Search This Blog

Saturday, December 31, 2011

New Year's Resolution: Protect Your Home, Family and Property

Take a few, simple steps to protect yourself from break-ins, burglaries, and home invasions in 2012.


  1. Ensure entry locks and deadbolts are installed and functioning correctly.
  2. Reinforce the door jamb, the weakest point of most doors.
  3. Reinforce the door edge. After the jamb, the door edge adjacent to the locks is the most vulnerable area.
  4. Reinforce the hinges. After the jamb and the door edge have been reinforced, the hinge area is the next most likely to fail.
  5. Upgrade your locks. With your door properly reinforced to prevent forced entry, it only makes sense to use quality locks that cannot be easily bypassed.
  6. Install and use a door viewer, and never open the door to a stranger.
Altic lock Service can install reinforcement to all vulnerable areas of the door - the jamb, the door edge, and the hinges. Galvanized steel reinforcement that will not rust, with a white powder-coat finish that can be painted, if desired. Complete single door reinforcement (jamb, door edge for two locks, and two hinges) can be had for $89 (plus tax) for parts and $75 installation labor.

Plus, for each door completely reinforced, you can opt to add a door viewer (U.L. listed, fire rated, 9/16 inch diameter, brass construction, glass lens, 200 degree viewing area) for just $12 (plus tax) with no additional charge for installation.

Plus, with complete reinforcement of at least one door, purchase a sliding door deadbolt ($40.60 plus tax) and we will install with no additional installation charges. These sliding door deadbolts prevent both prying and lifting of the door out of the tracks.

And finally, for each door completely reinforced, upgrade to Arrow brand locks available at list price with no additional charge for installation when installed at the time reinforcement is added.
Limited Time Offer!
See the Altic Lock Service website for more information.

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Prosecutors give safety reminders during holidays

Altic Lock Service had a table at today's Burglary Prevention Forum presented by the Marion County Prosecutor's Office Burglary Enforcement Strategy Team (B.E.S.T.). These forums provide a lot of useful information. We had displays set up to demonstrate common lock problems, and one of the forum attendees won a free copy of our book, "A Homeowner's Guide to Residential Door Security." WTHR's Kris Kirschner's report is viewable here.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Ask Sir Lock

Have a question about locks or basic security for your home or business? Ask Sir Lock!


Monday, November 28, 2011

Don't let this be you...

The Washington Post reports a man and his family found themselves locked out of their home. Not wanting to pay for a locksmith, he tried to get into the house through the chimney, with predictable results. This guy was no Santa - the fire department had to rescue him when he got stuck. Save yourself and the fire department the trouble - if you find yourself locked out, call a locksmith!

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Knock Knock - Who's There? Home Security Is No Laughing Matter!

Author: The Security Sensei

Not only should parents be concerned with who is on the other side of the door when someone comes knocking, it's important to teach our children to be just as cautious. With many home invaders disguising themselves as utility workers, delivery staff, and even law enforcement officers, it's important for you and your family to take the necessary steps to make sure the people who appear through your peephole as innocent-looking strangers aren't danger in disguise.

A story released by CBSAtlanta.com supports the deceptive strategies used by today's criminals. Recently in Atlanta, Georgia, a man wearing a bulletproof vest with the word Sheriff or Police printed on the front stepped onto a homeowner's porch with a gun drawn. After claiming to be a police officer, the homeowner became suspicious. He found it odd that a police officer would climb or jump over the gated 6-foot fence surrounding his property that he knew was locked. Instead of opening the door, the homeowner ran to the backyard to let his dog loose. It was then that the video from the home security camera captured the phony cop fleeing from the scene, along with two other individuals who were hiding nearby.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) of 2008, out of the 2.2 million violent crimes that occurred in a victim's home by a "stranger":

  • 15.9% involved rape/sexual assault
  • 7.2% involved robbery
  • 4.1% involved physical assault

This same report also shows that criminals don't discriminate. It doesn't matter if you live in a beautiful, well-manicured neighborhood or in an old apartment complex. Most criminals don't select their victims by level of income, race, or status. To them it's all about finding an easy target. This is why you need to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, no matter if you're at home or not. It's also important to have a basic home security plan in place to help safeguard your family when someone comes knocking at your door.

The following are a few home security tips that can help keep you and your family safe:

If you aren't expecting someone, don't open the door. Although this may sound like common sense, many people feel compelled to open the front door to what appears to be a police officer or utility worker. It's important to be cautious. If the person on the other side of the door identifies themselves as law enforcement or a representative of a utility company, with the door closed, ask for their name. After that call the agency or company they claim to be employed by to verify their identify.

Make sure your children have a way to see who's on the other side of the door without opening it. When you live on a block full of kids, it's easy for your children to assume the knock at the door is little Billy or Meagan wanting to know if they can come out and play. And no matter how many times you've told them "not" to open the door without your permission, in their excitement they forget and do it anyway. This is why it's important to take extra measures.

You can do this by installing an extra peephole at your child's eye level. Even better, replace your existing peephole with an electronic peephole viewer. At a cost of less than $100.00 dollars, this device utilizes a small battery-operated LCD screen to allow viewing the outdoors from multiple angles and heights from inside your home. It's a great device that even the smallest child in your family can use to see who's at the door without opening it.

Secure your door with a high quality door brace. Don't make the mistake of relying on a lock with a chain to protect you while you crack open the door to speak with someone. It doesn't take much force to break such a device. In these types of situations, you need a high quality door brace for protection. With a door brace installed 3 to 4 inches behind the interior of your front door, it has the ability to withstand a minimum of 1775 pounds of brute force. This unyielding barrier allows you to safely open your door a few inches to receive mail or small packages. In the case of larger packages, simply ask the delivery person to hand you the signature sheet through the door and leave the package on the doorstep.

Instill a "safety first" mentality in your children. It's not enough these days to rely on only yourself to keep your children safe. The more you teach your children about the potential dangers in the world and how to stay safe, the better they can protect themselves. In addition to teaching your children "why" and "how" to look to see who's at the door before opening it, it's just as important they follow the golden rule: NEVER OPEN THE DOOR TO A STRANGER!

You never know who is lurking on the other side of your door. Taking the time to fortify your home security plan will help protect you and your family from the potential dangers when unknown visitors come knocking.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-security-articles/knock-knock-whos-there-home-security-is-no-laughing-matter-5142886.html

About the Author

Jordan Frankel, commonly known as the Security Sensei develops revolutionary security products and solutions that protect both lives & property. Countless agencies and corporations such as NASDAQ, the US Military, and law enforcement entrust Mr. Frankel with their security and safety.

Jordan Frankel is also frequent media guest addressing the personal and financial consequences associated with home invasions, burglaries and other serious threats. In addition, Mr. Frankel`s security products & inventions have been featured on Oprah, FOX news and in countless publications. Jordan`s ability to outsmart the proverbial bad guys – coupled with his commitment to making security an affordable reality for everyone is the key to Global Security Experts Inc success.

Mr. Frankel is a proud member of:

The American Society for Industrial Security.

The International Association for Counter Terrorism & Security.

The Society of Professional Locksmiths.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Don't be this year's news story!


Every year, we hear of families whose Christmas has been ruined by thieves stealing their stash of presents. It would be nice if the crooks took a break for the holidays, but they won't. Don't make yourself an easy target for their next “job.”

  • Use your locks, even if you are only going to be gone “for a minute.”
  • Use a deadbolt and entry lock on every exterior door, including the door from the house to the garage.
  • If a lock isn't working properly and easily, have it serviced.
  • If you cannot account for every key to your home (or business), have it rekeyed.
  • If you want your home to look less attractive to the “bad guys” than your neighbor's, upgrade your locks.

Give your family the gift of greater security this holiday season!

Altic Lock Service is offering special holiday discounts on quality Arrow Lock residential and commercial products from now until December 21, 2011. Call us at (317) 490-1469 for details.

And don't forget all the usual tips:
  • Don't leave packages visible in your car.
  • Don't leave a purse unattended in a shopping cart.
  • Make sure your home appears to be occupied, even when out shopping, visiting, or on vacation. Motion-activated lights are great, as are light timers inside the house. Leave a radio or television on.
  • Illuminate entranceways around your home, including accessible windows.
  • Don't leave gift packages where they are visible from outside the home.
  • Use care when disposing of packaging of valuable items - don't advertise the new items that will be found in the home.
  • Don't open the door to strangers. Install a door viewer so that you can see who is at your door.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Can you really get a low locksmith price when locked out of your car or home?

From: Joe Ducey, ABC-15, Phoenix, AZ:

PHOENIX - Getting locked out of your home or car can be a horrible feeling and even though some ads promise low prices, locksmiths can cost a lot of money.
That's what the ABC15 Investigators found recently.
We gathered low price ads found on the internet, then we purposely locked our keys in a van and called those businesses out.
Run Local Locksmith offers a $15 service ad.
But when the worker got to our van, he says it would cost $135 total.
He says the $15 was just for the service call. The other $120 was for doing the work.
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Altic Lock Service advises that you find a legitimate locksmith before you find yourself stranded. The Society of Professional Locksmiths has a list of reputable businesses across the country.

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Locksmith Sentenced to 60 Days

The Capitol reports a locksmith in Maryland has received a 60 day criminal sentence for theft from his customers. The report states, "officials found that Horton quoted one person $85 to unlock a car, then charged $1,056. In another incident, Horton gave no quote, then charged $953 to unlock a truck. In yet another case, Horton charged $4,348 to drill and replace a lock and deadbolt, officials with the Attorney General's Office said."

Similar scams have been reported across the country, though few cases actually make it to court, and they are more often treated as civil cases, rather than criminal. This is one reason why it is important to find a legitimate locksmith you can trust before you find yourself in an emergency situation, vulnerable to vultures like the "locksmith" in Maryland. To help you locate a legitimate locksmith, the Society of Professional Locksmiths has a list on their site. Altic Lock Service is a member of the Society. Barry Campbell, Owner of Altic Lock Service is Managing Director of the Society.Altic Lock Service publishes its basic prices on its website.

If you believe you may have been taken advantage of, by someone posing as a professional locksmith, the Society of Professional Locksmiths offers invoice audit and estimate evaluation services, as well.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Thinking Outside the (Big) Box

There was an interesting article in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. We agree that the deadbolt lock is the heart of residential security, and that the door, lock, and frame must work as a single unit to provide the greatest security. But the article kind of falls apart when the manufacturers' representatives get their words in. For instance, the article states that, "Schlage and Kwikset both offer locks that are numerically programmed, eliminating tumblers that can be picked." The electronic locks eliminate nothing. Locks from both manufacturers still have mechanical key overrides. There is nothing wrong with that, but the statement in the article leaves the wrong impression. Electronic locks provide greater convenience, not security. It was also interesting that the article says the representatives spoke highly of rekeyable locks. Schlage has already issued a press release that they would discontinue those products at the end of this year.

Regardless, the sad part is that these companies are the ones that the media turns to for information on security. True, they sell the most product, mainly because they market low-priced products through the big box stores. They also provide the most ornate designs and the greatest variety of finishes. It is also true that you could do worse, with some of the other brands offered through normal retail channels. But locksmiths have access to products not available directly to the consumer that offer greater value, quality, and security. Altic Lock Service recommends Arrow brand products for residential use and most commercial applications. Simply put, you are not going to find the best locks at the big box stores.

Deadbolt article

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has an interesting article on deadbolts. Just a shame that when they discussed products, they only talked with representatives from Schlage and Kwikset. For residential use, Altic Lock Service only recommends Arrow Lock products.
The Arrow Lock deadbolts are available as either touchpad or touchscreen models.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

What is protecting your home?

The most common residential locks have cylinders that can be removed from the front of the lock. Properly, the retaining springs are accessed from the back of the lock after it is removed from the door, but that is not necessary. The only things holding the cylinder in the lock are the retaining springs; more specifically, the small projections from the spring seen in the photo near the rounded end of the springs.

Many locksmiths have tools designed to remove the cylinders from the front of the lock with minimal damage. Thieves have tools that can remove cylinders as well, but they don't care if the lock will work again or not. These springs have also been known to come loose from the sides of the cylinder housings where they are attached. If the cylinder is removed from the front of the lock, it can then be easily opened.

Is this type of lock design cheap and easy for the manufacturers to produce? - Yes. Is this type of lock design what you want to depend on to protect your self, your family, or your property? - No, but it is a common construction for the locks you will find at the hardware store.

To encourage homeowners to upgrade to locks of greater security design, Altic Lock Service is offering free installation of Arrow brand locks for a limited time when you replace cheap locks like these. Call 317-490-1469 for the details of this offer.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Free Installation

From now until November 19, 2011, Altic Lock Service is offering free installation when you upgrade to Arrow brand leversets and deadbolts. Minimum purchase of 2 locks required. Call us at (317) 490-1469 for more details.

Monday, August 8, 2011

Schlage Lock to discontinue its SecureKey(TM) Products

In a press release earlier this month, Schlage announced it would end distribution of these products. We recommend you not be lured by clearance prices as retailers try to get these orphaned products off the shelves. The special "blue keys" used to rekey these locks will probably not be widely available, and may go up in price, making servicing of these locks problematic and potentially costly.

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Altic Lock Service at the Indiana State Fair

Altic Lock Service will be at the Indiana State Fair again this year to give a presentation on "How to Get the Most Out of Your Locks." Please join us at the Angie's List Resource Center on Friday, August 12, at 3 pm!

Monday, August 1, 2011

Lock Up Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs are an unfortunate target of both theft and children's curiosity. Thousands of kids die each year from unintentional poisoning. Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in our schools and among teens and young adults. Even invited guests are often curious as to the contents of your medicine cabinet. For that reason, the medicine cabinet is probably a poor choice for storage of potentially dangerous drugs (even over the counter drugs can be harmful or fatal when misused). In some instances, such as when you are selling your home, your home may be accessed by relative strangers who would be relatively free to look around your home.

There are several options. Lock boxes designed to fit medicine cabinets are available, though are easy to carry off. An economical choice would be to use a small safe like the many fireproof safes available to protect important papers, though these can be carried off as well, if not secured in some way. These locking fireproof boxes offer only minimal resistance to unauthorized opening, but are far better than an unlocked cabinet. Burglary-rated safes are ideal, though more costly.

Another possibility, depending on the design of the medicine cabinet, is to have a lock installed on the cabinet itself. Again, the design of most cabinets would make it susceptible to opening by force, but evidence of the intrusion would be obvious, and it would deter most curious kids. As with any locking device, don't leave the key in or near the lock.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Institutional Locksmithing: ADA compliance

Institutional Locksmithing: ADA compliance: "A common misconception about the ADA is that older buildings are not covered, they are 'grandfathered.' This is not true.   Why is it admi..."

Do Home Alarm Systems Provide A False Sense of Security?

Author: Mr. Jordan Frankel

Just how important is a home alarm system? Well, according to The Security Sensei™, not as important as you may think. Here's why.

Imagine for just a moment this frightening scenario. Your husband is away traveling on business and you and your children are getting ready to turn in for the night. You casually go about your nightly routine and without a care in the world you set your alarm, lock the doors, and begin turning off the lights. Then, without warning, your whole world stops. Right outside your window is a silhouette of a large ominous figure. Before you have time to process what's going on, the sound of shattering glass and splintering wood jolts you to a terrifying reality. Someone has broken into your home. What do you do?

Here's what the television commercials would have you believe.

Like most Americans - If you believe the TV commercials, you probably think you don't need to do anything except answer your phone. After all, in the commercial a shrilling alarm sends the intruder running for the hills and simultaneously the phone rings. On the other end is the sound of a calm employee from the alarm monitoring station saying everything will be okay. Should you really feel safe and secure? Maybe not!

When an alarm sounds, typically the intruder has already entered your home. And sadly, criminals can do the "unthinkable" between your alarm sounding and the police arriving on scene. Criminals also know in most cases they can enter the dwelling, steal cash or valuables and then flee in less than five minutes.

Consider this. Television commercials are specifically created to ‘sell' you the idea that a home alarm system will actually protect you and your family from a burglary or violent home invasion. However, today's news headlines tell a very story. The reality is an intruder can kick open your door in a matter of seconds and simply walk right in your home while the family is gathered around the kitchen table or watching television. So how do the bad guys enter a dwelling when a sophisticated security system is already in place?

The answer to that question is very simple. Security systems are not intended to physically stop burglars or home invaders from entering a home. Alarm systems are solely designed to produce ear piercing, attention getting noise that in rare instances frightens off a would-be invader. Unfortunately, that's not what actually happens the majority of the time.

Consider alarming statistics:

1. A burglary occurs every 15 seconds in the United States.

2. Approximately 1 out of every 5 homes will be burglarized or possibly experience a violent home intrusion.

3. A majority of home invasions take place forcibly through a "locked' door.

4. The average length of time it takes a burglar to gain entrance to a home is 57 seconds.

5. Up to 73% of burglars stated that they would still burglarize a house if it had an alarm.

So why even bother with an alarm system?

Well, the good news is despite the fact that an alarm system can`t physically stop an intruder - it is still for sure a critical component of any good security plan. However, you must fully understand its intended purpose and limitations. Once you accept the fact that no alarm system can fully protect you and your family you will be much better off. Security is all about layers - the more layers the better. Think about how the layers of an onion peel back, hence the name "The Home Security Onion"

Now imagine your alarm system is very first layer of the onion. This first layer is what I refer to as psychological in nature.

The psychological layer of security.

As I already stated, an alarm system can't physically stop a criminal. But it can provide a psychological deterrent to a would-be thief. Additionally, alarm system warning signage sends a clear message that on some level you are cognizant of basic home security requirements. This fact alone could be the catalyst needed to persuade the intruder to move on to the next house.

Other examples of psychological security are the "Beware of Dog" signs or even outdoor lighting. Neither will stop a determined criminal, but may make them think twice and move on to an easier target.

Now let's address physical security or what I call effectual security.

The effectual layer of security.

Knowing the first layer of security is psychological in nature and won't effectively stop an intruder, there must be some type of physical layer of security incorporated. One example of effectual security is a dead bolt. Why? Because unlike a psychological security deterrent, a deadbolt can actually prevent a forced entry. Another example is a security door brace, a door brace makes it virtually impossible for even a 250 lbs man to kick in your door.

Glass protection films on ground floor windows can also prevent entry or at least slow down an intruder. Smashing through such protected glass windows would take several attempts and these attention getting blows increase the risk of being caught. Most would-be intruders would rather not take a gamble and simply flee instead.

When it comes to protecting your home and loved ones, you deserve more than a false sense of security.

The bottom line is relying solely on a home security system to protect your family from criminals could quite possibly be the last mistake you make. Real security involves layers of protection. While a home alarm system is an essential part of a home security system plan and a great place to start, you need more. Effectual security such as dead bolts, door braces, and glass protection film adds the effectual layering necessary to help keep you family safe and secure.

Jordan Frankel, commonly known as "The Security Sensei" develops revolutionary security products and solutions that protect both lives & property. Countless agencies and corporations such as NASDAQ, the US Military, and law enforcement entrust Mr. Frankel with their security and safety.

The Security Sensei is also frequent media guest addressing the personal and financial consequences associated with home invasions, burglaries and other serious threats. In addition, Mr. Frankel`s security products & inventions have been featured on Oprah, FOX news and in countless publications. Jordan`s ability to outsmart the proverbial bad guys – coupled with his commitment to making security an affordable reality for everyone is the key to Global Security Experts Inc success.

Mr. Frankel is a proud member of the American Society for Industrial Safety & Security and the International Association for Counter Terrorism & Security.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-security-articles/do-home-alarm-systems-provide-a-false-sense-of-security-5030197.html

About the Author

Global Security Experts Inc. founder Jordan Frankel, commonly known as The Security Sensei develops revolutionary security products and solutions that protect both lives & property. Countless agencies and corporations such as NASDAQ, the US Military, and law enforcement entrust Mr. Frankel with their security and safety.

Jordan Frankel is also frequent media guest addressing the personal and financial consequences associated with home invasions, burglaries and other serious threats. In addition, Mr. Frankel`s security products & inventions have been featured on Oprah, FOX news and in countless publications. Jordan`s ability to outsmart the proverbial bad guys – coupled with his commitment to making security an affordable reality for everyone is the key to Global Security Experts Inc success.

Mr. Frankel is a proud member of the American Society for Industrial Security and the International Association for Counter Terrorism & Security.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Burglary Season

Summertime is vacation time, and burglars know that. Whether you are on vacation or not, there is a pretty good chance potential burglars are checking out your neighborhood this time of year. Take a few minutes to look at your house the way a criminal might. Can they approach your entryways unseen? Do you tend to leave any windows or doors open or unlocked?  Quite bluntly, does it look like the home is lived in and cared for? Are vulnerable areas lighted at night?

This is also a good time to make sure you can account for all of your keys. If not, re-establish some level of key control by having your locks rekeyed. It's also a good time to lubricate your locks, and to check to be sure they are in good working order. Need any help? Call Altic Lock Service, and we will help you secure your home or business.

Friday, July 8, 2011

Automotive Smart Key Warning

Many newer cars are being designed to operate without a physical keyed ignition switch. This has apparently led to at least three deaths in the last year according to this story from WMAR, the ABC affiliate in Baltimore, Maryland:

Keyless ignition, or Smart Key Technology, allows drivers to start and stop their engine with the push of a button. The problem, without a physical key, drivers aren't always remembering to press the off button, and it doesn't take long for the poison to build. Since 2010 at least three people have died from carbon monoxide linked to keyless ignition cars...

Electronic locks in cars, homes, and businesses seem to be the wave of the future, but we must be careful to not let the technology get ahead of us, especially when the results can be so tragic.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

OnGard Door Brace

For heavy-duty protection against forced entry, it is hard to beat this one, especially since it normally lists for about $180. You can get a good price here on Amazon, but call us if you want professional installation!

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Why have Altic Lock rekey your home or business?

   Rekeying your locks is essential to maintaining key control and access control to your home or business. Whether you have lost a key, had your keys stolen, dismissed a key-carrying employee, or simply don't know for sure who may have keys to your home or business; rekeying restores security.

   Wouldn't it be cheaper to replace the locks? If your time is of little value, you could go to a hardware store and buy cheap locks that may cost less than it would cost to have a professional locksmith rekey your current locks. That would have to include the time and labor to actually replace the locks. When you install the locks, do you know how the lock must be aligned for the deadlatch to operate correctly or for the bolt to extend in order to actually lock in place? When Altic Lock Service rekeys your locks, we check these things, as well as remove any master pins that may be in your current locks. We can identify potential problems, and can often increase security and prevent future problems without replacing the locks.

   Given the value of the people and property you are endeavoring to protect, isn't it worth making sure it is done right? Unfortunately, the latest residential lock offerings at the home stores are of questionable design. Do some research online for customer complaints to see what we mean. In our opinion, the newest locks from the largest lock manufacturers found at the home stores are more toys than locks. While basic pin-tumbler locks have their shortcomings, those of the new "rekeyable" locks are much worse.

   With regard to commercial locks, the cost of a quality commercial-grade lock far exceeds the cost of a rekey. Altic Lock can also advise you on ADA and fire code compliance issues that may save you money in the long run.

Friday, June 24, 2011

Fire Exits

Securitech Group, Inc. has a nice photo gallery of fire code violations. Do any of these look familiar?


Don't risk lives. Never add auxiliary locks to a fire exit. If your exit hardware is not working correctly, call Altic Lock Service to repair or replace as necessary.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Indiana State Fair

Again this year, Altic Lock Service has been invited to give a presentation at the Angie's List Resource Center at the State Fair. We are scheduled for Friday, August 12, at 3 pm. We'll post more details as they become available. Hope to see you there!

Friday, June 17, 2011

Deadlatches

Again and again, we find that deadlatches are the cause of numerous lock failures When the deadlatch and the strike plate are not aligned properly, failures will occur. The deadlatch plunger may break and fail to provide the protection it adds. Watch the video to learn how check if the deadlatch is working properly on your locks.

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Padlocks to match your house keys

Yes, we do carry padlocks that can be keyed to match your house key. If, like many people, you have the drawer full of padlocks without keys or the pile of keys that you are sure go to a padlock somewhere; these are a great item to have. Heavy duty 1 3/4" with a 5/16" shackle or 2" with a 3/8" shackle, for home or business use. Eliminate the little padlock keys cluttering your key ring and never be without the right key for your padlock!

Monday, June 6, 2011

Marion County Prosecutor's Office Landlord Training Seminars

Landlord Training Seminar schedule and information.

"The office’s Landlord Training Program is a free, one-day seminar of instruction for landlords and property managers that provides best practices on preventing and maintaining crime-free properties. During the eight-hour course, landlords learn essential information about screening applicants, preparing rental agreements, spotting signs of drug and gang activity, peacefully resolving crises, and deterring crime though property and ground maintenance."

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Burglary Prevention Forum

June 6 at 6:30 pm at the Woodruff Place Baptist Church, 1739 E Michigan Street (enter off Walcott). Presented by the Marion County Prosecutor's Office Burglary Enforcement Strategy Team. Hosted by the Willard Park of Holy Cross-Westminster Civic Alliance

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Simplex Lock Retrofit

In February, we posted about a class action lawsuit regarding Simplex mechanical code locks. There is now an electronic code retrofit available for the L1000 Series being advertised as an "easy and inexpensive fix to address defeat issues."

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Our book is available

A Homeowner's Guide to Residential Door Security is now available here. In a few days, it will be available on Amazon.com as well.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Support for victims of domestic violence

Altic Lock Service offers a 50% discount on certain services for victims of domestic violence. Rekey charges, labor charges on installing reinforcements to protect against forcible entry, and service call charges are discounted if the resident has a protection order or is referred by a member of the Marion County Prosecutor's Office of Domestic Violence Affairs. Please note that if the resident is a renter, authorization for any work may need to be provided by the property owner.

Invoice Audits and Estimate Evaluations

Locksmithripoffs.com, a consumer advocacy service is sponsored by the Society of Professional Locksmiths and offers Invoice Audit and Estimate Evaluation services. If you feel you have been or are being taken advantage of by an unscrupulous locksmith, this is the place to go.

Friday, April 29, 2011

Burglary Prevention Forum

The Marion County Prosecutor's Office Burglary Enforcement Strategy Team will be presenting a short burglary prevention forum at the Marion County Alliance of Neighborhood Associations' May 21 meeting at the North United Methodist Church, 3808 N. Meridian St, at 9 am.

We understand that this will be a shortened program compared to those sponsored, in part, by Altic Lock Service last year, but we will be there and are sure you will gain knowledge that could keep you from becoming a victim of crime.

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Consumer Reports to test locks

Consumer Reports will have a special home-security package on-line and at the newsstands in early May. The report will include door lock tests.

Stanley Security Solutions announces Best lock recall

Consumer Product Safety Commission Recall Alert:

March 9, 2011
Alert #11-725

Stanley Security Solutions Announces Recall of Door Locksets; Failure of Latches Could Lead to Entrapment in an Emergency

 This is for general information. We are happy to say that Altic Lock Service does not carry and has not sold any of the locks included in this recall.

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Society of Professional Locksmiths Press Release

Area Locksmith Has Been Accepted Into International Locksmith Organization

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION: 3/27/11







Area Locksmith Has Been Accepted Into International Locksmith Organization



Indianapolis, IN – 3/27/11 – Barry Campbell – Altic Lock Service has been accepted into the
Society of Professional Locksmiths, an international network of locksmiths dedicated to
staying on the cutting edge in an ever- changing industry.



By joining the Society, Campbell has access to a vast database of locksmith information, a
global network of experienced professionals and an online continuing education system
that helps him keep his skills sharp while providing a much needed service to his
community.



“Membership has its privileges; by joining Campbell now has access to years of valuable
experience of locksmiths and security professionals from around the globe. We value each
member and support their professional development with continued educational resources,
training and peer review.” SOPL founder Tom Lynch said.



The Society of Professional Locksmiths is a collaboration of security professionals whose
members strive to implement forward-thinking initiatives through education, networking and
benevolent support.



Members benefit from rapid communication and response to their needs and desires from peer
support and project development.



Contact Society of Professional Locksmiths contributing Director of Operations, Tom Lynch, CRL

at lockquiz@gmail.com or telephone 845-445-8238 for more details.



- END -

Saturday, March 12, 2011

March - April Specials

See our March and April Specials! Get great deals as we enter our seventh year of operation. Buy five, get the sixth free on selected Arrow locks or rekeys. Be sure to check out the Saturday-only special on residential deadbolt installations!

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Interchangeable Cores

Interchangeable core locks, like high-security locks, have their uses. But there are also many instances where they should not be used. They are great for large offices, schools, dormitories, and locations where there are several levels of masterkeying. Their key advantage is that they are interchangeable. They do offer some degree of key control. If you are not frequently changing locks, they are probably not appropriate. Where they are used, somebody should be responsible for the locks. Interchangeable cores can be identified by their figure-8 appearance, like the Arrow brand interchangeable core shown below:



All the advantages of the interchangeable core disappear if you do not have a key known as a control, or core key. The control key does not actually operate the lock, but is necessary to remove or service the cores. Without it, the lock may need to be destroyed to remove the core. We've received numerous calls from small businesses wanting locks serviced or rekeyed. They will have interchangeable core locks, but no control key. If you are in this situation, you might want to consider replacing the locks now, rather than waiting for an emergency situation to occur.

"Do Not Duplicate" Keys

We've received several calls recently from folks inquiring about having copies made of keys marked "Do Not Duplicate". In general, unless we have installed or serviced the lock, we will not make copies of keys that are so marked. We respect the apparent intent to control the number of duplicate keys.

That being said, there are places that will duplicate such keys, apparently without any respect for the original intent. With few exceptions (some government and post office keys), there is nothing illegal about duplicating a key marked "Do Not Duplicate".

If you want to be certain that no unauthorized duplicates are made of a key, that is when you need to turn to what are generally referred to as "high security" locks. That generally means that the manufacturer has a restricted, patented keyway. Some of these locks will only be sold to certain locksmiths, or a single locksmith, in a geographical area. Bear in mind that, if you invest in these types of locks, you are probably limiting yourself to that same locksmith for all future service on those locks. We want our customers to come back because they want to, not because they have no choice.

Another recent call we received was from a business that had invested in a high-security lock just five years ago, but the original locksmith would no longer service the lock - its particular patent had run out, and they would no longer be serviced. Replacement was the only option. High-security locks have their place, but they are not for everybody. Even if key duplication is limited, keys might be lost, stolen, misplaced, or not returned. Expect the servicing of high-security locks to be considerably more than standard locks. Be sure to understand the pros and cons before investing in high-security locks.

Friday, February 11, 2011

Simplex Locks Class Action Lawsuit

Have a lock that looks like this? It may be the target of a class action lawsuit alleging that it can be easily bypassed. The manufacturer, Kaba-Ilco, made a design change in December 2010 that may or may not be related to the lawsuit, but may have made the lock more difficult to bypass.

This is an extremely popular mechanical code-operated lock. Regardless of the outcome of the lawsuit, there does appear to be a serious security concern. It may be bypassed with no damage, leaving no evidence that a bypass has occurred. The biggest problem may be that the bypass can be performed with limited knowledge and no particular skill.

If you have one of these locks (only the 5000 series is excluded from the lawsuit), your security may be at risk, especially if the lock is located on an exterior door.