How to choose a safe home, and how to keep it secure.
Home Is Where You Are Safe How to choose a safe home, and how to keep it secure. When house searching we consider many things, the number of rooms, and bathrooms, the size of the master bedroom, etc. Do we want a patio or no patio? Large yard or small yard? Stairs or no stairs? One tree or five trees? It’s easy to get caught up in a picturesque idea of what we long for in a home, but there are other crucial things to consider before purchasing the “perfect house”. How to choose a safe Home: Neighborhood inspection: Whether you’re a single workaholic, a mother of 1, a family of 4 or a family of 10, you will want to observe the neighborhood you are considering calling home. Here are a few ways you can observe the area. Introduce yourself to your potential neighbors. If you get weird vibes or rude responses, trust your gut. A peaceful and friendly neighborhood is good for your overall security. Friendly neighbors look after eachother. Weigh the worth, chances are you can find something better. Look around. Are the homes around yours well kept, or are they junk yards? Remember that the worth of your home isn’t dependent on your actions alone. What kind of businesses are around? Is there a mini market on your street? Pay attention to the attitudes of those circulating your area. Crime Rate: Do your research. Crime rates vary depending on location, so you’ll want to be sure that the crime rate is low. When researching, make sure you aren’t looking only at robbery or invasions. You’ll want to check the crime rate for violent crimes, and see what’s going on in the schools nearby. If possible, try not to rely on statistics alone. Ask those in the area how they feel about the safety of their neighborhood. If you hear several horror stories, it might be in your best interest to reconsider. How to keep your new home secure: Once you’ve surveyed the area, and feel good about moving into your new home, you’ll want to be sure that your home is as secure as it needs to be. Replace the locks: Make sure that your home has new locks, it’s always possible that the people before you made additional keys. You don’t want anyone else having access to your home. When replacing the locks consider the durability and reliability of your options. Depending on the needs of your household, keyless locks may be a benefit to you, or maybe all you need are deadbolts. Either way, be sure your locks are chosen well. If you have questions about lock replacement, feel free to give on of our Locksmiths a call! Install a security system: Security systems are nearly necessary in the world these days. It seems that alarms are one of the few things that still deter thieves and other criminals. Stay safe by installing an alarm in your home. Consider security cameras/ sensor lights: Just the appearance of security cameras alone will lower your chances of burglary. If you can’t afford the real deal, spend 10 or 20 dollars on a fake set and place them around your home. Sensor lights are another sure way to scare off a burglar. They don’t want to be caught, so expose them with light, and you’ll be impressed at how fast they flee. These are only a few ways you can secure your home. If you are interested in learning more, visit some of our other posts on home security, or give one of our Locksmiths a call!
How do I know a scam artist from a professional locksmith?
How to identify a scammer vs. the real deal without your pocketbook. As a professional and trusted locksmith, we believe it’s important to help our community in every way that we can. Part of helping our community is by communicating. There are dangers in the “locksmithing” world that should be avoided. There are countless scammers in the US waiting for an opportunity to make a quick buck. The problem with this is that the people who assist with your locksmithing needs, if they aren’t licensed and certified, then they don’t have proper training. It also means that your property is not protected under any kind of law. It’s crucial that you know how to tell the difference between a professional locksmith, and scammer. What to look for: Do research. With modern day technology it’s easy to gather information quickly. Read online reviews, check for reports and referrals. When you call, ask for a quote. If they can’t give you an exact price, in most cases they are not legit. Check for affiliations. Find out if they are registered with ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America. This is recommended. Check their certification. A real locksmith will proudly give this information. If they get defensive, or question your motive, you should be questioning theirs. Pay attention to the small details. Did they arrive in a company vehicle? This is more important than you would think. If they took the time, and paid the money for printed vehicles, they are likely licensed. Is the locksmith in uniform? They should be. How does the scamming work? In many cases, the locksmith scams participate in a mass industry, usually operated from another country. When you search google for a local locksmith, several numbers and websites will pop up. You might notice good reviews, but be aware that reviews are not always legit. These scammers will pay people to create fake reviews. When you call, it will forward to a dispatcher, and they’ll say something along the lines of “Locksmith” or “Service”, but will leave out the name of the business you are trying to reach. When you ask for a quote, they will reply with a low price and make sure it’s open for change. They trap people with the low price, but when they show up to do the job, they will do it and up the price based on “the difficulty of the job.” These kinds of scams are becoming more popular and are circulating all over the internet. It’s important to be aware. Utilizing false locksmithing services will breed disaster. Why isn’t Google doing anything about the problem? Out of frustration, it’s easy to point the finger. Google is trying to counteract the problem, and they have many security measures actively working in order to tear at the roots of the issue. It’s more complex than it seems. It’s best to be educated, and aware of the possibilities so that you don’t fall victim to the scamming while it’s still happening. In a locksmith emergency, give us a call.
How do I stay safe and avoid theft on the PCT trail?
First of all, most individuals hiking the PCT are there for the experience and have no intention of harming anyone or stealing. That being said, it still is not risk-free. In the current society we live in there are circulating crimes everywhere, even in the great outdoors. When you are making such a long journey you can’t carry a locked safe or buy heavy duty padlocks. Keeping the weight off of your backpack will suddenly become your highest concern. I’m going to start by saying you shouldn’t be carrying anything that needs a lockbox or padlock, rather the key is surviving with the basics. If you don’t carry anything exciting, you are less likely to become a target. Walking the PCT trail differs in concern compared to city living. What makes you a target on the PCT? Traveling alone Traveling with a bike Overly expensive gear Valuables such as jewelry, watches, or fancy cameras The PCT trail may be safer than most places, but it does not go without crime. In the wilderness, there will be times you will have no cell service. You will have no security system for your tent. There are no deadbolt locks. Firearms are discouraged on the trail and can cause more issues than keeping them locked away at home. These facts may become alarming as you read them over in one paragraph, but you are not without hope of protecting yourself on the trails. Leave valuables at home, and keep to the basics. Traveling on foot, if you want to keep your bike, is smart. Also, self awareness will save your life. Here’s what I mean when I say self-awareness. Let someone know your travel plans. Stop at the various campsites that are spread out over the course of the trail. Give approximate timing. When should your loved ones expect to hear from you? Make calls when you are able to. Carry a trail map and be sure you know how to read it. Appearing lost could make you a target. It’s better to know your own way then it is to trust a stranger to lead you in the right direction. Most travelers are harmless but don’t take the risk. Do research BEFORE your trip. Make sure you are aware of the potential dangers in traveling the PCT. Mentally prepare yourself for the kinds of encounters you could experience. Take self-defense classes before you depart on your journey. Even if you carry a weapon, it’s possible you could be taken off guard. In the chance that someone sneaks up on you, it will be good for you to know how to properly get yourself out of that situation, even if it’s just to give yourself enough time to find your weapon, i.e: Pepper Spray, knife, other heavy or sharp objects. Get First Aid training. If you are injured you will need to tend to your injury without disabling yourself (when possible). A weak or injured person is a higher target than a healthy person who could fight back when attacked. Dead set on going alone? Take a dog. It is not recommended to travel the PCT on your own. You should go with one or more people. It is not safe to make the trip on your own. Still, some will choose to journey by themselves, and to them I say. GET A DOG. This will be your best form of security, above anything else. Stay on the trails, and register at all trailheads. YES, even when it’s dark and you are exhausted. This cannot be strained enough. It is necessary that park officers/ rangers are aware that you have been on the trails. In the case that you or another person comes up missing, the chances of finding a lost person are significantly higher when registered to the trails. Avoid hitchhiking or accepting rides from strangers. For obvious reasons, this is not safe. Don’t camp near the trailheads or roads. In the heart of the trail you will experience the company of other hikers, but near roads and trailheads, you are no longer safe from the general public. Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the details. Look around for fire smoke, there could be someone close by. While this could be a good sign in some cases, that is not always true. Be prepared, and trust your gut. Before you set up camp for the night look around. If you feel uneasy keep walking until the feeling eases. It is always better to be safe than sorry, even when you just want to sleep. And if you ever need a locksmith give us a call!
Indoor and outdoor security cameras – Why should I hide my cameras?
Having security cameras in plain sight is a good way to ward off burglars, however, in some instances, it is actually better to have them hidden. It could be that you have babysitters in your home, or other individuals frequenting your home regularly. It could also be that you live in a scary neighborhood and you’re concerned about intruders with a motive beyond theft. In any case, there are wrong ways and right ways to hide your cameras, but before getting into that let’s talk about the places you should NOT hide your cameras. The bathroom. DO NOT hide your cameras in the bathroom. Why? Because it’s weird, and quite frankly it’s unnecessary. Is it legal to hide cameras inside my home? This is a great question, and the answer is generally yes. Depending on the area you live, it’s always best to check the laws concerning the subject. It is most commonly legal to hide cameras inside of your home. Don’t hide cameras in places where people would expect privacy though. I don’t think you need help understanding what I mean by that. Where should I hide my cameras? Indoor Cameras: Inside, pointing out the window. Living room, kitchen, family room. Door ways. Outdoor Cameras: Birdhouses are a great place to hide outdoor cameras. When people see a birdhouse they aren’t usually thinking to check for a camera. In or around trees/ bushes. And if you need security consultation, give our locksmiths a call.
Securing Firearms: Who Should Not Be Given Access and How To Prevent Them From Gaining Access
The extremity of firearm security should not be taken lightly. With ownership of a gun comes great responsibility. Many people don’t understand the amount of responsibility for them when they make the purchase. They think “I’ll keep it locked up during the day, and make sure I have it hidden when kids are in the house.” Those who have had their guns stolen brush it off saying “I’ll secure it better next time.” They write it off and think they can buy a better box for their next one. I’d like to challenge that perspective, because these kinds of mindsets are why proper precautions aren’t taken to begin with. Too many individuals do not put enough thought into security before making the decision to become a gun owner. If you own a gun you must know every reason why securing your gun properly is important. Ponder this idea; even if the person who steals your gun only intends to make a pretty penny, there is cycle that has won a spin as soon as it makes the market. If your gun is sold, eventually it could make it into the hands of someone whose intentions are less than humane. Keep in mind as well that the gun is registered to you. You don’t want your purchase to be the reason a neighbor was shot or a kid took their life. The burden in that sentence is heavy because it needs to be. Who should not have access? Children, first and foremost. A child is not able to understand the danger of a weapon and should have no access to a firearm. I understand taking your children out to learn gun safety and how to shoot a gun (under supervision). Under no condition though should a child be trusted to handle a gun in any other circumstance. There are too many accidents that happen through the curiosity of a child. Teens and young adults should not have access either. There are far too many hormones and emotions running through that age group, and not enough stability to give their lives into their own hands. There are suicides every year because parents “trusted” their child enough to keep their firearms unsecured. Mentally ill people should also be without access. Anyone who is not able to understand gun safety and all that it means should not be given a chance with your guns. Your firearms should stay out of sight and locked up where access is extremely hard to obtain. How do I secure my gun properly? Keeping your firearms locked up is the first step. Some tend to think a small or medium size lock box is enough. It’s not. Here’s why: Lockboxes are not too heavy to carry, so someone can remove it from your home and take the time necessary to open it. They give a false presentation of security, but are more for looks than anything else. Most of them are easy to break into with a hammer or screwdriver. Cheap boxes are usually made from a hard plastic, which does virtually nothing when greeted by a hammer or heavy rock. The two most important things to consider when purchasing a gun safe: First, your safe should have either a combination lock or a smart lock. Do not purchase a safe that is mainly accessed using a key. A safe that can alternatively be accessed with a key is fine, as long as the key is left with someone you trust and is not inside your home (at least not where it can be found). Second, your safe should be secured to something sturdy. Don’t have it secured to wooden panels, boards or plywood flooring. If you are unsure how to do this, have a professional come to your house and do it for you. This will keep you safe from being removed. “If you were able to get your safe inside the house on your own, someone else can get it out. Make sure it can’t be picked up or wheeled out.” -Locksmith Plus, Inc. Additional concerns to address: Do not keep a gun on by your bedside. Not only have people shot themselves while they were dreaming, but they’ve also shot others when being jolted awake. Also, if someone breaks into your home and they see your gun first, they will have an upper hand they never needed. Keep your guns out of sight. Firearm safes should not be hard to access by those who have the ability to unlock them. Safes are not meant to be a hindrance in keeping individuals and families secure from harm. A fingerprint or hand detection safe is a great option if timing is a concern for you. Some safes have key code access which is another effective option. There are plenty of choices out there that will provide simple access, and stern security at the same time. Do the research and find the safe that is best for your needs. There are two different types of safes to keep in mind when making a purchase. First, is a safe that is for long storage, and the second is for short storage. If you need ready access to your gun or guns, make sure you by a short term storage safe. If you ever need firearm security consultation, give one of our professional locksmiths a call.
Securing Firearms in a Vehicle – What makes it so important and what can be done?
“You want your handgun to be secure, readily available, out of sight and out of mind.” – Locksmith Plus Inc. Ways to secure your handgun inside of your vehicle: The most efficient way to secure your handgun is by keeping it inside of a locked box. This can be a locked safe or a locked bag (depending on your personal preference). There are many options available through a simple google search. Make sure you are aware of the laws in your state, and be attentive to those laws. How can I keep my gun readily accessible? Many car-safe gun cases are locked using a key. For obvious reasons, this is the most secure option. However, it is not the most convenient. Those who carry a licensed gun on them are usually carrying it in case of an emergency. We all know that emergencies are high tension and high-stress situations. If you’ve read any of the other blogs I’ve written, you will remember the severity of shaping security around stressful possibilities. I wrote a blog called_ , and it does a great job at reminding people (including myself) of the tragedies that unfold when we are inconsiderate of danger. If you are carrying a weapon, you want to make sure it is quickly available to you. Ditch the safe that requires a key, and go with a key code lock or a hand detection lock instead. Where can I put a gun in my vehicle that will keep it out of sight, but still easily accessible? The answer to that question varies depending on the type and size of your vehicle. It would be best for you to examine your own vehicle and discern the best places for your car. Your gun should be out of sight to passengers in the car, and should not be visible if pulled over by a police officer. Examples of places to keep firearms inside of vehicles: For quick access: Under the driver’s seat. In the glove box (only while driving or occupying the vehicle) Stored in or underneath the dashboard. For long term storage (quick access not needed): The trunk of your vehicle. In a lock box that’s been installed somewhere secure in your car. Want consultation on a custom storage compartment for your car? Give our locksmiths a call.
Securing Your Greenhouse: Tips and Tools Used to Secure Yourself and Your Property
For some, a greenhouse could mean food for the winter, or maybe it is just part of the business. For others, it is a treasured hobby. No matter the reason, it is an expensive hobby. It’s easy to get caught up trimming, planting and preparing during the heat of the day, and too many times the security of property is overlooked. There is more to securing a greenhouse than simply locking it up behind you at the end of the day. What about your tools? Your pots? Your machinery? How well are these items secured upon your departure? It would be nice to assume it wouldn’t happen to you, but the chances are higher than you would think. Plant theft is an increasing issue worldwide. Greenhouses have become a more prized item of theft in the recent years, and as a local locksmith concerned for your overall security it is our duty and privilege to provide you with tools in preventing this kind of crime. Anchor your greenhouse – Make sure that the anchor pulls enough weight, that it’s made from sturdy and trusted materials. Also, make sure it is driven far enough into the ground. A concrete foundation is highly recommended. Be careful what is planted around your greenhouse – If there are tall trees or wide bushes planted around it, you will provide potential thieves a covering. If a thief thinks they can get away with your things easily you will become a larger target. Keep your greenhouse visible. Plant holly bushes or rose bushes – No one (not even a thief) will want to get into a fight with thorns. This is a natural deterrent, and it works. Secure your containers / tool boxes – Use land anchors, i.e: a heavy rock, or a tree. Chain your bins – If your bins are chained down they cannot be used as stepping stools. Don’t give a thief a hand up. Lay gravel – In most cases thieves come with vehicles. If you lay gravel out in your driveway you will hear them coming. They are also less likely to take the chance, assuming you might be home. Mark your belongings – This is a way to prevent your items from being sold. If your name and information is on your possessions, someone will have a much harder time selling your items. They may move on from your house altogether. You can use a sharpy, but professional thieves may try to write over your address with their own. An effective way to prevent this is by using a chemical called SmartWater. This is a clear liquid that is applied to your property. If these items are sold, and any reminisce of the SmartWater is found, they will be able to match the chemical and return the property to its rightful owner. In some high-risk areas police hand this chemical out for free. And if you ever need advice from one of our locksmiths, don’t hesitate to give us a call!
Standing Against Human Trafficking
Locksmith Plus Inc, is also a security company. Therefore, we took on a huge concern to us. This is a guide to help protect you are your loved ones against the awful realities of human trafficking. __________________________________________________________________________ Human trafficking is horrific, and unfortunately, it’s an increasing concern all around the world. As a locksmithing business we care immensely about the safety of the public, and hope to make even a small positive impact, lowering the number of offenses. Statistics show that there are at least 20.9 million cases of human trafficking globally, and the number is increasing rapidly. Human trafficking is the fastest growing violent crime worldwide. This blog post is intended to educate readers, prepare readers in protecting themselves, and shed light on the present darkness. When light clashes with darkness, change approaches. What is Human Trafficking, and why does it happen? “Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery — a multibillion-dollar criminal industry that denies freedom to 20.9 million people around the world. And no matter where you live, chances are it’s happening nearby. From the girl forced into prostitution at a truck stop, to the man discovered in a restaurant kitchen, stripped of his passport and held against his will. All trafficking victims share one essential experience: the loss of freedom.” – Polaris, Freedom Happens Now What makes someone a target? Statistics show that 55% of victims are women, and 26% are children. This makes women and children targets simply because of their gender and age. Appearing vulnerable (being alone) Homeless individuals People in need of resources How do you know when you’ve been targeted? There is no sure way to know when someone has been targeted for human trafficking, but there are signs to look for. Here are some red-flags: Abductors will usually approach their victim while they are alone. While out with a victim, the abductor will always use cash when paying, and will likely ask to use the victim’s credit card. They do this to avoid tracking. The forcing of drug or alcohol abuse. An abductor will typically say they are from another state or country. They may invite their victim to visit them in “their country.” When googling an abductors name and place of residence you will find their exact description, but the picture will be of someone else. Solicitation and force of unwanted sexual advances. When a victim mentions family and friends nearby the abductor may seem irritated or put off by it. When you notice these signs how do you protect yourself? If you notice these signs, report them to police, family and friends. Do not reveal personal information. Get to a safe place as quickly as possible. Learn self defense Be aware of your surroundings. Carry pepper spray. If in conversation with the person of concern, talk about your support of firearms with confidence. If on a date do not leave the table until the night is over. You don’t want to leave the table giving them a chance to slip something into your drink. They will have inconsistencies in their stories (pay attention) Allow at least 3 friends or relatives to track your cell device. If you are attacked make a scene, scream, yell fire, use a whistle or pepper spray (if you have it), and fight against them with everything you have. How do you know if someone around you is a victim of human trafficking? There are many red flags to look for when attempting to identify a trafficking victim. Most of them will appear underfed, pale faced (due to lack of vitamins), there may be signs of physical abuse, such as bruising, cuts, broken limbs etc… They may avoid eye contact and speak as though they are following a script. Many times they will have no identification on them, and will trip on their words when questioned about their name, place of residence, or other personal information. They may work extremely long hours, and yet lack personal hygiene or possessions. It’s common for human trafficked victims to refuse going anywhere alone. Many victims are not allowed to go anywhere alone. It could be portrayed that they don’t want to be away from their abductor, but be aware that even those who are “in a relationship and uninterested in going anywhere without their partner ” may in fact be acting a part out of fear. If you notice these signs around you or someone you know, report your concern. Sex trafficking needs to be stopped, and it doesn’t start and end with awareness. The power of voice will change our world for the better. Speak up, and provide resources to potential victims (when able to do so safely). Make sure you are aware of what is going on around you, and take the necessary steps in protecting yourself and those you love. National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1 (888) 373-7888 Website address: traffickingresourcecenter.org If you have any additional questions or would like to discuss security options, give one of our Locksmiths a call!
The Irrational Reality of Locksmithing in Portland Oregon
Our newest locksmith Aaron just moved from California to Portland to find out just how weird people here are… ___________________________________________________________ How different is Portland, really? It’s not just a bumper sticker… It’s not just a banner, Or a rumor, Or written everywhere just for humor. Portland IS weird. Portland posses great attributes, most of which are a bit wacky or hard to understand. Portland is its own greatest muse; It’s a multi personalities culture that’s been fostered and strengthened into great strangeness. Locksmiths in the area get the brunt end of Portland weirdness, and it’s not because of the hip places to stay, or because of the intriguing choice of music, or because of the summer specials offered on weed. Locksmiths experience the weirdness of Portland through the weirdness of its people. People in Portland are weird, yo. Don’t believe it? Keep reading. Personal Memoirs that keep Portland weird: “I’m sorry, but we can’t accept rocks instead of money, ma’am.” – Aaron Locksmith Plus inc, locksmith. “This is better than money,” she says. The confused locksmith looks down at the ladies’ carefully painted rocks that read “Jesus” across the top of them. He waits a moment, and replies hesitantly, attempting to explain that rocks cannot be accepted as payment for their services. “Your hand painted rocks are lovely, and I’m sorry, but we can’t accept rocks instead of money, ma’am.” Finally, after further persuasion, the lady made a real payment, and the locksmith walked away scratching his head. This is a true story from the life of a Locksmith at Locksmith Plus Inc, Portland OR. __________________________________________________________________________ “I only have 20 dollars for payment right now, but I just bought steaks at the store, and I’d be happy to pay with those as well.” – Anonymous LPI customer The humored locksmith tells his story… “This lady called because she locked herself out of her car, and when I got there she explained her situation, asking for grace and promising to pay the rest at a later time. She offered to give her number, but when she offered her steaks as well, I couldn’t help but think about how lovely a steak dinner would be! (insert sarcasm here). I took the steaks and 20 dollars, unlocked her car, and then sent her on her way. There was no use in getting a phone number, this is just how it goes here in Portland. The steaks were pretty good though!” – Locksmith Plus Inc, locksmith __________________________________________________________________________ “Did you pick up your RV early sir? I wasn’t finished with impressing your key.” – Locksmith Plus Inc, locksmith Two hours later! In two hours a 30 foot RV was stolen. Welcome to Portland. The locksmith shares his story… “I got a call from a man who needed a new key for his RV. I came by to pick up his lock, then headed back to the shop for a couple of hours. When I got back, his RV was gone. I was confused so I called the man and asked him if he moved his RV. Our conversation went something like this… He replied saying, “No I didn’t move it.” I responded, “It’s not here sir.” He came back to his house to meet with me, and as he was walking down the street he realized that someone had taken his RV in the short time I was making a key for it. He was ticked but didn’t seem surprised. Portland is a rare… gem. I felt bad for the guy so I didn’t charge him for the service. Some people in Portland are so unaware, but then so aware at the same time. Someone had to be watching and waiting the entire time I was removing the lock.” -Locksmith Plus Inc, locksmith __________________________________________________________________________ “How green would you like your tip, sir?” “Yup, even people at weed dispensaries in Portland need locksmithing services, and they always tip very well.” At the end of the day, all we have to say is we love our city!
Top 5 places to NEVER hide your house keys
Avoid vulnerability, and learn where to keep your keys __________________________________________________________________________ I don’t know about you, but I grew up hiding things. There is something gratifying about hiding something where you think no one else will find it. As an adult, I watch the little ones with anticipation for the day they realize they possess this great power. Not because I’ll lose my belongings – since I’m sure they’ll start with my phone or my keys – but because I will have the opportunity to teach them where the best spots truly are! There are some rather clever places to hide things, especially keys, and there are several places you should never hide them, which draws us to the point of today’s message: Where NOT to hide your keys. Fake Rocks: Yes, you read that right. Home-owners LOVE this idea at first glance, but have you ever seen one of these things? Some will argue that these fake rocks are hard to spot. I am inclined to disagree. They actually stand out (especially if they’ve been googled) which makes them completely insecure. Don’t hide your keys under real rocks either. You are fooling yourself if you think a thief won’t look there because they will. Empty pots or plants: This method has been used too many times! Hiding keys underneath or inside of a flower pot are far too common, and a thief will search there first. Don’t leave your keys in such a vulnerable place. Ultimately the point of hiding a key is to keep someone from breaking into your home, so don’t make it easy on them. Doormats: Don’t do it. Don’t even entertain the idea. Not only is this method (like the flower pots) way overused, but it’s also way too easy. If someone sees a person walk up to your home confidently, lift the mat, grab the key, and then unlock the door, they will likely assume that the person was given access. This will keep witnesses from paying any attention or reporting any suspicious behavior. Door Frames: It’s amazing the number of people who believe this tactic actually works. I would be more inclined to say that these people haven’t yet been visited by a burglar. Unless your neighborhood burglar is extremely short, I would not expect this method to work out well for your security. It’s too obvious, and it provides no kind of protection. Your wallet: If they have your wallet, they likely have personal information. I don’t know about you, but I keep my ID in my wallet. If I kept my key with my ID and lost them both, whoever has my wallet has my address. Hopefully, they are really nice people! You see my point? Don’t be a thief’s dream come true. And if you ever need a locksmith in the Eugene Oregon area give us a call!