Think You Don’t Have to Change Your Residential Locks? Think Again!
Just how easy is it for a burglar to get past your residential
locks ? Probably easier than you think.
A recent story in Seattle ("Most house locks susceptible to
'bumping' http://www.komonews.com/news/8457492.html
) explains just how thieves are breaking into homes, even those
with deadbolts.
Using a blank house key, the burglar inserts the key into your
residential lock and "bumps" it open. The only sound the force
makes is a metal "ping," according to the KOMO TV 4 news story.
With a few simple steps, "lock bumpers," as they're called, can
gain access to your home in less than 20 seconds.
An increase in residential property crime had neighbors
convinced they were at fault. With no signs of forced entry and
only minor noise, the victims of lock bumpers thought they had left
their doors unlocked.
What can you do?
Unless your residential security includes a deadbolt that locks
from the inside, get new locks. Residential locksmiths consulted
for the KOMO News story recommended choosing residential locks by
Medeco to prevent this type of break-in. Other options were the
Primus and the Everest, residential locks by Schlage. Expect to pay
$150 to $250 for a Schlage lock, and more for the top-rated
Medeco.
