Locksmith Hampton: Various Kinds of Locks

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With all of the different kinds of locks in existence, it can be challenging to know where to start if you are looking for new locks for your property. Do you start with knob locks? What exactly is a knob lock and how does it differ from mortise locks? These are questions that tend to come up when people are looking around for brand new locks. There are different options for different concerns, as well as different materials and finishes. You can find locks that are on the high end of the cost spectrum, but you can also find locks that are affordable but still sturdy. A lock and security provider can point you in the right direction if you provide them with your budget and any information regarding your concerns. But if you are just looking for a starting point, have a look at some of the information provided. This will help to give you a better idea of what is available to you.

Lock Types

• Combination Locks – These are locks that entail the use of a series of numbers, symbols or even letters. Knowing the appropriate sequence is what enables the lock to open. Typically, a combination lock will have a rotating dial as well as a keypad entry. You can find these locks in electronic, single dial and multiple dial form. You might use this kind of lock if you have a locker at school or work that needs to be kept closed, or if you have a safe that otherwise doesn’t have a locking mechanism.
• Knob locks – These are found on internal and external doors, primary at residences. They are made up of a key cylinder on one side and a turning knob on the other side. You might have a knob lock on a door that opens to your bedroom, so that you can enjoy privacy at home, but you wouldn’t have this kind of lock on your front door or on a door that serves as a primary point of entry to your property. Why? Because they can easily be picked open, but they allow privacy in bedrooms and bathrooms if needed.
• Deadbolts – Deadbolts typically accompany knob locks or other types of locks for additional security. A rotating cylinder is turned to lock a bolt. There are different kinds of deadbolts available, which include:
• Single cylinder deadbolts
• Thumb turn deadbolts
• Double cylinder deadbolts
• Keyless deadbolts

 

• Padlocks – Padlocks are portable locks which makes them quite convenient. There are various sizes available, but all of the different variations are comprised of three primary parts – shackle, lock body and locking mechanism. You can get combination or keyed padlocks, and both are very beneficial.

 

• Mortise locks – Mortise locks work by joining a non-locking spring latch controlled by means of a lever, and a deadbolt locking mechanism. These locks are sturdy and thereby difficult to break – if you’re looking to prevent a break in, then you might want to consider mortise locks.

 

• Lever handle locks – You will commonly find lever handle locks at businesses. This sort of lock has a rotating door knob as well as a key cylinder. They are found on doors that need to be easily opened and closed through the use of a lever handle – a business with many people who are in and out every day will need this type of door handle. This way, in an emergency, people can exit quickly.

 

• Cam locks – A cam lock might be found on a lock box or even a cabinet. You wouldn’t use this kind of lock to secure a front door, but you would use it to secure a file cabinet.

Choose the best locks for your needs

Hampton Safe Lock

There might be confusion, as mentioned, when it comes to selecting the best locks for your property and your needs. Getting on the phone with a lock and security provider can prove very beneficial. You will likely have a lot of questions. Going directly to the right source can save a lot of time and frustration. Locksmith Hampton provides services to locals in Hampton, Virginia. This team of experts is able to provide free consultations to customers, so they can have all of their questions answered. Perhaps you are reading this from a different part of the country. Not to worry. Just do an online search and pull up a professional that is in your location. Try searching for “locksmith in [your city]” and then see what comes up. Through sites such as Yelp and Angie’s List, and even Facebook, you will be able to see reviews from real people who have previously used the services of said business. Look for a company that comes highly rated – this will help you to have more confidence when you hire them for the job, whether it is for new lock installation, lock replacement, lock repairs or anything else. You will also be able to trust that if you do hire them, they will do a great job.

It is important that your property and belongings are kept safe. Unfortunately, there are people who are dishonest in the world, and they look to take advantage of people who have items which aren’t locked up. With the right locks, you can ensure that your property can’t be broken into – or at the very least, it would be extremely difficult to get to your most valuable items. Now that you have a better idea of the various kinds of locks which are available, start to narrow down the choices. Then, be sure to purchase the best ones for your needs. There are various kinds of commercial and residential locks available today – whether you want to go keyless, or you want something portable, there is certainly something for you. Best of luck in your property protection! Be sure to call a locksmith with any questions or concerns.

THE VITAL IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A GUN SAFE

Obey the law. You need to know the details of your local state laws. In most states and in the District of Columbia, the law requires that your guns must be locked up in order to prevent any access to children ~ in most cases even if you don’t have your own children. You’ll probably be breaking the law if any child ever gets a hold of your firearm. Penalties vary for allowing a child to have access to a gun; but the truth is, you will most likely be held accountable for negligent storage, whether or not a child indeed does gain access to your gun or uses the gun to cause an injury or death.

Keep thieves away when you own a heavy-duty gun safe. Otherwise, a burglar might steal and resell your gun, or use it in a crime. The unthinkable may occur: For instance, someone could steal your gun, and, use it to commit a robbery. If that person shoots and kills someone in the process of a crime, then if you didn’t have a safe, the victim’s family has the right to claim that your weapon was improperly stored, and they could choose to file a lawsuit against you. It’s so much better to safeguard your weapons in a safe, because if your guns are ever stolen, it will help significantly when you can prove that you already had the correct measures in place for keeping the weapons secure and safe.

A robber might break into your home without doing any damage. In that case, if you can’t prove that there was a forced entry, then if you don’t have evidence that you kept your guns locked in an appropriate safe, this fact could work against you should someone commit a crime using your gun, particularly if the individual is someone you know.

Maintain absolute safety. You want to be a responsible gun owner: Always safeguard your guns. Don’t risk any dangerous or grave circumstances that could happen if any of your guns were to get into the wrong hands.

A legitimate gun safe will properly keep your guns away from potential criminals, and, most importantly, away from children and youth. The fact is: No one besides you, the owner ~ not children, teenagers, friends, family members, babysitters, care-givers, house-sitters, exchange students, neighbors, and so forth ~ should be able to have access to your weapons.

Therefore, let there be no doubt: If you own a gun, it’s utterly essential to safely maintain your weapons at all times by storing them in a dependable gun safe. Access control is fundamental. Whether you own a gun for protection, work, target practice, skeet shooting, or hunting, you must have your weapons appropriately stored.

Fully insure your guns. Protecting your guns in a high-quality safe might actually be the only way you’ll know that your weapons are completely insured. Guarding your weapons inside a safe can frequently mean you’ll get a discount on your insurance premium. Just ask. Look at your firearm coverage limitations and check the parameters of your home or renter’s insurance policy. Your insurance company might dictate that you keep your guns in a certified gun safe, and may even require that you install an alarm. Depending on the number of guns you own, and what kind of weapons they are, ask about adding a rider to extend your coverage. If you own a lot of guns, your insurance company’s safe certification rules may compel you to put your gun collection in more than one safe, in order to reduce the likelihood of it all being stolen at one go. If you were ever to make an insurance claim, being able to demonstrate that you took all the proper measures to protect your valuables makes it much more likely that you will be compensated for your loss.

You may be able to save on your taxes. In some states, gun safes are exempt from sales tax. Some states provide a tax credit if you purchase a gun safe. A federal tax credit may also be possible.

Protect your weapons from flood and fire. A prime-quality waterproof and fire-rated gun safe gives you optimum protection from water or fire damage for your guns and additional valuables, in case of flood or fire.

Protect your investment. Some guns are replaceable or can be upgraded. But vintage weapons are often irreplaceable, plus they may hold sentimental value for you. With the right gun safe for you, you’ll efficiently keep all your firearms away from burglars.

With a premium-quality safe, you’ll guard your other valuables. When you have a reliable safe to keep your guns effectively secure, as well as well-protected from fire, flood, and theft, you may as well include additional valuable items, also. Because a gun safe is usually extraordinary sizeable, you should have some room left for significant items such as jewelry, passports, emergency cash, property deeds, tax records, birth certificates, stock certificates, collectibles, and photographs.

You’ll automatically have extra home protection. If you own a firearm for protection, in the case of an emergency, of course you’ll want to get easy access to your gun. Some manufacturers make their gun safes with locks which you can open in just seconds. Obviously, it’s imperative that you be the only one who knows how to open it.

Store your guns in style. Most folks agree: Wherever you display your exceptional-quality gun safe, it’s fairly attractive. Often having a polished finish, and ornamented with shiny hardware, a gun safe’s amazing weight and size are impressive.

Take precautions with your concealed-carry weapon. If you have a license to carry a concealed weapon, adhere to the legal requirements pertaining to your city and state. A portable gun safe, for example, is a good choice for your vehicle.

How do you choose the best gun safe for you? If you’re located anywhere in Hampton, Virginia, and you wonder which gun safe is right for what you have, it will be helpful to consult with a trustworthy local company, such as Locksmith Hampton, where the mobile staff safe specialists are glad to share their expertise so you can make well-informed decisions regarding your home’s security.

Locksmith Hampton: Garage Door Locks for Additional Security

It is important that you maintain your garage door security, as well as upgrade it, to prevent unauthorized or unwanted access to your garage, which might lead directly into your home. In order to ensure your garage door is secure, you need access to quality garage door locks. Locksmith Hampton provides residential, automotive and commercial security solutions throughout the Hampton, VA area but no matter where you are located, you should be able to find a locksmith in your city that can assist in relation to garage door locks. There are actually all sorts of options if you are looking to securing your garage door, and the experts have put them all together for you in a way that is easy to understand. From deadbolts to locks that can secure even the biggest garage doors, you will find options which could definitely benefit you and your property. Read on for more information and be sure to get in touch with a local professional to ensure the safety and security of your valuable property.

Don’t Rely Only On The Garage Door Remote Control/Opener System

There are garage door locks available which can lock even the biggest garage door. If you’re like most homeowners, you might have a remote control that you can use to open and close your garage door. This is very convenient and helps you to avoid having to use physical strength or energy to lift open the garage door. It is convenient because it saves you from having to step out of your vehicle until you are safely inside of your garage. There are many benefits that come along with using a garage door opener. The problem is that this often times isn’t enough to keep out criminals who really want to get in. So, the remote control that you use isn’t enough to properly lock the door. If a person wanted to, they might even be able to open your garage door just like they would your car door. They could use a tool such as a coat hanger to do the trick, if they had enough skill. As a matter of fact, a similar scenario was presented on the popular TV show Shark Tank. You definitely don’t want to rely solely on a garage door remote control to keep your door locked up.

So what else can you do? You should look into the different locks which are available for property protection for this part of your property, whether you are concerned about a residential or commercial garage door. There are garage door locks that are compatible with both automatic and manual garage doors. Certain ones will still allow you to operate your garage door in the same way you always have – which usually entails pressing just a single button on a remote control. There are internal/external operated locks which are the best option for Integral Garages. They can be fitted to the garage door either horizontally or vertically. If you have an up and over garage door or a sectional garage door then you can find security garage door bolts that will work for you. If you do an online search, you’re going to see things such as:

• Garage Door Side Locks for 2 or 3 Inch Tracks
• Garage and Shed Latches – Tamper Proof, Heavy Duty Steel
• Garage Door Inside Deadlocks
• Garage Door Deadbolts
• Garage Defender Masters
• Secure Universal Garage Door Lock Kits
• Key Shutter Padlocks
• Garage Door Bolts
• Quick Release Locks
• And so much more!

 

Do Your Research and Call An Expert!

A quick search on a site such as Amazon.com will reveal plenty of options for additional security for garage doors. As a matter of fact, there are so many selections that things can get confusing. For reasons such as this, and because you might not know exactly what sort of lock options are available for your specific type of garage door, it is a wise idea to get on the phone with a professional. If you look up an expert locksmith in your city, you will likely find at least a handful of options. Look for places that offer competitive prices but also have excellent reviews from other customers. You want to know that you are hiring someone who will do a great job, so you won’t have to pay to clean up their mess or mistakes later. If you’re in Hampton, Virginia then you should definitely get in touch with Locksmith Hampton, as this is a company that is very well-known and highly reputable. But if you’re anywhere else, just be sure to do your research. If you call a local locksmith knowing what at least some of your options are as it relates to your garage door security, you will have a better idea of what to expect, and what sort of prices might come up.

There are many different companies which manufacture garage door locks. There are many different types and materials which are available. There are types of locks that have to be used on certain garage doors. An expert will want to know if you have a roll up garage door, sectional garage door, sliding garage door or something else. They will want to know the material that said door is made from. These are things that will help to point them in the right direction so they will be aware of which products to recommend to you. Talking to an expert before making a purchase can help you to avoid purchasing a lock that will not be compatible with your garage door. Just keep in mind that it is important to take advantage of features which provide additional security. Don’t wait until your property is broken into and someone enters through your garage. Take matters into your own hands now, and take advantage of quality garage door locks that will provide that extra security you are looking for. You deserve only the best!

Making Sure Your Home is As Secure As Possible

When you’re planning a trip away from home, you may be trying to figure out a lot of things before you hit the road. You might not realize that just locking up your home and leaving may not be enough to keep your home safe from a possible break-in. If you have had the misfortune of someone breaking into your home, you know that it isn’t a good feeling. You may lose sleep and never feel safe again. This isn’t anyway to live. No one should have to live like this and with a little forethought; you won’t have to.

 

An intruder is only looking for two things, not including your valuables, time and opportunity. If you are going away for any extended amount of time, this provides them with both of these things. If someone has been casing out your neighborhood, they may have already made your home a prime target without your even knowing it. When they know that you will not be returning, they will jump at the chance to get inside your home.

 

Ways to Avoid a Break-in

 

You might think that there is nothing you can do to avoid a break-in but you would be wrong. It is possible to deter a break-in if you are aware of the possibility of a break-in and take action to avoid it. Here are some practical solutions for avoiding a break-in.

 

Security Systems

 

If you don’t already have a security system, even the basic one, it is a good idea to begin thinking about investing in one. They are not as expensive as they used to be and there is no reason that anyone should have to be without one these days. Putting the lock on your door doesn’t seem to be enough to keep out intruders and this is why manufacturers are designing security systems that will suit the needs of everyone regardless of their budget. An intruder knows how to get inside even when the doors and windows are locked. They are scared off as soon as a security alarm goes off. Some people just have a security sign in their yard or on their door, anywhere that is visible to a possible intruder, to act as a deterrent against burglary.

 

If you are serious about protecting your home, you might even consider purchasing a security system with a surveillance camera. An intruder won’t usually risk being discovered and will often go in the other direction when a camera is detected. This is the type of thing that is worth the added expense. Just like you invest in your home, invest in protecting it by having a security system installed with a surveillance camera.

 

Finally, always double check that every door and window to your home is locked. You might think that simply because a door or window is not accessible without a ladder that no one will attempt to break-in, think again. A burglar will do whatever it takes to gain access. You can never be too careful.

 

Keep Vacation Plans to Yourself

 

This is where a lot of people go wrong. They announce to everyone on social media that they are going away on a vacation. While there is nothing wrong with going on vacation, it simply leaves your home susceptible to an intrusion. Don’t take chances by letting others know that you’ll be away; it could be your downfall. Giving out information about exactly when and where you are going, once again, gives a burglar time and opportunity. Our locksmiths at Locksmith Hampton in Hampton, VA suggest that you brag about your vacation AFTER you have returned home. This keeps your home secure. Posting this type of information on social media is a good way to get your home broken into. Avoid it and don’t start posting information about your vacation on social media.

 

Don’t leave any type of notes on your door or mailbox. If you’re expecting some type of service to be performed while you are away, give a key to a trusted friend, family member or neighbor to allow them in and out. We wouldn’t even suggest that you leave them inside your home alone. Get someone in that will keep an eye on the service technicians while they are in your home. You don’t want them leaving something in the door to gain access later. If at all possible, rearrange the service visit for when you’ll be home. If not, avoid leaving notes that can let others know that you are away.

 

Never Leave a Spare Key

 

Just because you’ve been leaving spare keys under pots, planters and mats and nothing has ever happened; doesn’t mean that it won’t, eventually. Keep your home safe by leaving a spare key with a neighbor instead of on your property. Some intruders will simply check the most obvious places and viola; they are in your home. It is strongly discouraged to leave a key on your property.

 

If you have people in and out of your home often, there is something called a smart key that uses a keypad to gain access, that you may want to have installed. You can program the keypad to accept a code that you provide to the person. When you no longer want them to have access, you simply deactivate it. This helps to keeps intruders out by maximizing your level of security and gives you peace-of-mind.

 

We think that these suggestions are rather simply and by implementing them, you are able to keep your home secure. Never assume that it can’t and will not happen to you. This is what an intruder is banking on. When you are not prepared, you make yourself more susceptible to a break-in. Do yourself and your loved ones a favor by making sure you keep your home as secure as possible at all times. You don’t have to become the next victim of a home invasion if you take the proper steps to avoid it.

Ignition Cylinder Problems – what to do about them!

It’s just something that happens; you turn the key and the car starts; right? Well, usually. The car starts if your ignition system is working correctly (and if you have the right key!). If something is wrong with your ignition cylinder then that’s another situation altogether!

Unless you are a mechanic or real familiar with cars, you probably don’t know too much about ignitions, and why would you? Actually, they aren’t that complicated. Automotive ignitions provide power to your car’s fuel system as well as power to your vehicle’s electrical components so that you can operate your radio, windshield wipers, headlights and other accessories. Since this action is so common, we hardly think about it – turn the key and off we go!

So what do you do when you turn that ignition key and nothing happens? Before you panic and start seeing the dollar signs add up in your head, relax and remember that you read this post by our experienced and knowledgeable automotive locksmiths here at Locksmith Hampton.

Battery Problems

Before you start calling Hampton, VA tow trucks and repair shops consider that the problem may be your car battery. There are some simple and fast ways to tell. Check and see if your dashboard lights come on. If you don’t see them, check to see if the dimmer switch is on. Many of us have been fooled by that crazy dimmer switch that can make us think that the batter is dead. You can also check your car radio, windshield wipers, emergency blinkers and headlights as they all run on battery power.

Stuck Items

Did your battery pass the test? Now what? Now, we check for stuck items in the ignition switch. Don’t laugh – it happens! Did your key go in without problem or did it feel “off” a bit and you thought that odd? Also, check to see if your steering wheel lock is on. On most models, this lock prevents the key from turning and your whole ignition problem could be as simple as that!

Are You In Park?

This is one of the most common reasons that ignitions won’t start. Here at Locksmith Hampton we often see this problem. In most cars, your ignition simply won’t turn over if the car is not in gear. This means PARK. Check to see. Try wiggling the shift a little to make sure. We urge you to use the parking brake when checking all these items. You have enough on your mind without the vehicle rolling back on someone or into the street. Often, the car is in Neutral or still in Drive so be extra sure that Park is what you have!

Is The Car’s Ignition Already Switched To On?

Sometimes the ignition key gets stuck and won’t come out. This is often the case when the ignition switch is already in the ON position. There’s a built-in safety mechanism that prevents the car from turning off when bumped. Imagine how horrible it would be if you were driving down the road and accidentally nudged the ignition switch, turning it off! Yikes! Carefully check to see that the car’s ignition is on OFF. Now remove the key and re-insert while trying to start the car. Is the key stuck completely? Don’t apply too much force; all you need on top of an ignition problem is a broken off and stuck key! Gently try and remove the key and if it seems jammed in there, gently rock the steering wheel back and forth and see if this dislodges it.

Should You Call A Friend?

Much like that famous game show where you are allowed to phone a friend if you get stuck, ignition problems allow that, too. Be careful though. If your friend is a mechanic or pretty experienced in working on cars; that might be great! Or, if your friend or family member is well meaning but not knowledgeable, it could spell disaster. Following the wrong advice can lead to bigger repair bills and ruined relationships so be choosy whom you call and what advice you take! Of course, you can always call our friendly and ever available automotive locksmiths here Locksmith Hampton. If you didn’t already know, we offer free consultations, free price quotes and fast, 24-hour service direct to your vehicle.

Google It!

Now, with the prevalence of smart phones, laptops, tablets and desktops, the internet is readily available pretty much anywhere you are. If you want a basically free dose of advice, check the World Wide Web. Simply type into your browser the subject you are looking for followed by the word “forum.” Let’s say you drive a Hyundai Elantra and you want to see what others have to say about ignition problems with this model. You could enter the words “Hyundai Elantra ignition problems forum” and you will see dozens of forum posts from people that experienced the same problem. You can post your own details or just read how others handled similar situations. You can also search popular video sites like YouTube and Vimeo as they have similar search bars. Keep in mind that some professionals post here too so all the comments are not from unhappy amateurs.

Call A Locksmith!

Are we biased? Of course! Locksmith Hampton knows the automotive lock business; in fact, we specialize in it. On the other hand, we don’t know your budget or particular circumstances. Do you need a free solution where you don’t mind waiting for the right solutions and their applications? The above tips work great for that! Are you in a hurry and/or do you have a small budget to help get results? In that case using an automotive locksmith in Hampton, VA is your best bet. There is no one-size fits all solution to ignition cylinder problems and their solutions. Each circumstance is different so it’s best that you follow your heart (and pocketbook!) and do what’s best for you. If you decide that professional locksmith service is the answer; don’t forget to give our friendly and always helpful staff at Locksmith Hampton a call!

 

 

TROUBLE WITH LOCKS AND KEYS? THERE’S ALWAYS A SOLUTION!

We use keys and locks every day ~ automotive, residential, and commercial ~ and we hardly ever give it a second thought. We usually don’t think about it…until that one time…when something goes wrong. It’s always unnerving, but there’s no reason to waste your time going worrying and wondering how you can fix the situation. There are many ways to keep yourself secure, and to avoid most of the problems with locks and keys that could come up.

Take Extra Security Measures

 

Depending upon your living situation, if you’d like to feel more safe and secure at your place of residence or at your place of business, there are plenty of ways to give yourself peace of mind.

 

Install deadbolts. Any professional locksmith will tell you that deadbolts are your best bet. Make sure they’re properly installed, with at least a 1-inch throw. On the strike side, there should be a security plate with screws at least 3 inches long that goes all the way into the door’s wooden frame. If you have a window on or near your door, a thumb-turn deadbolt won’t do you much good, because an intruder can break the glass, put a hand in, and turn. To prevent this disaster, get a double-cylinder deadbolt, which requires a key on the inside. There are many different types of deadbolts. Consult with an expert locksmith to learn all about them so you can choose what’s right for you and your property.

 

Some additional ways to provide further safety and security:

 

• hire a local, dependable experienced locksmith who is background-checked, bonded, certified, insured, and licensed
• keypads
• use only reputable superior-quality brands, at least a grade 2
• magnetic locks
• safeguard your valuables and crucial documents stored in a safe
• combination locks
• keyless remotes
• alarm systems

 

 

Take Preventive Measures to Maintain Your Locks

 

If you do what’s necessary to keep your locks in good shape, you may rarely need a locksmith will be rare. Keep an eye out for:

 

• rust
• trouble turning the key in the lock
• wear and tear
• difficulty putting the key into the lock mechanism

 

Should any of these issues arise, it is probably best to change your locks. Old and faulty locks are vulnerable to burglary. Worn-out locks are surely easier to pick and break. Nevertheless, there are things you can do to extend the life of your locks:

 

• If your key doesn’t turn, it’s because sometimes the pins can get jammed up. You may not need a locksmith if you spray the lock mechanism with WD-40 or silicone-based spray. This strategy can effectively solve the problem, so it’s worth a try.
• Routine lubrication. Anytime you notice any grinding or excess friction, apply a silicone-based spray to the keyholes around your property. As a routine, do it two times a year anyway.
• Periodically, replace your keys. We subject our keys to so much abuse, throwing them around, dropping them, and keeping them who knows where. Besides, we hastily use them in lock mechanisms day in and day out. So if you ever notice that your keys are beginning to show wear and tear, then it’s time to make a new key. Don’t forget to toss out the old ones.

 

When is it Absolutely Time to Change Your Locks?

 

• Following a break-in. If you’ve been robbed, then immediately all your outdoor locks, which are now vulnerable to another burglary, must be replaced.
• New tenants or roommates. If you rent out space in your house or apartment, or have any other rental properties of any kind, then you must replace locks each time you change occupants. Even if the last tenants gave you back their keys, you cannot ever be totally sure that there aren’t any spare keys jangling around out there.
• A new home. If you’ve just moved into a new home, then of course you ought to change your locks as soon as possible. Just as with rental properties, you simply never know which previous residents may still be in possession of their old keys.
• Lost keys. If you really have utterly lost your keys, then change your locks right away. You don’t want any intruders at your home.

 

 

What Should You Do if Your Key Breaks Off or Gets Stuck in the Lock?

 

Don’t be impatient with your keys! If you rush, you may find yourself stalled in your tracks, because you’ve broken your key right off in the lock! So slow down, and always take that few extra seconds with your key. You’ll definitely save yourself a lot of grief.

 

If your key breaks off inside the lock mechanism before you close the door, you won’t be able to lock it, which will leave you vulnerable to burglary. If your key breaks off inside the lock mechanism after you shut the door, you won’t be able to open the door again. A broken key can also damage the lock.

 

• If part of your key is stuck inside the lock, and you can see a little bit slightly sticking out, you may be able to pull it out yourself. If there’s enough of the key visible, you might be capable of getting it out with your fingers or with needle-nose pliers. If there’s any damage, then you’ll need to hire a professional locksmith.
• If you can’t see any part of your key sticking out of the lock, it’s risky to try anything yourself, because you may damage the lock. It could still be worth a shot, though. Use a flathead screwdriver small enough to fit in the keyhole. See if you can pry the key inside just to the point where it comes out of the lock a tiny bit. At this point, you may be able to remove it with pliers or your fingers.

 

 

It’s inevitable: There will be some time when you won’t be able to avoid hiring a locksmith. But don’t despair. If you’re in Hampton, Virginia, and you need an experienced professional locksmith you can count on, you’re in luck. Locksmith Hampton is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to come to the rescue!

This $32 gadget can steal your garage door code and hack your car locks

By Mike Wehner

How much do think it would cost to build a device that can wirelessly break into the majority of keyless entry systems and garage doors? $100? $200? $1,000?

Not even close.

Veteran gadget hacker Samy Kamkar built one for just $32 worth of electronic hardware, and it’s a burglar’s dream come true.

Kamkar, whose past exploits include hacking everything from drones to kids’ messaging gadgets, has developed a tiny device that listens closely to the radio signals sent by key fobs and garage-door openers. Once intercepted, the signal can then be duplicated by the device, acting like a universal opener for anyone who wants quick access to your property.

Read more: http://www.dailydot.com/technology/samy-kamkar-garage-car-hack/

Related Article: https://hackaday.com/2015/04/03/hack-a-lock-get-a-free-car/