Locks

Doorknob locks offer no security. They can easily be forced open. Chains don't provide security either. They are only good for privacy. All doors leading into the house should have a deadbolt lock. Install single cylinder deadbolt locks on all exterior doors. Bolts should have a minimum bolt length of 1 inch. Strike plates should have screws that are at least 3 inches long. On all exterior double doors, install flush bolts at the top and bottom of the inactive door. These should be made of steel and have a minimum bolt length of 1 inch. Install deadbolt locks on all outside sliding glass patio doors. You should also use a back up locking device such as a wooden stick that is placed in the lower track to prevent the door from opening. Better security can be obtained from thumbscrew-type locks that are mounted on both the top and bottom tracks. Install good locks on all doors that lead outside through garages or storage areas. Re-key or change all locks when moving into a new home. Install good locks on gates, garages, sheds, etc. If you use a padlock, you should use one that has to be opened with a key and cannot be opened by bolt cutters or pry bars. The shackles should be made of hardened steel and be at least 9/32 inch thick. It is even better to use a "shielded" padlock that is designed to protect against bolt cutters. Combination locks should not be used because they offer very poor security. Use a multi-frequency opener on electrically-operated garage doors, and make sure that the bottom cannot be lifted up to allow a burglar to crawl under the door. Use hardened steel hinges, hasps, and padlocks on hand-lifted garage doors. Install cane bolts or sliding hasps on the inside of garage doors to provide additional security. Go to a locksmith or hardware store for advice on locks.