Thursday, August 31, 2017
Booster Club Travel Bag
Booster Club will be distributing HS travel bag to G9 students and new G10-12 students on September 4 (Mon) - September 8 (Friday) during lunch hours outside HS cafeteria. Details HERE.
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Wednesday, August 30, 2017
THESPIAN INDUCTIONS today
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Aug 31, Thursday
ISB Ski School
Any students interested in joining the ISB ski school, some information will go out on the ISB activities blog and to Middle School homerooms next week.
Club Football
ClubFootball junior soccer coaching courses at ISB will kick off from this Saturday - to register for midweek or weekend courses, or for more info, please call 5130 6893/4/5/6, mail coaching@clubfootball.com.cn, or see WGQXJuniors.
Found item
Earphone, please check at MS office.
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8 Best Keypad Door Locks
Keypad door locks have been steadily growing in popularity for quite some time. A huge part of this can be attributed to the success of recent smart locks that also make use of keypads. With so many different options on the market today, it can become quite difficult for homeowners, businesses and institutions to figure out which option is best for them. Hopefully this list of some of the best keypad door locks helps you make a great selection.
8. Kwikset SmartCode 916 Electronic Keypad Deadbolt
One of the reasons why the Kwikset Smartcode 916 is so popular among homeowners, is because it can be integrated with other home automation devices. This simple action helps to extend its range of abilities, but this is not the only reason why this lock was able to work it’s way onto the best keypad door locks list. In order to be considered one of the best keypad door locks, the lock actually has to be passable at its basic functions, and the Kwikset Smartcode 916 Keypad deadbolt does well in that regard.
This lock is capable of programming up to 30 user codes, which helps homeowners customize the type of access that they can grant to their homes. It also has a master code feature that helps increase security. The lock has a host of major additions geared towards making it a much more secure household addition. It also has an automated locking feature ensuring you never leave your door unlocked.
However, the automated locking feature relies on the lock being properly installed so that the bolt fits perfectly in the strike. Also, the Kwikset SmartCode includes patented side bar technology that is meant to prevent lock bumping, lock picking, and other lock bypass methods. In addition to this patented side bar bolt, the lock also boasts of the smart key feature which helps homeowners rekey locks in simple steps.
Although kwikset did implement some steps to increase security, and try and make one of the best keypad door locks, the lock tends to fall short in some aspects. This is why it is at the tail end of this list. The fact that the lock still requires a key, makes it vulnerable. Also, the locking mechanism itself is a ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 lock, which is not the most secure deadbolt you can find.
On the other hand, Kwikset did institute measures to reduce the chances of cyber bypass. The lock uses 128-bit encryption as well as a secure screen feature. The secure screen feature is meant to reduce the chances of anyone guessing a user’s code based on their fingerprint patterns. It achieves this by always prompting the user to press two randomly generated numbers before they enter their access code.
Buy Kwikset Smartcode on Amazon
7. Schlage Touch Keyless Touchscreen BE 375 -V
Next up on the list of best keypad door locks is the Schlage Touch Keyless Touchscreen BE 375-V. The Schlage Touch Keyless Touchscreen BE 375-V was in close competition for the number 7 spot with another Schlage lock, which happened to be the BE 469 model. However, the BE 375-V was able to improve upon some of the problems that the earlier model faced and this is the reason why it is a far better option.
The first thing that stands out about this lock is the fact that it does not have a lock cylinder, which means that it is pick proof and bump proof, and this is already a welcome security upgrade for many. I will point out that this lock will not be suited for everybody, but it is best for those who do not always want to use their keys and are welcome to the idea of keyless locks.
Many of the homeowners who utilise keypad door locks have the fear that their lock batteries will die leaving them stranded outside their homes. The Schlage keypad door lock aims to quell these fears with a twofold solution. The first step they took was to ensure that the lock itself consumes very little power. This was accomplished by eliminating the need for a motorized locking mechanism and replacing it with thumb turn operated bolt.
This bolt requires that the user turn the lock to open and to lock the door. Also, if the lock does happen to lose power, homeowners can still use their lock by jump starting it with a 9V battery. The temporary power source will allow you to quickly enter your access code.
I am sure that this lock probably sounds amazing, so you must be wondering why it is all the way down here. Well, the lock has an ANSI Grade 2 security rating, which means that there is some room for improvement. However, if you are a homeowner on a budget, then this lock will be a very suitable option for you.
Buy Schlage Touch Keyless Touchscreen on Amazon
6. Baldwin Boulder 8252 AC1 Keyless Entry Single Cylinder Deadbolt
I would like to start this section by stating that I personally believe that Baldwin should change the name of this lock. There is nothing wrong with Boulder, that aspect of it is fine, but passing the key off as a keyless entry lock? A keyless entry lock won’t have a keyway right under the keypad. The baldwin lock should be praised for its sturdy hardware and body that are a consistent with the baldwin brand.
A great deal of the homeowners who have reviewed this lock are most impressed with how it looks and feels. The bolt is made of brass and the cylinder is a 5-pin C-keyway, which together offer an average amount of resistance to lock picking, bumping, and even to drilling. If this was a truly keyless deadbolt lock, then we wouldn’t have to worry about many of these bypass methods.
The Baldwin Boulder 8252 made improvements upon its predecessors, one of which was the earlier version of the SoHo 8285. One of the major complaints that users had with this lock was the fact that you could only program 2 access codes, which greatly limited the way people could use the lock. Essentially, there were no real added benefits to using the keypad door lock. (Unless you took into account the fact that you now had another way to avoid a lockout.) The Boulder 8352 caters to homeowners and gives them access to up to 30 codes that help you customize the layout of your access control.
5. Yale Real Living Assure Lock YRD446
The Yale Real Living Assure Lock YRD 446 is very similar to the schlage lock that I discussed earlier. The key thing that they have in common is the fact that they are both, in fact, keyless locks (see what I did there?). As I mentioned earlier, a keyless lock will almost always increase security because it does away with the vulnerabilities of lock picking, lock bumping, and other lock bypass measures.
This does not mean that the lock will now be invulnerable, because these kinds of locks tend to have their own sets of vulnerabilities, like cyber security vulnerabilities (but we can get into semantics about smart locks and traditional locks later). Although these locks bear some resemblance to one another, the Yale YRD 446 has a bit of an edge, which makes it higher ranked on the best keypad door locks list.
This keypad door lock works with an existing deadbolt, which basically means that homeowners have the ability to upgrade their deadbolt and build around it. Most of the keypad door locks (and smart locks for that matter) on the market come with their own deadbolts that are integral to the regular operation of the lock, so homeowners are limited to what they are given.
This lock also comes with a weather protection gasket and a tamper resistant battery cover that will ensure that no one is able to short the power to your lock and use this as a method to gain entry. There is also a lot to be said for the physical appearance of the lock and the manner in which it interacts with homeowners. The lock is compatible with other smart home devices and it comes with its own software application that helps homeowners monitor the way the lock is functioning.
4. Corbin Russwin Access 700 PAC1
The Corbin Russwin Access locks are used on a wide number of college campuses, and they are some of the most dependable keypad door locks available. The 700 PAC1 lock is a Grade 1 lockset that gives users multiple options to fit their needs. This lock is available with a keypad and magnetic strike or with just the magnetic stripe. Corbin Russwin is very well known for the care they put into crafting their high-security locks, and this product is no different.
The 700 PAC1 can support up to 1,200 users and has an audit trail of up to 700 transactions and events. Furthermore, the high coercivity of the magnetic stripe coupled with the security of the ANSI Grade 1 lockset, gives the lock a high security rating. It also has a 3 hour UL fire rating which makes it much more resistant and secure.
3. Mul-T-Lock ENTR Touchpad Reader
The name Mul-T-Lock is a staple in the security community and it is one of the most trusted lock brands out there. So it really comes as not surprise that they are so high up on the list of best keypad door locks. The Mul-T-Lock ENTR series of locks presents homeowners with an array of new options, and they improve upon many of the ideas that some other keypad door locks have tried to explore. The ENTR lock series utilises fingerprints, keypads and key fobs to operate these locks, but I will be focusing on the touchpad version of the lock. After all, this is a list about best keypad door locks. Let me stop myself before I digress.
The Mul-T-Lock ENTR Touchpad lock boasts the use of the high security lock cylinders that the brand has become known for. However, the thing that makes this lock great isn’t the fact that it continues to use a tried and true method, but the fact that it pairs this method with some digital ingenuity. The ENTR lock understands that even the best keypad door locks can be vulnerable when it comes to cyber security.
This lock is able to support up to 20 different access codes which makes it much easier for homeowners to manage who comes into their house at any given time. As much as I like to cater to homeowners, it is important to remember that this lock can also be used in commercial settings, so don’t shy away from it when it comes time for commercial lock installations. Not to mention, the ENTR lock is completely keyless, which in itself adds to how secure this lock is.
This lock also elevates access control management and helps users keep track of who has access to their home or office. This fact, coupled with the locks ability to integrate with other home automation devices and smart home hubs, makes it a worthwhile addition and makes it one of the best keypad door locks available.
2. Kaba E-Plex 1500 Series
The Kaba E-Plex 1500 series is mostly geared towards commercial buildings, but it is still one of the most secure keypad door locks that you you should be aware of. Similar to the Mul-T-Lock that was just discussed, Kaba has a longstanding reputation for providing quality high-security locks that do not disappoint. The E-Plex 1500 series locks are made of a heavy duty Grade 2 lockset, but this doesn’t prove to be a liability because of the other security features that the lock is paired with. Keep in mind that Grade 2 locks are not a bad option, but always choose secure Grade 1 if it is available and applicable.
The Kaba E-Plex 1500 locks can store up to a 100 codes, which makes it ideal for businesses that have numerous employees. In addition to this, the lock has an audit trail of the last 1,000 interactions. Essentially, it is able to record the time and authority level of whoever accessed the lock. This lock makes access control management a breeze, even for companies that have very large workforces. Each lock has 5 different authority levels that can be set to it and this allows for specific lock operations. For instance, an employee who has an authority level of ‘access user’ will not have the same privileges as an employee with the authority level of ‘master’.
Aside from the physical hardware and additional security features, the Kaba lock has some other traits that contribute to making it one of the best keypad door locks. The lock employs anti-tamper lockout protocols that effectively locks out users after a certain number of failed attempts. This security measure makes it increasingly difficult for anyone to guess the right combination (which could be anywhere between 4 to 9 digits). The lock also has an automatic re-lock function that can be set between 3 to 20 seconds. Furthermore, the Kaba E-Plex series locks have 3 Hours UL Fire Rated deadbolts, which takes another potential vulnerability of the list.
1. Sargent Keypad Cylindrical Lock
If you are still reading this, then you should give yourself a pat on the back for making it all the way to number 1. There are a lot of positive things going on for the Sargent keypad lock, which is why it is in the top spot, but before we dive into all the good things, let’s get the bad out of the way. Don’t be alarmed, because there aren’t a lot of negative things to say about this lock.
The biggest flaw that this keypad door lock has is the fact that it is not a keyless lock. For the most part, as long as there is a keyway, a lock can be bypassed given enough time. This holds true for even the most secure locks. If a criminal is given enough time (this could be minutes or hours), there is always a possibility that they could bypass a lock. Now that that is out of the way, let’s focus on the positive aspects of this lock.
The Sargent keypad cylindrical lock is comprised of a certified ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt and body, which is the highest grade security that you can get for your lock. In addition to this, the Sargent keypad has a 10 line cylindrical lock that exceeds the ANSI Grade 1 ratings in two categories. First, the lock exceeds the cycle test 5 times over.
The cycle test is essentially testing how many cycles the lock can go through before it starts to show signs of wear and tear. A regular ANSI Grade 1 lock is 500,000 cycles, and the Sargent lock exceeds that 5 times over. Furthermore, the lock also exceeds the abusive locked lever torque. These simple statistics show that these locks from Sargent are in a league of their own.
These locks are able to store up to 100 user codes and they also make provisions for authority level codes. These authority level codes range between master codes, emergency codes and supervisory codes. It is important to note that the emergency code can be used to gain entry even when the deadbolt is thrown, and even if the battery is operating at very low power. This simple measures handles two separate situations deftly. For instance, imagine that emergency personnel needed to open your lock, your Sargent lock would not bar them. Also the lock makes it nearly impossible to ever be locked out due to low battery power, because the emergency code will always work.
In terms of additional security, the lock also provides safeguards against unauthorized entry. If three wrong entry codes are entered in succession, then all codes are disabled for a brief period of time. It also allows you to view an audit trail of the access that people have to the lock, which is an effective tool for access management.
Conclusion
Choosing a lock isn’t always about selecting the most secure option and tacking it onto your front door. There are many other factors that have to be considered, like the price of the lock and the way you interact with it. However, when all of these factors are being considered, make sure that you adequately weigh the safety and security of your home. This will help you choose the best keypad door lock for your needs, without sacrificing your security.
The post 8 Best Keypad Door Locks appeared first on United Locksmith.
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3 Window Treatment Ideas for Tall Windows
Beautiful large windows have huge advantages including lots of natural light and the ability to admire inspiring views from the comfort of your sofa. However, you might be wondering how you going to furnish these gorgeous windows. Check out these 3 window treatment ideas for tall windows:
Image Source: Flickr
Drapery
Drapery, the most traditional choice for tall windows, makes your room feel dramatic and regal.
When choosing drapery, keep in mind the scale of the room. A 2-inch diameter curtain rod will become lost on top of a 15-foot-tall window, so use bigger drapery hardware and larger pleats for your drapes so you can see the grand effect.
Personalize the drapery to match your home style by using tiebacks, patterns or valances.
Layer different materials to add interest and dimension to your drapery. You can also include different colors to match your home decor. Source: Angieslist
Roman Shades
If you need multiple roman shades to fill a wide wall of windows, make sure you choose a pattern that allows you to stack each shade next to each other so it feels like one long shade. When there are no breaks in between each shade, your window looks streamlined.
Tip: Don’t forget to hang them higher than the windows if your windows are low. When measuring the height you need for the shades, be sure to include the extra material to cover the gap between ceiling and top of the window. Source: Houzz
Top down / Bottom up Cellular
Cellular shades are a clean and modern look to consider as a tall window treatment idea. Their energy efficiency is perfect when the midday sun is streaming through your tall windows, keeping you cool inside. What is most amazing about cellular shades is that they are available in a top down/bottom up feature. The top and bottom of your shade move independently, giving you precise command of how much light is flowing into your home, preserving privacy without sacrificing natural light. Source: BlindsGalore
Contact:
Universal Blinds
601 – 1550 W. 10th Ave
Vancouver, V6J 1Z9
Canada
Phone: (604) 559-1988
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Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Welcome Breakfast Engages ISB's New Parents
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Roots & Shoots
Hey guys!! Roots & Shoots is having our first event during WEDNESDAY LUNCH! We will be giving away shaved ice of two flavors: lime & strawberry-papaya as a prize! All you have to do to earn this reward is answer one of our questions correctly. Thats all! ONLY ONE!! Its super easy. Swing by our table during lunchtime in the Cafeteria to come win your shaved ice :) It's open to anyone.
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Market Update from Invis – Team RRP – August 2017
The post Market Update from Invis – Team RRP – August 2017 appeared first on Invis Team RRP.
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Writer in Residence
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10 Tips for Success in High School
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Monday, August 28, 2017
STUCO Members of 2017-2018!
Class of 2021:
President: Austin Li
AC: William Zhou
PR: Siming Feng
Secretary: Austin Wang
Class of 2020
President: Christina Ellis
AC: Helen Shu
PR: Perry Dong
Secretary: Alan Wang
Class 2019
President: Sung Cho
Activities Coordinator: Leo Cheng
PR: Issac Tong
Secretary: Justin Zeng
Class of 2018
President: Spencer Shia
Activities Coordinator: Brian Liu
PR: Jean Hsu
Secretary: Catherine Sze
Executive Council
President: Sean Bai
AC: Max Barte
PR: William Lee
Secretary: Sang Yoon Choi
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7 Ways To Save Money On Your Storefront Door Locks
Storefront entry doors are the way people come into your business. They are the first interaction anyone has with your building. A storefront door lock is going to keep those doors secure. But that is an oversimplification of the role storefront locks play in the daily routine of a building. You should not underestimate the importance of a storefront door lock, but that does not mean you need to spend a fortune getting what you need. Here are the things you need to know about saving money on your storefront locks.
The Main Concerns for Storefront Entry Doors
You need to know what your goals are, and the types of complications you can run into when you are looking at purchasing a storefront door lock. When it comes to storefront entry doors, there are several key things that demand your attention.
Door Construction – The materials your storefront entry doors are made out of greatly coincide with the effectiveness of the locks. They will play a role in the security considerations, possible safety strategy, and what you can expect to get out of your storefront locks. A storefront door lock is only a good as the door it is attached to. Locks are meant to control the functioning of the storefront entry doors, so the door will determine some restriction or necessities of the lock it will use.
Security – Protection is a foundational concern for storefront entry doors because it is the main reason to have a door. However, just a door is not enough for security. A storefront door lock needs to be able to secure doors from opening. For some businesses, this feature may be necessary during hours of operation as well as when the store is closed for the night. It is important to know how the security of a storefront door lock is overcome so that you can find the threats you are most vulnerable to.
Safety – Not every storefront door lock is appropriate for in all occasions. Security may not always be the main concern for a particular door. Fast and unencumbered egress is a must for larger storefronts are certainly a necessity for any shop whose industry raises the chances of an emergency incident. Sometimes storefront locks have to be equipped to be intuitive and quick to open in order to benefit customers and employees. Depending on the floor plan of the building, the storefront entry doors might also be the most viable emergency exit.
Lifespan – How long a storefront door lock will last determines its overall effectiveness. It can get rather costly to always be replacing your storefront locks. You want locks that are going to stand the test of time, and in a commercial setting, time can move rather quickly. The concern is about more than just a tarnished finish (and the “lifetime guarantee” most locks offer is strictly on the finish). You want internal components that are not going the break due to repeated locking and unlocking. You also want a lock that is going to resist the weathering your local area is subjected to.
Expectations – You have to understand what level of protection you are hoping to get from your storefront door lock. It is wrong to expect ten or even twenty dollar storefront locks to adequately protect thousands of dollars worth of product and/or equipment. It is important to be realistic with both your intended goals and the ability of a storefront door lock. High expectations are perfectly fine, as long as they are realistic.
Where to Invest With Storefront Locks
When you understand the biggest concerns with your storefront entry doors, you can better determine where it makes sense to spend your money. Being aware of where you need to invest in order to achieve your expectations streamlines the selection process for your storefront locks. Here are some of the things you may want to devote some money to achieving with a storefront door lock.
Convenience – How quickly an employee can close and open the store allows for some financial benefit, but that is not the only reason to invest in convenience. If the security demands of a store are severe enough to demand authorization for entrance and exit, a buzz-in system can provide a convenient way to allow customers to come and go without disturbing employees from completing other tasks. Convenience can also have to do with ease of egress. It is important to remember that, more often than not, the more convenient something is, the less secure it is. This is something that rings true for the use of a storefront door lock.
Pick Resistance – Many people consider lock picking to be a major threat to their storefront locks. However, it is very unlikely that a criminal will try to pick your locks. It is true that all locks can be picked, but that is more of an intellectual truism than it is a statement of threat. Unless you have been made aware of a specific threat in your area or to your storefront, there is a very slim chance that a storefront door lock will be picked open. There are still ways to decrease the susceptibility of a storefront door lock to picking that will also take care of more pressing security threats.
Anti-Bump – A storefront door lock is more likely to be attacked with bump keys. For that reason, you need a lock that can protect against lock bumping. Understanding why bump keys don’t work on cars can give some insight on the types of investments you can make to benefit the anti-bump protection of a storefront door lock. Anti-bump methods assist in creating pick resistance because the same internal components that keep bump keys from effectively opening a lock can also cause confusion for lock pickers. Methods used for key control, such as patented keys, can also reduce the chances of bumping open a storefront door lock.
Key Control – If you are looking to avoid the issues caused by internal threats, you must have some form of key control for your storefront locks. Key control has a lot to do with making sure that only individuals who were given access have it. It is also intended to assure that once access is revoked, this can be relied upon as verification that the affected parties no longer have keys to any storefront door lock. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is to use a storefront door lock that has a patented keyway. Patented keys cannot be copied without a special key cutter on a restricted key blank. It is unlikely for criminals to have access to these resources, and prevents employees from making copies that you don’t know about.
Metal Composition – The metal of any storefront door lock has to be sturdy. Solid hardened metal construction is a necessity to prevent the most common types of destructive entry. Those methods are mainly drilling, cutting, prying, and bludgeoning. With strong metal, drill bits and cutting tools will be deflected off the surface of the lock. (How effective this deflection is will largely be dependant on the hardness of the lock’s metal compared to the hardness of the bit or blade).
Prying and bludgeoning attacks will also need to bring a tremendous amount of force in order to be successful. These types of precautions limit what type of criminal could overcome your security. They reduce the risk of giving a burglar a lucky break and increase the amount of skill someone would need to undermine the security of your storefront locks.
Bypass Protection – Not all storefront locks are created equal, but some are made with weaknesses that almost anyone can covertly exploit. You can think of locks that have bypasses as creating the illusion of security. Such bypasses include, but are not limited to, through the door methods, shimming, and keyway exploits. Through the door bypasses can be prevented by closing the gap between storefront entry doors and the frame.
You can also remove the thumb turn on the interior side of the door, so there is nothing to manipulate once a criminal has moved their tool through the doorway. Shimming is most common with door handles/knobs, but if you are using a padlock as a storefront door lock, or as part of the security of your storefront entry doors, it can also be an issue. Not using a door handle lock exclusively, and choosing one of the best padlocks on the market, will take care of this issue. For insight on preventing keyway exploits, you will need to check with a professional for insight on your current lock or the lock you are looking to purchase.
Money Saving Methods for Storefront Locks
Now that you know what you should be concerned about, and the aspects of your storefront locks that you want to invest in, there is no reason to break the bank achieving the quality security you are looking for with your storefront locks. Here are some of the money-saving tactics for storefront door locks. How much money can be saved will depend on whether you are looking to replace an existing storefront door lock, or if you are hoping to get storefront locks you need and do not already have. But in either case, there are ways to save money on storefront locks.
1. Rekeying
There are several instances where you can save a lot of money by rekeying a storefront door lock instead of taking on the cost of changing locks. The reason that rekeying is cheaper than other forms of replacement is their amount of the material being replaced is rather small. In the case of standard pin tumbler locks, the pins inside the lock cylinder are what makes a key work with the lock. These internal components will be the easiest to replace, and will likely be the cheapest lock type to rekey. This is due to their wide-scale use, which creates a general familiarity and increases the availability of these type of replacement parts.
Depending on the lock, the amount of money saved can be increased by taking on this task yourself. There are rekeying sets that come complete with instructions, pins, and new keys. However, these sets rarely offer high-security. If you are concerned with covert entry and key control, even having the ability to use one of these sets will signal the vulnerability of your lock. This is not a hard and fast rule, but it does mean you should re-assess the security being offered by your storefront door lock.
Rekeying is effective most commonly when a new vulnerability to key control is anticipated. This type of issue surfaces around the termination of an employee who had a key. In cases where several employees with key access have been let go, the issue can be even more pressing. The only thing you are really looking to do at this time is make sure that any spare key they could have made does not work in the lock. This could also be necessary if someone loses their keys, and they might have fallen into the wrong hands. But rekeying can also fix issues with worn internals to save money on a full replacement.
2. Commercial Locks
Not all storefront entry doors utilize commercial storefront door locks. Whether it is a result of the building owner or previous business that occupied your location, without changing locks, you might not have the type of storefront door lock you need. If you are looking for a commercial lockset, it is best to stay clear of the locks at Home Depot. Most of these locks will be for residential doors, and the misinformed opinions of the employees can be misleading. Purchasing can be handled online if you know the dimensions of the locks you could install. Your storefront locks are likely to be some form of mortise lock, but the considerations for these locks can get rather complicated.
You may not want a simple mortise lock. In terms of looking to achieve some level of convenience, you can invest in electronic locks or even magnetic locks. If you already have something like this installed, you may be looking to install a simpler system. With an existing mortise lock that you are happy with, you may be looking to simply upgrade your lock cylinder. This will be cheaper than getting an entirely new lock, and it can give you the ability to install an incredibly high-security device.
Just having a commercial storefront door lock will save you money. Storefront locks designed for commercial use are designed to withstand more turns and key rotations than residential locks. In the case of commercial mortise locks, servicing is made simpler by having large parts that can be replaced without having to do away with the whole lock. These large parts can also take more abuse as they have a thicker metal construction. You are saving money by being able to fix the lock rather than having to replace it, and also saving money by decreasing the number of times the lock will need to be serviced.
3. Consistent Maintenance
There are certain things that business owners can do to their storefront locks to extend the life of these devices. With routine maintenance handled with some regularity and proper servicing knowledge, you can make sure the storefront door lock is not being harmed unnecessarily. If the lock is sticking, the amount of force being used to open it can create stress that is decreasing the lifespan of the lock. By keeping the lock in good working order, it will only be subjected to the lowest amount of wear and tear.
One of the simplest methods of maintaining a lock is by using some lubricant in the keyway, latches, bolts, and even occasionally lubricating the bolt work. This helps reduce the friction as the polish on components begins to wear off. There is a lot of metal that needs to grind against other metal in order for a lock to function. The smoother these interactions are, the less that grinding is damaging the materials involved.
The issue of what type of lubrication is a bit of a complicated subject in the locksmithing and security communities. There is a rather heated debate about which form of lubricant is the best. Some claim that the use of the wrong lubrication can do more damage than good. It is a topic that truly demands an entire article all to its own, but the main products to consider are oil and dry spray lube. A commonly used oil lubricant is WD-40, which is commonly available and widely recognized. Dry lube, such as graphite can stain anything it touches, so use with caution.
4. Repinning
Different than rekeying, you can also repin a lock. This method can be used to save money on replacing a lock if the reason for its decreased functionality (or even lack of functionality) is due to worn pins. When the pins wear down keys will stop working, as the key will no longer elevate the pins properly. This type of issue is rather difficult to diagnose without some trial and error, but if a lock is particularly old and many keys have worn out, this could be an issue you are experiencing.
Another way repining can save money is by turning a standard storefront door lock into a higher security lock. This will not take care of some the high-security needs, but it can be used to establish some drilling protection. With the use of stainless steel pins, the keyway can repel certain methods of destructive entry. But repinning is more commonly done to create a greater resistance to covert entry, including raking and single pin picking.
When a lock is repinned it is not necessarily rekeyed. It can work with all of the same keys, but the pins can be changed out with security pins. This is popular with locksport enthusiasts, who create challenge locks that test the skills of other lock pickers. These kinds of upgrades decrease the chance of novices opening your lock covertly. When a storefront door lock is repinned with security pins, it can really throw off burglars who are familiar with your type of lock. Because burglars develop general skills that they try to apply where they recognize a vulnerability, this will baffle most criminals. Even those with security knowledge may be confused simply because they thought they knew what to expect.
5. Brand Awareness
Knowing about the various available products, and the reputations of their manufacturers help you see through the false inducements and high prices that are meant to inspire confidence. Knowing the market helps to save money by knowing what is not worth investing in. Just because something is a trusted door lock brand does not mean that it is a good security product. Not everyone is aware that there are some notoriously low-quality security brands.
There are also some products that are advertised by certain news publications as secure when they have very widely recognized as having severe exploits. Reviews on online sites are not reliable to learn about security flaws. You need the insight of people who actively work on testing the protections these manufacturers and their products offer. A good reputation among the purchasers of these locks does not mean the products are worth the amount of money they are claiming to be worth.
Brand awareness will also allow you to choose between two similar products. Knowing the differences between two high-security storefront locks can help you to weigh the pros and cons of choosing one over the other. And if products are offered at discounted rates, the superior product may even be a bit cheaper. Knowing a good deal when you see it helps you capitalize on saving money with new storefront door lock purchases.
6. Layering Security
Depending on the layout of your store, it might not make sense to focus all of your security budget on your storefront entry doors. Layering security is a great way to potentially save money on your storefront door locks by using a variety of methods to achieve more than security. For example, something like a security camera can potentially discourage theft and vandalism, but also document issues and give you insight into the threats your business is facing. But there are certain things you need to know before buying a security camera.
Even if you have the best security camera possible, there are still more layers that you can add to protect your storefront. Monitored security systems can add a level of response to your security that other devices are incapable of. If there is an issue, private security companies or the police can be called automatically. Security gates can be used to protect the store at night, and these can be secured with more locks, providing yet another locked boundary between your store and the outside world.
7. Call A Locksmith
Many people would not think that calling a locksmith would allow them to save money on their storefront locks, but there are actually several ways that a locksmith can help to reduce costs pertaining to a storefront door lock. The biggest way that they can assist with lowering the financial commitment you are making is by assuring that tasks are done correctly. Lock installation can be tricky, but more complex rekeying and repinning may necessitate the assistance of a professional.
It is always cheaper to have something done right, then to pay nothing to have it done wrong. In the case of a storefront door lock, doing something wrong runs the risk of compromising the full investment. The lock can jam or become irrevocably damaged if it is handled wrong. In cases of minor errors, storefront locks may not work reliably, which increases the risk of someone gaining unauthorized access to the building.
A locksmith will also have the insight needed to guide you through all of these options. The most important thing for you to do is choose the best locksmith. Once you know who the best locksmith is in theory, you should familiarize yourself with what it is like to call a locksmith. In the case of this type of assessment, it might be best to seek out a mobile locksmith. With a locksmith that can come to you, they can get a better sense of your location and the types of threats you may face.
Conclusion
The first step to saving money on with your storefront door lock is to know what you are most concerned about. From there, it is important to know what aspects of your storefront locks should be invested in to achieve the type of goals you have laid out. Once that is determined, you can begin to understand all of the ways to save your hard-earned cash without having to sacrifice the security you need.
The post 7 Ways To Save Money On Your Storefront Door Locks appeared first on United Locksmith.
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Sunday, August 27, 2017
CALLING ALL HS ATHLETES!
If you would be keen to work on your speed, endurance, strength and flexibility on Tuesdays or Thursdays after school, please come to a short meeting at 11:15 at the start of lunch on Thursday in the The Glass Box.
This will be a great opportunity to do some sport specific work out of season or to complement what you are doing at practice right now!
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IB Meeting
Gr. 11 Students are reminded to meet the IB coordinator in the Theater on Tuesday during flex time. Bring your laptop. This meeting is for all grade 11 students who attend even one IB year 1 class.
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Fifth Block This Week
Gr. 12 students are reminded that fifth block this Wednesday is allocated to Chinese L&L HL class. See your teacher for expectations, locations and times.
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Flex Time This Week
|
Monday |
Tuesday |
Wednesday |
Thursday |
Friday |
|
Grade Level Assembly G9 in Gym 2 G10 in Upper Gallery G11 in MPR G12 in Theater |
Mentoring for Grade 9 Study Hall for Grade 10 & 12 IB Meeting in the Theatre for all Grade 11 students |
No Flex |
Mentoring for all |
Mentoring for Grade 9 Study Hall for Grade 10-12 |
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FCD Parent Meeting
Feedback: Hear the results from the Student Attitudes and Behavior Survey our students completed last fall
Parents, mark your calendars for this high school parent session. It will take place on Tuesday, September 5th, 10:00am – 11:30am in the Upper Gallery.
Click here for more information.
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Saturday, August 26, 2017
Carleton by Censorio – Burnaby Heights
Carleton by Censorio is the next new development to come to the popular Burnaby Heights neighbourhood. With all the shops, services, easy access to downtown Vancouver, SFU and the North Shore, you can see why people choose to live in Burnaby Heights. Carleton is a small boutique building which will feature only 28 units comprised of 1 and 2 bedroom conods. These homes will range in size from 591 to 1119 square feet.
To be kept up to date on this development and many more like it, register with us today!
This is not an offering for sale. Such an offering can only be made after filing a disclosure statement. E.&O.E. This information is for marketing purposes only and is subject to change.
The post Carleton by Censorio – Burnaby Heights appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.
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Friday, August 25, 2017
Salisbury South – Port Coquitlam Townhomes
After quickly selling out Salisbury Walk and Salisbury Lane, Macleans Homes is ready to bring their newest townhomes development to Port Coquitlam. Salisbury South is a new townhouse development will be centrally located at 2145 Prairie Avenue, Port Coquitlam, This boutique collection of townhomes will feature the same quality, comfort and privacy as their first two Salisbury projects, all nestled in a quiet residential neighbourhood of west Port Coquitlam.
To be kept up to date with this development or others like it, Register now to be kept in the loop
This is not an offering for sale. Such an offering can only be made after filing a disclosure statement. E.&O.E. This information is for marketing purposes only and is subject to change.
The post Salisbury South – Port Coquitlam Townhomes appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.
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Thursday, August 24, 2017
Juneau – Brentwood – By Amacon
Juneau by Amacon, located at 2285 Willingdon Ave, is next new development coming to Brentwood. Juneau will be a 24 storey concrete building consisting of 147 1, 2, & 3 bedroom condos, as well as 5 Townhomes along the podium. Each architecturally unique home will feature large balconies!
Juneaus’ amenities will include a gym, yoga studio, game room, and access to the rooftop deck.
To be kept up to date on Juneau by Amacon and would like to receive floor-plans as they’re released please register with us, and we will keep you up-to-date!
The post Juneau – Brentwood – By Amacon appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.
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3 Ways to Childproof Windows at Home
Children’s curiosity pushes them to try out new things and explore new places. As a parent, you have to ensure their safety by childproofing your entire home. Here, you’ll find the best tips in making your windows much safer for the kids.
Image Source: Flickr
Securely Anchor Curtains and Drapes
When toddlers first learn to walk, they tend to use things around them to pull themselves up. This makes long drapes susceptible to tugs, and if they are not securely anchored to the wall, the result can be disastrous.
Make sure your curtain rod is securely fastened to its wall mount brackets, not just resting on them. If these brackets are not attached to studs, be sure to use hollow wall anchors. Another option is to simply switch up your décor and hang shorter drapes until your child gets a bit older. Source: Omaha
Keep the Cord Out of Reach
- Do not place any cribs, beds, or furniture close to any windows because children can climb on them and gain access to the cords.
- Make sure to make all loose cords inaccessible and keep all window cords out of the reach of children at all times. If you have tasseled pull cords short, make sure to keep them as short as possible, and permanently anchor any continuous-loop cords to the floor or wall.
- Lock cords into position when lowering horizontal coverings or shades to prevent inner-cord hazards.
- If the window shade has looped bead chains or nylon cords, install tension devices to keep the cord taut. Source: TheSpruce
Don’t Leave the Window Open
Lock your windows. Many windows have built-in locks you can latch shut with a key to prevent the window from opening. If your windows have keys built-in, this is your best option for baby proofing your windows. If your windows do not have keys, however, use another method. Installing keys is costly and time-consuming and it’s far easier to use an alternative window locking method. Source: WikiHow
We can help you pick a window treatment that isn’t just safe for your kids, but also functional and trendy. Give us a call!
Contact:
Universal Blinds
601 – 1550 W. 10th Ave
Vancouver, V6J 1Z9
Canada
Phone: (604) 559-1988
The post 3 Ways to Childproof Windows at Home appeared first on Universal Blinds, Shades & Shutters.
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Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Join the Nightingale Charity Club!
Are YOU Loving? Creative? Fun? Dedicated? Looking for a great club to join? If you answer yes to any of these then NCC is the club for you! Nightingale Charity Club is a group of students that engage with the local community through various acts of service. Currently, we are working closely with the Langfang Orphanage. We engage in fun activities with the kids and provide them with love, care, and emotional support that would otherwise be unfamiliar to them. In addition, we also host a variety of fundraisers throughout the year (for example Winter Fair, Food Week, Spring Fair Booths – Foam Pool, DIY T-Shirts and Hats, Shaving Cream.) All of the proceeds go towards children in need of urgent or long-term medical care!
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Join the Student Wellness Council!
Hello!!!
We are a close group that is committed to promoting wellness – physical, mental, emotional, and environmental within the ISB community through planning yummy food sales and hosting fun activities!!
If so, stop by 1108 on Friday at lunchtime (11:20-11:50) with your lunch to join Student Wellness Council and see what we're about!
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Hope Healing Home Visits are Starting Soon!
Hope Healing Home is a local foster center that cares for and supports children with special medical needs. ISB has a long relationship with the home and has been supporting them in various ways for several years. Beginning the weekend of September 1st, we will resume our weekly visits with trips on both Saturdays and Sundays (8:30 – 12:00).
The commitment to this service activity involves attending the full 12 sessions and while you are there, contributing and engaging positively with the children and staff at the home. There will be a brief but mandatory information and sign up meeting on Monday, August 28th at lunch in Room 2113, beginning promptly at 11:20. If you cannot make this meeting but would like to sign up you must contact Miss Angela Fournier (afournier).
If you have any questions before the meeting, please pop by and see me.
Miss Angela
Office 2207 or Room 2113
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MS HS Cafeteria Notice
Due to the constricted space and crowding at MS and HS lunch times, the small door by the corner of the coffee shop will be closed and locked over lunch times. The main entry will be by the large door by the PTA store. The closure times will be :
Mon, Tue, Thur and Fri 11.00- 12.30
Wednesdays : 11.00 - 1.15
This will start on Thursday 24th August. It will be trialed for a few weeks and then reviewed. In the meanwhile, Chartwells, Security and Facilities are looking at longer term plans to ease movement in this area of the cafeteria.
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HFH
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10 Things You Need To Consider About Perimeter Security
In the modern age, there are many things to consider about creating adequate perimeter security systems. The innovations in security technology have allowed building owners access to many avenues of protection. All of this can get rather overwhelming, but it is important that you learn to navigate the finer points of perimeter security.
What Is Perimeter Security?
The perimeter of a building is the area around a structure or property. Sometimes the term perimeter security is used to describe all the security that prevents entry into a building itself. Most commonly, perimeter security means boundaries besides the exterior of a structure, such as walls and other fortifications.
1. Locks
One of the most important considerations, in terms of perimeter security, are the locks you are using. We will get a little more into this in the gate section, but right now I want to talk about what to look for in a lock in general. The biggest concern for the locks you will be using with your perimeter security is often destructive entry. The most likely breach that a property is likely to experience will be forced entry, which simply destroys the lock to allow a criminal to pass the perimeter security systems. The solution to this threat is hardened metal alloys that are as thick as possible. You want the strongest materials and as much of those materials as possible.
In the case of perimeter security, what you are hoping to prevent by investing in locks that make use of hardened metal alloys are mainly cutting attacks. This is due to the widespread and historic use of padlocks on gates. Cutting the shackles of these locks is often the most effective method of entry. You must also consider the hasp or chain being secured by the padlock, as these may also be targeted by cutting attacks. If they are weaker than the lock, the strength of the lock will be inconsequential.
In terms of covert entry, many people worry that their perimeter security systems will be overcome by some form of lock picking. Every lock can be picked, but that is not usually the best place to spend time and resources on prevention. It is extremely unlikely that anyone will attempt to undermine your perimeter security via lock picking. It is exceedingly more common that bump keys will be used. For that reason, you should look into ways to protect against bump keys. These methods will also help to prevent lock picking, but again, that is a less pressing concern. Internal complexity for locks will help your perimeter security in general and help to stop unauthorized key duplication (but we will talk more about that in the access control section).
Key Takeaways:
- A lock should use strong metal and be as thick as possible where possible.
- Criminals will most likely to to break a lock or whatever is weakest on a gate or door.
- Lock bumping is more or a covert entry concern than lock picking.
2. Walls
Unlike a fence, a wall has a certain innate restrictive relationship between visibility and height. The higher the walls, the less visible the interior will be from outside the perimeter, and the less visible the outside of the perimeter will be from the interior. Height allows for privacy and creates a greater obstacle to illegal entry, but a limitation on visibility means greater cover for anyone approaching the property. Both visibility and height have something to offer to perimeter security, but you must determine which works better to achieve your goals.
One of the largest goals you are looking to achieve with perimeter security, and security in general, is to come in “at” or “under” budget. With a high wall, visibility concerns can be tackled with security cameras or other forms of documentation, such as security guards. Documentation is a key consideration regardless, but it is also one of the most costly, complicated, and time-consuming. In the case residential perimeter security, these additional steps may not be feasible.
It all comes down to the intention of your perimeter security. Ideally, a wall is offering you a sturdier barrier than a gate, which will force people to go over it if they mean to enter illegally. This type of controlled vulnerability allows for more fine-tuned perimeter security planning. You are experiencing greater privacy as a result of the solid boundary and concentrating the focus of forced entry onto the gate.
Key Takeaways:
- With walls visibility is sacrificed for height and vice versa.
- The way around low visibility is better documentation and monitoring.
- Walls offer greater resistance to force than many gates.
3. Fencing
There is an extreme flexibility in having the forefront of your perimeter security be a fence. The price, look, and functionality of a fence have an almost unparalleled range. The perforations and openings between slats, links, planks, etc., can offer extreme visibility or a wall-like appearance. You can grow ivy, or other plants, to change the level of visibility of pre-existing fence without having to undergo full replacement. In extreme cases where you need to increase perimeter security, the most common fences are easier to electrify (but this will vary on the material of the fence).
It is likely that a fence will be weaker than a wall, but if you are not concerned with automotive ramming threats, this may not be a factor you care about. This type of protection will vary, but often a fence can be compromised at certain points (either by vandalism or wear), and create unintended entryways that defeat all of the existing perimeter security measures. Even if these openings are not wide enough for a human being, your perimeter security could be vulnerable to animal infestation, or pet escape.
A fence is similar to a wall, but it uses a post based system that commonly has material lined along the posts to shape the appearance of the fence. Wood fences and chain link are the most common fence types. Often a fence is intended to denote that people should go not father, or are simply intended to denote a property line. They provide little security on their own, but with electrification or barbed wire, they become somewhat formidable. A fence alone is very rarely high-security.
Key Takeaways:
- Fences have many options in terms of both security and privacy.
- A fence can break down easier than a wall due to wear, neglect, or vandalism.
- Fences without additional security are mainly a suggestion of protection.
4. Gates
I have written an entire piece about gate security, but there are certain factors that should be highlighted more precisely in terms of the role gates play in perimeter security. Your gate is the chance to make a moving boundary in you perimeter security. Simply put, a gate is a moving section on a gate or wall that allows entry past a building’s perimeter security systems. Without a gate, there would be no exit or entry past the perimeter of a building.
The gate will need a locking mechanism. In the locks section, we have already talked about the considerations for the locks themselves, but it is still good to know when each type of lock can be used. If you are planning on taking vehicles past the perimeter security, it may be ideal to use a motorized track and electronic lock. For gates that will not have heavy traffic, or only have foot traffic, choosing a high-security padlock may be what you need. There may also be a gate setup that allows you to use a deadbolt and/or keyed handle/knob.
Building effective perimeter security systems means focusing on security and not convenience, so a keyed handle/knob is not ideal to secure a gate. A deadbolt provides more security based on the way the locking mechanism prevents simple bypass techniques. However, you need to consider the strength of the deadbolt you are using. All of these lock based gate considerations will give you more insight on what you need for the gate, in terms of height and defense. If your lock is too strong, the gate itself will be the most likely target for forced entry, even if that forced entry is simple climbing over the gate.
Key Takeaways:
- A gate is the boundary that moves to or stays secure to deny and allow access past a perimeter.
- Gates will likely use electronic locks, padlocks, or repurposed door locks depending on the type of traffic that will pass through the gate.
- If the gate is secured to well, the material of the gate may be attacked or moved over.
5. Lighting
An often overlooked aspect of perimeter security is the type of lighting being used. If you have not considered what your perimeter security system is offering the property in terms of lighting, the first aspect to assess is shadows. When the perimeter has trees, pillars, and other tall obstructions, even the strongest lights can leave exceedingly dark shadows. Lighting provides the opportunity to see an intruder approaching or attempting to overcome your perimeter security.
If you do not have someone constantly monitoring the perimeter, motion sensor lights are effective in focusing attention. This is the choice of many residential buildings without any security patrols. When residents need to notice and deal with threats, a light suddenly turning on does a good job of gathering some attention. If this light is in front of a perimeter wall, or obstructing fence, inhabitants within the business may not be able to see the light. In cases like this, you will be looking to gather the attention of neighbors or pedestrians.
The further removed a person from caring about you is, who sees something suspicious illuminated by the lighting of your perimeter security system, the less likely they are to intervene. Everyone has some interest in preventing a crime from occurring, but when a neighbor does not know about the threats, inhabitants, and goals of your perimeter security, people make excuses for doing nothing. By and large, people are looking to avoid confrontation. If they do not know you, or even like you, help with these perimeter alerts is doubtful.
Key Takeaways:
- Even the best lights can create shadows, which allow criminals to hide themselves.
- Motion activated lights are effective in getting attention if their light is not obscured by a wall or obstruction.
- If you cannot notice what is happening in the light, you need neighbors and pedestrians to be concerned about you.
6. Alerts and Notification
You have to be informed about breaches or attempted breaches to your perimeter security system. A common question is, “Should I get a dog or an alarm system?” You can get both, but the answer to that question is going to ultimately come down more to your ability to take care of an animal than it will the security offered by either. In terms of alarms for your perimeter security system, the best option is something that offers monitored security. Services with monitoring capabilities allow the authorities to be notified in times of emergency.
Contacting a private security company or the local police automatically are effective only if their response times are within the average time it takes to commit a break-in. They must also be prepared to face a confrontation with the criminal(s). If you are planning to respond to personal alerts given by your perimeter security system, you must be able to meet these standards. Without this type of response, notifications are rather unnecessary. An alarm that is loud may be preferred to alert anyone who is around to the illegality taking place.
In terms of a perimeter security system that has notification capabilities, you can choose to go with something more discrete such as a smart lock. There are several features that you should look for when choosing a smart lock, but one that can offer greater perimeter security is access notification. This allows owners to know when a lock has been opened. This data log is perfect if you are concerned with internal threats.
Key Takeaways:
- You need to have a way of being alerted to a crime or breach of security.
- Whoever is alerted must be able to respond in a timely and effective fashion.
- Smart locks can log who accesses a lock and when.
7. Documentation
In this current age, the most likely perimeter security systems are going to rely on security cameras. This is largely due to the increased access to these products, which simple DIY surveillance cameras have created. These products have a level of quality that makes them very effective in capturing footage of threats to your perimeter security. But for how popular this proposed solution is, it is not enough to simply have recordings of your property.
Knowing the basics of what you can film with a camera will provide a good foundation. You need to stay on the right side of the law with all of your documentation efforts, or you will risk losing any type of effectiveness for this type of perimeter security system. It is also important to know the intentions of your documentation efforts. If you are hoping to use this information to prosecute or find criminals or trespassers, this can be exceedingly difficult. Using footage to achieve a conviction or even an arrest, has many issues.
Besides your evidence being on trial and the difficulty of solving property crimes, setting yourself up for clear usable footage is no easy task. You need to get the right type of camera that has the capability to record in the environment it is in. Issues with glare during the day and visibility during the night (or the transition of perimeter lights turning on), are very common in making footage unusable. And in terms of placement, you must have a location in mind that is most likely to be targeted, or you will need a lot of cameras.
Key Takeaways:
- Recording the boundaries of your property is not enough on its own to constitute security.
- You must know what you can do, cannot do, and intend to do with your footage.
- Camera placement effects what is captured in terms of usability of footage and the actual documentation of a crime.
8. Natural Barriers
There are many natural elements that can affect your perimeter security system positively and negatively. A positive natural barrier is something that offers an another level of perimeter security to the property. In the days of castles, this would be things like having an ocean or cliff face behind a structure, severely limit options for an approach. In the current age, these natural protections can be things like proximity to a police station or a single long road that leads to your home. Anything additional your location offers your perimeter security creates a positive natural barrier to criminals.
There are also natural barriers to your security, that prevent you from being able to take full advantage of your possible perimeter security system. There may be a treeline on a side of your property that allows criminals to cover their approach with no real way of detection if the area in question is too large. Heavy foot traffic may make light sensors and motion based cameras alert you to so many false alarms that this becomes a hassle without offering any security.
You need to know what is working for you and what is working against you. Capitalize on the positive barriers and try to compensate for what you cannot change in terms of negative barriers. Do not use a method of perimeter security just to use it. Unhelpful investments that are undercut by natural barriers often lead to perimeter security system fatigue. When you use something without considering if it is the right choice for your property, it can make you feel like nothing you do is good enough. Do not discourage yourself from taking the necessary steps in perimeter security.
Key Takeaways:
- If the location of your building offers you greater security, it has a positive natural barrier.
- Negative natural barriers prevent the effectiveness of certain types of security precautions.
- Be aware of how negative natural barriers may affect your security, and make sure you do not invest in technology that will be made ineffective.
9. Aesthetics
As great as it would be for aesthetics not to matter with your perimeter security system, it is likely not the case. What is practical is rarely pretty. Visually pleasing practical security often comes at a much higher cost. The consideration for aesthetics is to find a balance. Leaning towards something that is pleasing on the eye, and considering perimeter security as an afterthought, is dangerous. A good test you can give yourself is answering the question, “Am I doing this so the property will look good, and then looking for a way to incorporate security? Or am I trying to make the security I need look good?”
The ideal answers are “No” to the former and “Yes” to the latter. There are of course exceptions, and never doing something because it looks good, for the sake of aesthetics, is near impossible. But when something is being done for appearances it is important to look at how it affects your perimeter security. You would never want to wear clothing that raised the chances of being set on fire just because they looked good. So why would you risk the safety of your property simply for appearances? If you do something just to look good, make sure it is neutral and not a detriment to your perimeter security systems.
Key Takeaways:
- Practical security often sacrifices a pleasing appearance.
- If you do something purely because it looks good to you, make sure it only has a neutral effect on your security, or even try to achieve a positive effect.
10. Access Control
Who has been given access to the property is a very important part of making your perimeter security systems work to your benefit. Key control is a good starting point. In the case of perimeter security systems, keys could be numeric codes, RFID remotes, physical keys, etc. If you are using codes or even biometric locks, your access control management software may make it quite simple to know who is entering the property and when. If there are any issues, it may also be rather simple to revoke the privileges of troublesome individuals.
The first thing you need to consider for who you chose to give access to is trust. Not just trust that they will not take advantage of your property, but also trust that they will be smart, and take the right precautions to protect their key from being stolen or misused. Every person with access to a property has the potential to undermine any of the perimeter security systems. And the property owner is not immune to creating that potential harm.
Key control for physical keys can be taken care of by investing in locks with patented keyways. This will improve your protection against most forms of covert entry, but mostly it will prevent unauthorized key duplication. Patented keys cannot be made at your local hardware store’s lock isle. The key blanks and key cutting machines that can make these keys are disrupted to only certain vendors. And those vendors need to go through the lock manufacturer to make a key. This is much better than keys with “DO NOT DUPLICATE” markings, which do not reliably prevent unauthorized key duplication.
Key Takeaways:
- Who has the keys to your security must be vetted to find if they are endangering your property’s safety.
- People with access must also be selected for how they will protect their access from being stolen or hijacked.
- Patented keys better prevent unauthorized key duplication and assist in keeping access in the hands of the right people.
Conclusion
Now that you know some of the things you must consider with your perimeter security systems, you can make your building a formidable fortress against break-ins and unlawful entry. Stand up to the threats facing your building by taking the steps towards better perimeter security. Once you are protected, you can rest easy knowing that the things that could harm you, your possessions, and the people in your life are being held at bay. If you need help creating your own security plan, or implementing any security measures, never hesitate to reach out to a locksmith or security professional.
The post 10 Things You Need To Consider About Perimeter Security appeared first on United Locksmith.
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Tuesday, August 22, 2017
Speech & Debate Club
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Roots & Shoots
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Join Interact Club!
Now that school has started, and everyone's gotten back into the swing of things, it's time to consider joining a charity club! Interact is a service based charity, with local and international projects. We visit nursing homes every month, and aim to make meaningful connections, share experiences and gain a new perspective in addition to the everyday student life. Interact also holds multiple fundraisers a year to raise money for international projects such as EndPolio. Be a part of a charity club that values service above self. Interact meetings are every Friday during lunch in room 1110. Contact either Keith.Leung@student.isb.bj.edu.cn or Liliane.Kreuder@student.isb.bj.edu.cn for questions/details.
Thank you!
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Monday, August 21, 2017
PTA Outing to Mutianyu Greatwall
Saturday, September 16, 8am - 4:30pm
Join us to for:
- Beautiful Autumn
- Fresh Air
- Fun Company
- New Friends
- Scenery
For more information click here. Sign-up by emailing: pta@isb.bj.edu.cn or wechat: lucyhmwu Tel: 13581831168
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Three New Families at ISB: The Meiers, the Zhangs, and the Wroblewskis
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Chinese Drama Club-Every Tuesday
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Schedule Changes
Tuesday, 22 August
Schedule Changes: Today is the last day to turn in schedule change request forms. Completed forms need to be submitted to the High School Counseling Office by 3.30pm.
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I’m Locked Out of My Room! How Do I Get Back In?
None of this information should be used for illegal purposes. The most important part of the declaration, “I’m locked out of my room” is the word ‘my’. You must only use this information to regain access to a living space that you own and inhabit. Ownership and inhabiting are extremely important as ownership without being an inhabitant of something like a bedroom may be problematic in cases relating to tenants. In any case, if you have been given permission for this undertaking by the person who is saying I am locked out of my bedroom, then you are fine. Be sure to stay on the right side of the law, and call a professional before getting in over your head.
Why am I locked out of my room?
The best initial step to solving your lockout is to know the nature of the problem you are facing. Just knowing that I am locked out of my room is simply not enough to get back in. There are a few main issues that you could be having with the room. From the general knowledge about what is wrong, you can move onto opening a locked bedroom, office, or any other interior room.
1. I’m locked out of my room due to operator error:
One of the most common reasons for being locked out is simply because of something that someone has done, often absent-mindedly. This is the best possible scenario because it means that the lock is functioning properly. Locking a privacy lock and then shutting the door can be done as a mistake very simply because most interior doors can be locked and then shut.
If you are saying, I’m locked out of my room because maybe a child has locked the door behind you or an older relative was using the room, there may be more urgency to the bedroom lockout. In any case, if the lockout is the result of simple errors and there has been no breakdown of the devices you are using, getting back in will be easier.
2. I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my lock:
Issues with a room’s lock can come in a variety of forms, but this is the most complicated reason for a bedroom lockout. When there is an issue with the locking mechanism itself, it means that the door lock is not going to work reliably. This demands the most attention to troubleshooting and is likely to be the most difficult lockout to solve without a locksmith. That is not to say you will necessarily need assistance, but it is certainly more likely.
The most common types of issues with a stuck lock is to have the handle turn and the latch not retract. This can either be because the latch is stuck or because the handle or knob is has a broken connection to the latch. If the lock has a keyway, and the proper key is not working, you might not be right in thinking I am locked out of my bedroom because of the lock. However, this type of issue could be due to a complication with the key and not with the lock.
3. I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my key:
Not every room in a building will use a key. However, if you are sharing a house with several people, using keyed lock can be extremely common. The best part about key trouble is that the lock’s functionality will not be affected. Whether you have broken your key off in the lock, lost the key, or just left it in the room you are now locked out of, the lock is still working fine. You will have to get the broken key out of your lock eventually, but chances are you won’t need to do that in order to get back in. However, to use your lock properly, you will need to have a clear keyway.
There may be an issue discovering more subtle problems with your key. For example, you may think “I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my lock” but the key could just be worn. When the key is not working in the lock, the lock may be functioning properly and the key could be responsible for the lockout. If a lock is not working, even when the proper key is inserted, you should still troubleshoot this issue as if it is a key issue. You might be able to get the locked bedroom door open with methods that apply as if you knew you were locked out of your bedroom. This situation gives you more options than simply using the methods for when something is wrong with your lock.
4. I’m locked out of my room but it doesn’t have anything to do with the lock:
Standard entry handles on some rooms might not even have a lock on them. They may have simple doorknobs or door handles that turn without the possibility of being locked. However, these can still have issues with the spring-loaded latch bolt. The latch can become stuck or the handle can break. Springs can break or weaken. These issues closely mirror the concerns you would have if you were thinking I am locked out of my bedroom because of the lock.
If none of these things seem to be the issue you are experiencing, then there is a chance that there is an issue with the door itself. Door issues are more simple to diagnose when there is no locking mechanism on the door. You can tell if you are locked out of your bedroom because of a door issue if the latch bolt can be seen to retract. If the latch is not holding the door closed, then it is likely the door getting hung up on the frame or the hinges sticking. This can be due to natural wear and tear, but also due to vandalism (likely pranks in a shared living situation).
Determine the Type Of Lock
You may have an idea about the affliction your door may be suffering, or you may think “I know precisely why I am locked out of my bedroom”. The next step in getting back in is being familiar with the type of lock that you are using on the door to your room. The type of lock you have determines the best entry method to use just as much as the issue you are experiencing.
Unkeyed Handle – This is just a handle or knob that cannot have the latch bolt locked. There will be no push button, keyhole, thumbturn, or anything that can stop the latch bolt from being retracted. These types of mechanisms are very often easy to disassemble (5) as they are not intended to provide privacy, let alone security. The credit card bypass (1) is also likely to work if the handle is just not working to actuate the latch bolt.
Privacy Lock – The most likely type of lock to be used to secure bedroom doors, privacy locks will not have an exterior keyway, but they will have a locking button. This button is either pushed or turned to engage/disengage. This type of lock can be relied upon to be vulnerable to a multitude of bypasses (1). It is even common for privacy locks to come packed with their own bypass tools, which are intended to be used in emergencies and lockout instances.
Keyed Door Knob – It is easy to tell a keyed door knob apart from other types of locks because it will turn to open the door (ie. a handle or knob) and have a keyway. By having a keyhole it is susceptible to picking (2) and bumping (3) as long as the issue is with the key and not with the lock itself.
Deadbolt – A deadbolt is a keyed lock, but it does not turn to retract the bolt. The bolt is not spring loaded so it needs the plug of the lock to be turned to lock and unlock the device. Deadbolts are unlikely to be phased by the simpler and more well-known bypass methods, but there are bypasses that could work if the deadbolt uses a thumbturn and not a double-sided cylinder. More than likely you will need to use methods of entry such as picking (2) and bumping (3). Depending on the complexity of the lock, destructive entry (4) might be the best choice.
Padlock – There is a deep and rich history of padlocks being used to secure interior rooms. This is done by installing a hasp on the door frame that connects to the door. There are many different types of padlocks so you might be able to bypass (1) the cheaper ones. But if you happen to have one of the best padlocks of all time that will not be an option. When the padlock has a keyway (ie. does not use a combination dial or set of wheels) picking (2) and bumping (3) can be attempted.
Choose The Best Entry Method
In order to find the best entry method, you should rely on the most likely category of issue that is causing you to say I am locked out of my bedroom. These methods might not solve your problem, but if you have the tools and skills required to use them, they are worth trying in order to troubleshoot the issue. If your knowledge of locks is extensive, you may know what is not going to work already, but this will not be possible for the person with an average skill set.
1. Bypass
There are bypasses for most lock types, and these can work to open the locked door to your room depending on the particulars of your issue. For privacy latches, you can insert a tool into the exterior hole of the handle/knob (if such an opening exists). For push button locks you just need to press something sturdy into the gap to release the push button. For turn buttons, a small flathead screwdriver is often best as you will need to catch the internal actuator and twist it.
Any type of spring-loaded latch bolt can be opened with the credit card technique. Some DIYers prefer a butter knife, but regardless of the name of this method, I would not recommend an active credit card, as the plastic can get chewed up (especially if you are inexperienced). Simply insert the thin material along the curved side of the latch in between the gap in the frame (you might have to work your way around the trim of the door) and press the latch toward the door. Then the door will open,
Certain thumbturn bypasses might also work if the deadbolt only provides the illusion of security. It will depend on the brand and style of lock, but you may be able to use a thin piece of metal to enter through the keyway and internally actuate the thumbturn on the other side of the door. In cases where there is a large enough gap at the bottom of the door, you might also be able to insert specialty tools (or strategically bent wires) that manipulate the interior thumbturn. Be sure to look up the bypass methods for your particular style of the lock to get the best specific information.
Applies to:
- I’m locked out of my room due to operator error
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my lock
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my key
- I’m locked out of my room but my room doesn’t have a lock
2. Picking
In order to pick an interior door lock, the lock must have a keyway. It is important to know that not everyone who is saying I am locked out of my bedroom will have taken up the hobby of lock picking. Without the proper lock picking tools, you will need to make improvised picks and tension tools. And depending on the type of the lock, this could get very complicated. For example, disk detainer locks and tubular keyways will need different considerations from a standard pin tumbler assembly. And in terms of making your own or being in possession of any type of such devices, you may be violating your local lock pick laws.
It is also important to know that though every lock can be picked there are some locks that have yet to be successfully picked. However, there are some locks that it is unlikely you will pick without a significant amount of practice and knowledge. You need to know the main lock picking techniques and how to use them effectively. Chances are opening a bedroom door lock will not be all that difficult, and raking with light tension should get you in. However, this can damage the lock if it is done too often or too harshly.
In order for this to work, the lock has to be functioning. But to that same degree, the lock has to be what is keeping the bedroom door locked. The issue must be due to a lack of a working key.
Applies to:
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my key
3. Bump Key
It is very rare that a standard bedroom lock will have been designed to prevent lock bumping. However, there must be an issue with your key in order to determine that the lock is not broken and that the lock uses a key. If the lockout cannot be solved with a key, then a bump key is not going to get you very far. To understand how lock bumping works, and the limitations of this method, you can read about expert techniques used to open doors and why bump keys don’t work on cars.
The biggest barrier to having this method working is access to the proper bump key. Bump keys are rather easy to get the hang of using, even for a locksmithing novice. However, you need to know what key to use. The key must have the right amount of grooves for the particular lock it is being used on. These grooves correspond the number of pins within a lock. If the key has too many grooves (or the improper profile) it will not fit in the keyway. If there are not enough grooves, the key will not interact with enough of the pins to open the lock.
Applies to:
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my key
4. Destructive Entry
Once you choose to undergo destructive entry, you are making a commitment to replace the mechanisms you destroy. And this method of entry will certainly destroy particular devices, depending on the particular type of destructive entry you are looking to use. The most common type of destructive entry is drilling a lock open. This is guaranteed to ruin your existing lock. You can choose your drill points depending on your preference (either drilling out the key pins or the set screws).
If you are not a professional, I would not recommend using any type of destructive entry, but I would also not recommend that this method if you are saying I am locked out of my bedroom, in circumstances where the lock is not the issue, or there has been general operator error. It is more likely that you will be able to get through those other predicaments with a much less drastic course of action. If you think that you need to drill the lock, cut the hinges or cut the latch/bolt, consult with a locksmith just to be sure you are not jumping to the most extreme option.
Applies to:
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my lock
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my key
5. Disassembly
Taking the lock apart is easier with cheaper and low-security door handles. What you are looking to do is remove the door handle in a nondestructive fashion. This is not possible with every type of lock, especially padlocks (but it might be possible to unscrew the hasp installed on the door and leave the padlock locked). For many privacy locks, there will be exposed screws or the screws will be obscured with a removable rose plate. The particular disassembly steps for each lock will be different, so it may behoove you to research your particular brand and model number or consult the installation guide for the lock through some other means.
Once the screws are removed, accessing the latch and bolt to retract either is very simple. A flat head screwdriver can almost always be used to actuate the part of the assembly that is securing the door. If there is nothing that can be done about the lock itself, you may need to disassemble the door itself. All of these processes can potentially damage the door, lock, or handles, but disassembly also requires reassembly, which is a common way to permanently harm your interior security. As a general rule, if you can take it apart, you can get it to open.
Applies to:
- I’m locked out of my room due to operator error
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my lock
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my key
- I’m locked out of my room but my room doesn’t have a lock
6. Alternate Entry Point
When you are shouting that I am locked out of my bedroom, it is very easy to forget that the door to any room is very rarely the only entry point. In the case of a specific room within a home, there might only be one way in other than the door. More likely than not, that opening is going to be a window. Window locks vary in quality, but often times they are left open entirely. Even if they are not, you might have more success with a bypass method on a window than a well-fortified door.
Be aware of the dangers of trying to enter through second story windows. If a dog door exists as an entry point, your size may make it difficult to enter this way. The last thing you want to do is get yourself stuck or hurt attempting to get back into your room. The point of this method of entry is to reassess if you are truly locked out. Make sure that you have considered all of your available options.
Applies to:
- I’m locked out of my room due to operator error
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my lock
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my key
- I’m locked out of my room but my room doesn’t have a lock
7. Call a Locksmith
There is one type of person that has their ear to the ground, listening for the distressed cry of a person screaming into the night “I am locked out of my bedroom!”, it is a locksmith. But there are certain things you need to know before you hire a locksmith. You have to look for the characteristics that make a good locksmith. There are also some facts about locksmiths you may find alarming. All of these things are important so that you get a locksmith who has the skills required to open your locked door in the quickest and most efficient manner.
There is no type of lockout that you can be experiencing that the proper locksmith cannot solve. They can work their way around complications as they arise or are discovered. The only thing you have to worry about is putting your faith in someone who is going to help you and look out for your best interests. Find the person that cares about your security, and they will get you access to your property, your room, and keep you safe during the whole process.
Applies to:
- I’m locked out of my room due to operator error
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my lock
- I’m locked out of my room because something is wrong with my key
- I’m locked out of my room but my room doesn’t have a lock
Conclusion
You might be thinking I am locked out of my room right now, but you won’t be for long. By knowing how you are locked out, what device is keeping your door shut, and the most commonly available options for getting back into a locked room, it is only a matter of time before your problem is solved. Never attempt one of these tasks without fully understanding them, replace anything that becomes damaged, and never hesitate to call for help.
The post I’m Locked Out of My Room! How Do I Get Back In? appeared first on United Locksmith.
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