Regardless of which camp you fall into, it’s not too late to improve yourself or set some goals for improving in the upcoming year. Security is one area many people don’t think about, but peace of mind is something you can’t replace. Since this area is our specialty, here are five security-related New Year’s Resolutions to consider.

1. Avoid Getting Locked Out of Your Car or Locked Out of Your Home

We humans can be forgetful people. Whether it’s your house keys or your car keys, it just takes one mistake to cause an unfortunate, stressful and potentially dangerous situation. Fortunately, there are several ways to ensure that you are never locked out of your home, car or business. 

Here are a few ideas to help with this resolution:

• Get a duplicate key made and keep with a trusted friend or family member.
• Upgrade to smart locks that let you use a combination or code to access.
• Buy a wireless key fob that won’t lock inside a car.
• Set up reminders for when you leave to include a reminder about keys.

2. Create an Emergency Plan

Another low-hanging fruit in the world of resolutions, an emergency plan can give you peace of mind about your loved ones and employees in the event of an incident. Consider creating an emergency plan for fires, thefts, shootings and other adverse situations. Document that plan and go through training with your family or employees to ensure everyone knows what to do.

3. Security Monitoring

If you don’t have a security system or video doorbell, a new year is a great time to invest in one. Security monitoring is becoming more and more affordable while packing on new features. It’s never been easier to monitor your home or business when you’re on the road or out of town. 

4. Find a Locksmith You Trust

Many people search for “locksmith near me” without knowing who is reliable and who’s not in an industry that’s known for having its share of fraudulent operators. Having a professional local locksmith that you trust is an easy security-related resolution. Just as you have numbers for doctors, plumbers and electricians, a “best” locksmith number should be easily accessible. At A-1 Locksmith, we guarantee our customer satisfaction and will do our best to ensure we’re your ideal security partner.

5. Upgrade Your Security System!

If you’re already set with the different types of security solutions that make sense for your home, business or vehicle, an upgrade might be all you need. There are likely better or newer versions of every piece of security equipment you own, so at least look into your options.

If you’re looking to improve the security of your home, vehicle or business, contact A-1 Locksmith or visit any of our Dallas-Fort Worth locations today. 

Replace Car Fob Batteries

First off, if you enter your car using a device that has batteries, make sure they’re charged before winter has fully arrived. Batteries tend to die in colder weather because they require a higher charge to function properly. But you can ensure they’re working properly if you’re confident they’ve been replaced recently. 

Lubricate Locks

Keys get stuck in locks during winter months and your vehicle’s keys are no exception. If you’ve had a history of cold-weather auto lockouts and/or are concerned about it happening in the future, you can lubricate your locks with a spray lubricant to give you peace of mind. Other solutions that heat up the lock (e.g. lighter, hair dryer) can work after the key is already stuck, but applying regular lubrication can help you avoid the frustrations that come with an auto lockout in the winter.

Replace Old Keys

Similar to the first point about replacing batteries, if you know any of your physical keys are old or worn down, it might be a good idea to replace them proactively. Look for signs of rust, age, cracking or inconsistent function and replace any that are suspicious. 

Keep a Locksmith’s Number Handy

A locksmith can help you replace locks and key fobs, but it’s also a good idea to keep a trusted locksmith’s phone number saved in case you’re locked out of your car during the winter. As long as there isn’t an emergency situation, they’re the quickest and best option to address your situation. They can also give you tips on preventing the lockout from happening again. 

Carry a Spare

A spare key is another good option for those who regularly experience auto lockouts of keys stuck in the locks of their vehicles. Just as you would with a spare house key, you can give one to a trusted neighbor or friend, or keep it in a secret area of your purse or wallet.

Prepare, Just In Case

Finally, make sure you know what to do if you need an emergency locksmith in Dallas-Fort Worth. There are resources (like this blog) that provide best practices for different situations, as well as steps to take during a locksmith emergency. Do your research, just in case! If you’re interested in more auto security tips, stop by any of our A-1 Locksmith locations in Dallas-Fort Worth and we’ll be happy to help.

The good news is that there are ways to avoid losing your keys, especially if it keeps happening in your vehicle. Let’s go over a few reasons why some people keep locking keys in their cars.

Reason #1: There Are Changes In Your Routine

When there is something that affects your routine (e.g. you’re in a hurry), that’s when there is a good chance you’ll do something abnormal like lock your keys in the car. When you rush or do things differently than you normally do, it can cause your brain to misfire and you’ll forget about all of the steps that are normally part of your routine. Try creating good habits and realize when your route has been affected so you’re more vigilant about keeping track of your car keys.

Reason #2: They Blend In!

You could be losing your car keys often because they don’t stand out enough. If your keys are similar in color or texture to your seats, glove box, cupholders and dashboard, there’s a good chance you’ll miss them at some point. Instead, add some personality and color to your keys by personalizing them.

Reason #3: Your Car Uses A Fob

When your car doesn’t even use a key, you can’t lock it inside the car, right? Wrong. If your car utilizes keyless entry via a fob or other wireless device, it can be even easier to lock the device inside the car. This is because you get into the habit of not using your keys to start the vehicle and then one day, you forget to take the fob with you. The good news is that many automobile manufacturers these days are adding alarms to fobs that notify you when the key is still in the vehicle. Other cars won’t even lock if the fob is in it. But it’s something to keep in mind.

How To Avoid Locking Your Keys In Your Car

Many of the above situations can be avoided if you have a duplicate key on hand, preferably one that is strategically hidden on the vehicle itself. (In an area you only know about, of course, such as underneath the carriage.) A professional auto locksmith can duplicate a key for you efficiently and is often more affordable than a dealership. Even key fobs and other car access devices can be duplicated. Consider giving one to a trusted friend or family member and you’ll be less likely to be stranded if your keys are locked in your car again in the future.

If you’d like more automotive security advice or are interested in other ways to improve the security of your car, contact A-1 Locksmith today or visit any of our DFW-area locations.

If this happens to you, you’re not alone. The AAA reports that millions of motorists still lock their keys in their car each year. But if it happens when you’re nowhere near a town, gas station or rest stop, it can cause a tremendous amount of panic… unless you’re prepared.

Let’s take a look at your options in situations like this and how a locksmith may be able to help.

Exploring Your Options

For starters, it’s important to determine whether the situation is an emergency. If there is a child, pet or other person locked in the car (or anyone outside of it is in danger), call 911. A call to the police shouldn’t be your first option if no one is in danger, but as a last resort, it can be helpful. Many police officers have the ability to unlock your car, or call a tow truck (which you’ll be paying for). Plus, a 911 call will go to the nearest dispatch center, which can give you peace of mind.

Your second option is to call a locksmith. Locksmith companies like A-1 Locksmith, for example, have a wide service area in Dallas-Fort Worth. So even if it seems like you’re in the middle of nowhere, a locksmith may still be able to reach you. Dallas-Fort Worth is quite large, you know.

Finally, a call to the dealership, a tow truck company or your insurance/roadside assistance company may be an option. This depends on your location, as well as the company’s guidelines.

What If There’s No Cell Service?

Of course, one of the biggest problems with being in the middle of nowhere is that there can be a lack of cell phone coverage. If you’re in an emergency situation and dial 911, however, you’ll be relieved to know that your cell phone will scan all networks (not just your own) and try to make a call. This will drain your battery and isn’t guaranteed to work, so try to get to the highest point possible before you make your call and turn off your phone until you get there, if necessary.

For situations where you can’t use your phone at all (e.g. the battery died), it’s important to keep an emergency kit on hand, preferably one with a safety whistle and/or flare. If you can attract someone’s attention, they may be able to help. Try not to leave your vehicle (assuming it’s in a safe location), unless you know you are in walkable distance of a location with a phone/person.

How a Locksmith Can Help

If the situation isn’t an emergency, a locksmith may be the best option. The best locksmiths are equipped with GPS-monitored vans, so you’ll know where exactly they are in proximity to your location by simply giving the company a call. These locksmiths also use GPS technology themselves so they can find you quickly, even if you’re outside of a town or city limit.

A locksmith, from a reputable company like A-1 Locksmith, will arrive promptly in a marked vehicle, wearing a marked uniform, and with the appropriate locksmithing tools. A-1 Locksmith has more than 30 technicians in the field each day and can potentially have someone to your location fast. At the very least, someone from our team can give you advice about the next steps you should take.

If you’ve been locked out of your car in the middle of nowhere, you don’t need to panic. Assuming no one is in danger, give A-1 Locksmith a call today at 972-284-7500 and we’ll help you out.