The holidays are fast approaching, and for many, this means spending time away from home. But before you consider handing out keys to friends and neighbours so they can water plants and feed pets, you may want to consider installing a key safe at your home. Here are some key points straight from a locksmith’s mouth.
What is a key safe?
We’re glad you asked! A key safe is a small box that allows homeowners and renters to keep a key to the home safely stored outside. The box attaches to an exterior wall and is accessed by entering a combination on a high-security lock.
Do they really work?
They do! And their usefulness isn’t limited to getting friends and neighbours into your home while you’re away. We’ve all experienced that dreaded feeling of locking ourselves out of our homes. With a key safe, gaining access is as easy as entering your combination on the lock.
Benefits of Installing a Key Safe
Improves Home Security – Most homeowners think they’re fooling robbers by hiding a key around the front door of their home. They use places like the top of the door frame, underneath the door mat, or beneath a nearby pot plant. Some even go the extra mile and invest in a plastic caddy painted to look like a rock.
Here’s the problem—thieves are just as familiar with these hiding spots as you are and can find your key with ease. A discreetly hidden key safe ensures only you or those you trust can access your key.
Saves Money – When you lock yourself out of your home, you’re usually left with two options: break a window or call a locksmith, both of which can be costly.
With a key safe, you can quickly and easily gain access to your home without having to pay for locksmith services or a window replacement.
Helpful During Emergencies – If you are home alone and experience a medical emergency, you may not be able to open the door for first responders. Having a key safe allows you to give your code to emergency responders over the phone so they can quickly enter your home (without breaking in) and get you the help you need.
Tips to Consider When Installing a Key Safe
Keep it Hidden
This isn’t like the lockbox you often see hanging from the front door of homes being sold. Your key safe should not be in plain sight on the front of your home. Choose an exterior location for your safe that cannot be viewed from the street or front walk. A side of the house where shrubs or hedges block the view of the box would be ideal.
Consider Mounting a Security Camera
Security cameras themselves are great at deterring thieves, but having one point in the area of your key safe will alert you should anyone come snooping for your safe.
Change Your Combination Regularly
It’s always a good idea to change the combination on your key safe at regular intervals. Plan on changing your combination every couple of months or after you’ve given it to someone who won’t need access again (like a repairman, delivery person, or plant/pet sitter).
If you’d like to have a key safe installed on the exterior of your home, we’d love for you to contact us at One & Only. Our team of expert locksmiths are here for your peace of mind and will take care of installation quickly, ensuring your home is safe, secure, and easily accessible to you in the event of an emergency.
About Us:
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