounding YES! One thing you can do is fast, easy and simple. In fact, you can practice this at home, at your car or at your workplace or business. It’s this; put your keys in their place. No, don’t tell them off; put them in the same location each time you are through with them. For example, hang them up on a hook or nail when at home. Or, put them in the same place on the dresser or kitchen counter when you are not using them. Good habits are learned through repetition and doing this proper key placement over and over will lead to losing them less frequently and knowing where they are when you are about to go somewhere.

Make a spare (or two!)

Spare keys can be a lifesaver! They can also fast become a nightmare. It all depends on how you use them. If you do what many others do and leave one under the door mat, you might as well hang a banner over your garage proclaiming that you are ready for robbing! Be smart and make a couple of spares. Be really smart as well as choosy by being selective in whom you give one to. You don’t know your neighbor well? Don’t give him a spare key!

You can give a spare key to your house, car or even to your business to someone that you trust. Family members, close friends and maybe co-workers might get one too. Keep the phone number to your spare key person logged in your smart phone. Also be sure to add our shop number or that of another trusted Evanston, IL locksmith; just in case. It’s a proven fact that most people keep their smart phones nearby at all times. Many even sleep with their phone under the pillow! In fact, we tend to keep better track of our mobile devices than we do our keys! This is why it is important to have some vital phone numbers in your contacts list. One would be to an experienced and licensed locksmith. Be sure that your lock and key technician of choice is available 24/7 for emergencies and that he charges affordable rates along with doing quality work. Also, keep your spare key contacts stored in there as well.

Hide spare keys where YOU know where to find them, not others! Inside the backyard BBQ grill is a good idea and so is hiding a key in the HVAC unit or inside your dog’s collar. Use your imagination but remember; don’t be obvious!

IF YOUR SAFE WON’T OPEN, HERE’S WHAT TO DO!

Have you found yourself in a pickle with your safe? If you can’t open your safe, it’s never at a convenient time, and it’s always so unsettling. But you don’t have to let it get to you. Most often, when a safe malfunctions, it remains locked. Let’s look at some common causes for your safe failing. There are a good number of steps you can take before you will need to call a safe technician.

Your safe is in lockout mode. If you enter too many wrong codes in a row, the safe might go into a penalty-lockout mode. Depending on what type of keypad you have, you may hear some fast beeps. In that case, wait for 10 to 20 minutes. Afterwards, your safe should open.

Dead batteries. Maybe there’s enough power to work the keypad, but not enough for the bolt work to function. If the keypad lights up and beeps normally, you can resolve the problem as soon as you replace your batteries. Choose a reputable brand, because off-brands will lose power faster than the top-name brands.

Deactivated code. It may be that your safe isn’t opening because the code has been deactivated unintentionally. If that’s all it is, reset it, and your safe will open.

The wiring is damaged and/or disconnected. The safe’s wiring might be disconnected. Perhaps it has to be repaired. Inspect the wiring behind the keypad, and you’ll be able to see whether any wires are kinked, loose, or cut.

• If all’s well, disconnect the wire temporarily from the keypad, and take out the batteries. Wait for about 20 seconds. Now reconnect the wiring, put the batteries back in, and it ought to work.
• If the wiring is damaged, you must call an expert safe technician.

Time delay. Does the safe have a time-delay feature? If so, then you’ll have to wait for a specific time period (often 10 to 20 minutes). After that, input the code again, and now it should work.

Are you inputting the correct combination, but your safe still isn’t opening? If the safe has the traditional three-wheel combination lock (3 digits) then take these steps:

1.Turn the dial to the left 4 times, until the first digit of the combination aligns with the opening index. On the fourth time, stop exactly on your number.

2.Turn the dial to the right 3 times, until the second digit of your combination aligns with the opening index. On the third time, stop spot on your number.

3.Turn the dial to the left twice, until the third digit of the combination aligns with the opening index. On the second time, stop precisely on your number.

4.Turn the dial to the right, till it stops (around 95). If the dial doesn’t stop, then do your regular opening procedure over again, dialing each digit of the combination accurately. Keep in mind that the safe will stay locked if you stop the dial even just slightly past any number where you meant to halt.

5.To lock your combination lock again, turn the dial 4 full revolutions, and make sure to stop on any number that isn’t in your combination.

The bolt work could be jammed. Is the motor working to retract the bolt work, yet it still doesn’t open? Then bang on the door with a mallet. Or, kick it. Go ahead! We’re not kidding! This will be successful ~ as long as you don’t pound the keypad or the handle! If you do it correctly, it will loosen the bolt work. Then you can attempt to pull the handle in the opposite direction of what you usually do; now, enter the code. If you’re fortunate, this will release the extra pressure on the bolt, and the handle will move smoothly.

What if your safe still won’t open? There’s no doubt now: You need to call a safe technician. Don’t drill your safe, or you’ll render it irreparable!

What if your safe stays open, and won’t shut? Investigate these issues:

1.First, replace the batteries. Use a top brand; they’ll last longer.

2.Make sure that the edges of the cover are aligned. Be sure that in the edges there is no debris.

3.Confirm that the bolts are not damaged. Make sure that the holes they go into aren’t being blocked by debris.

4.Try “locking” the safe, even while the door’s open. If the locking mechanism is still working, then the problem is elsewhere.

5.Lubricate the lock mechanism. If the spring sticks, lubrication should solve everything. Bear in mind that the lubricant needed for a combination lock is different from the graphite-based lubricant required for a keyed lock.

Did you misplace your combination? You’ll have to hire a safe technician who possesses the knowledge and expertise it takes to open your safe. An experienced safe technician will surely make your safe more secure than ever, without damaging it.

One erroneous notion regarding getting your safe opened by a professional is that the safe will automatically be damaged during the process ~ but this definitely won’t occur if you locate a legitimate, highly qualified safe technician. Be skeptical of anyone who doesn’t have the proper credentials. Find a safe technician of integrity whom you can count on completely ~ an individual who is suitably insured, fully licensed, appropriately bonded, thoroughly background-checked, and officially certified. Choose an individual who will bring the right tools, with the required skill and sensitivity with sound and touch.

DON’T try to “crack” your own safe! Opening safes, and taking care of combination locks (mechanical or digital), are specialized tasks requiring exacting precision, and exceptional skill and experience. Hire an expert safe technician who has a comprehensive understanding of the locking methods and maintenance requirements of today’s safes.

If you’re anywhere in Evanston, Illinois, consider Locksmith Pro Evanston, where free consultations are available anytime with a mobile staff safe professional. Get all your questions answered to your satisfaction from a reliable technician before you give permission for any work to start