We’ve all been there. We’ve all had those unique situations where we think leaving keys in the letterbox will be safe. Perhaps you’re headed out for a run and don’t want the annoyance of keys jingling in your pocket, so you opt to toss them in your letterbox. After all…who’s really paying attention?
Or you might realise, as you’re heading out of town on vacation, that you forgot to drop off a key with your best friend so he can water your plants. You think to yourself, I’ll just leave the keys in the letterbox, and he can pick them up after work. Surely, they’ll be fine for a few hours.
But the sad truth is, that your letterbox is one of the worst places you can stash a spare key. Why? Because it’s one of the first places criminals will look. Other spots that earn honourable mention for the worst places to hide keys include under flowerpots, beneath doormats, resting on the trim above doors, and don’t forget about those terrible faux hide-a-key rocks that might as well light up and play a recorded message that says key hidden here!
So, now that we’ve made it clear you should never…under any circumstances…leave a key in your letterbox for any length of time, you be wondering, Ok…so where can I safely stow a spare key?
We’re glad you asked. We’ve gathered a list of 4 options you can try instead that will keep you and your family safe.
Use Your Secure Garage
If you have a garage that has keypad access, consider hiding a spare key somewhere inside and giving friends or neighbours the code for the garage door. Yes, it takes a bit longer for them to retrieve the key, but it will give you peace of mind knowing your key isn’t sitting in an unlocked letterbox where anyone can get their hands on it.
Install a Lockbox
Passcode-protected lockboxes are available at a variety of price points at most hardware stores. The box can be mounted in an inconspicuous place on the exterior of your home and requires the use of a code to access the key. These are great for joggers or walkers who don’t want to carry keys on their run.
Be Old Fashioned and Give Out a Key
Sure, it’s a little traditional and it requires a certain level of trust in the key recipient but giving a spare key to a trusted friend or neighbour is certainly a better option than leaving a key unguarded in your letterbox.
Install a Keyless Entry System
Keyless entry systems are the wave of the future when it comes to home security. Once installed, the system allows you (or anyone to whom you provide a code) to easily access your home without using a key. Simply enter your passcode into the number pad on the door and…voila!…you’re inside in a matter of seconds.
Most keyless systems will allow you to create unique codes for different people, and you can activate or deactivate them as needed.
If you decide you’d like to explore the keyless entry option for your home, we hope you’ll contact us at One & Only. Our expert locksmiths can help you find the right system for your home and take care of any other security concerns you may have.
With One & Only you can rest assured that your family’s security is our top priority.