1. Many of Us do Undercover Work for the Cops
We make keys for them and get them into places at 3 a.m. so they can set up surveillance equipment or put the bugs in place. It’s part of the thrill of doing what we do.
(Photo: iStockphoto/Thinkstock)
2. Contractors Stink at Installing Dead Bolts
I can’t tell you how many times I go out to rekey one or let someone in, and I find problems. If it isn’t correctly installed, it won’t protect you.
A properly installed dead bolt should have at least a one-inch “throw,” and on the “strike side,” there should be a security plate with screws at least three inches long that go all the way into the door’s wood frame.
(Photo: Hemera/Thinkstock)
3. Have a Housekeeper Who Needs a Key?
Ask me to key your door so that your master key works on both the dead bolt and the doorknob, but hers works just on the knob. On the day she comes, lock only the knob.
(Photo: Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Thinkstock)
9. The Biggest Mistakes People Make with their Safe?
Spinning the dial too fast, trying to open it before it’s unlocked, and forcing it closed when there’s obviously a problem.
(Photo: Creatas/Thinkstock)
12. If You’re Locked Out, Only Call One of Us
More than once, I arrived at a lock-out to find two competitors’ trucks already there. At that point, we all agreed to leave and abandon the inconsiderate victim.
(Photo: Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Thinkstock)