Security follows the same trend.

This is why big businesses and corporations perform security audits regularly, so they can identify and minimize risks. Why can’t homeowners do the same? Well, because many don’t know where to start. 

Let’s highlight how you can conduct your own security audit (using several guidelines recommended by the National Center for State Courts).

Home Exterior Security Audit Checklist

First, let’s look at the exterior of your home. Here are some examples of security issues to watch for when performing an exterior security audit:

• Is there adequate lighting on the perimeter?
• Are there any overgrown shrubs or obstacles blocking views from inside?
• Are there any additional exterior buildings you need to inspect?
• Are all windows secured (including basement windows)?
• Is there an attached garage? Does it present a security risk?
• Does the mailbox or other signage reveal your identity?
• Is there a security system? Does it work? Does it need to be upgraded?
• Are door locks still functional and do they provide adequate security?

Home Interior Security Audit Checklist

Next is the interior of the home. Here are some examples of security issues to watch for when performing an interior security audit

• Is there an alarm system? Does it work? Does it need to be upgraded?
• Are smoke, heat and carbon monoxide detectors functional and installed throughout the home?
• Do the most important access points have deadbolt locks on them?
• Can you get into the home from any windows or openings?
• Do windows allow easy visibility into the home?
• Do you have a video doorbell that lets you identify visitors before you open the door?
• Do you have lighting on timers so onlookers don’t think you’re not at home?

These are just a few ideas for performing your own security audit, but why not turn to a professional instead? A professional residential locksmith, for example, knows what security issues to look for and how to address them. To get started on improving the security of your home or business, contact A-1 Locksmith today at (972) 284-7500.

Well, in a way, your home’s security level is another area you need to maintain.

How often do you inspect or walk through your home to check for security issues? While getting a professional’s opinion is a great idea, there are several benefits to conducting one yourself. Here are four of them.

1. Discover Unknown Issues

One of the biggest benefits to a home security walkthrough—especially if you haven’t performed one before—is that you get to thoroughly inspect every area of your home and discover issues you might not have even known about. For example, you might have wiring from an old security system that you no longer use, or you might discover a vulnerable access point to your home. You can’t fix what you don’t know about.

2. Identify Needed Upgrades

Once you’ve established a lay of the land, a home security audit can help you track and organize your security equipment—including which need to be repaired or replaced. If your front door doesn’t have a video doorbell, for example, that’s an area of improvement. Or, you might realize your security cameras aren’t giving you as clear of a picture as you’d like. Figure out what is most important to you and do a walkthrough to identify needed upgrades.

3. Establish an Emergency Plan

A side benefit of walking through your home to identify security issues is that you get better information for planning in case of emergencies. You can determine the quickest or most efficient route to exiting the home, as well as where home or gun safes are in case firearms are ever needed to protect against an intruder. If you’re just guessing or estimating aspects of your plan, there’s likely a better method waiting for you.

4. Gain Peace of Mind

Ultimately, you’ll have a better understanding of what will and won’t protect you in your home (and what is an issue you need to address) after a security walkthrough/audit. If everything looks to be safe and secure, you’re all set. If there are areas of improvement, a professional locksmith can be a great second set of eyes and give you further advice and guidance.

Whether you find something concerning during your home security walkthrough or if you’re interested in a security audit from a professional locksmith company, contact A-1 Locksmith today and we can give you the guidance you need.

It doesn’t matter if you’re talking about baking or commercial security. For the latter, it can be difficult to tell what is adequate and what isn’t. In today’s article, we cover a few commonly overlooked areas in a typical security audit and how to determine whether your facility would pass a commercial security inspection or not.

Entry Points

First and foremost, make sure any entry and exit points are covered. This is where thieves will check first and they love it when you make things easy for them. Make sure all doors close and lock properly, but also check other elements of your doors are in working order, such as hinges, frames and even the door material itself. The solution that provides the most peace of mind for commercial businesses, however, is a master key system where you control access to every room in your facility (including who has control of what area). 

Windows

Next, something typically close to entry points: windows. Making sure your windows close and lock properly is another item that should be on your commercial security checklist, as well as checking the hinges and overall stability. Do all of your windows have screens? This is important whether the window is broken intentionally or not. There are other security upgrades you can place on your window, from commercial security systems with night visibility to motion tracking.

Storage Spaces

If your business has a warehouse, storage area, attic or basement, these are all areas that could attract criminals due to the fact they’re:

• Typically out of sight or with poor lighting
• Where the safe and valuables are commonly stored
• In areas with minimal foot traffic and customers
• Not well maintained and prone to excess wear/compromise

Basically, if there’s an area you don’t think about often (or at all), it’s a good idea to do a security check and make sure it isn’t the most vulnerable area of your facility.

Any Poorly Lit Area

Finally, do a sweep to make sure you have proper lighting, as any area in your commercial facility can be a security risk if it hides illegal activity. (Especially if said area is visible from the storefront or street.) Stairwells, clutter, boxes and anything that causes a shadow is a vulnerable area to check, as are bathrooms and any room with a public access point. At the end of the day, if you’re doing a regular audit or walkthrough, it will be easier to identify potential issues.

If you’d like to get professional feedback on your business security, contact A-1 Locksmith today at 972-284-7500.