February 14th also popularly known as Valentines Day is right around the corner. This is an important time for locksmiths and security professionals. Sometimes we have to consider security from a standpoint that the worst intruder can be one who is known to the victim. As we get closer to Valentines Day many lonely singles will be more likely to welcome strangers into their homes. In the weeks prior to Valentines Day, online dating sites, nightclubs, single bars and other similar venues will see a rise in business due to people looking to find their special someone. Additionally, delivery services such as the proverbial, "flower guy" or "candy man" are more likely to be anticipated. So what heartfelt role can a locksmith play in the Valentine season? I'm glad you asked. The weeks prior to Valentines Day it is a good time to offer free locksmith or security consultations. In addition to bringing in clients that need your full services it will help locate some quick business.
#Check Door and Window Frames.
Check to see that door and window frames are not accessible from the outside. Cracked frames & jambs should be repaired and loose or rusty door and window locks should be replaced. In the case where windows or patio doors are unprotected consider installing simple window locks as a good measure. At the same time, make sure there are ways to get out if a resident needs to escape a Valentine turned bad.
Install Peep Holes.
Make sure there are adequate peepholes. This will enable residents visibly inspect and to assure that the person knocking at the door is somebody who is welcome. If the resident looks through the peephole and sees somebody unwelcome they have the opportunity not to open the door. In the event the person on the other side of the door is violent, the peephole will add a "temporal barrier" giving the resident extra time to call the authorities for help.
Peepholes are also inexpensive and pointing out that a peephole is needed is usually an easy upsell for a locksmith. With very little effort a locksmith can point out and quickly install a whole block of peepholes. For a couple dollars plus the retail cost of the peephole kit the locksmith can generate a great deal of income.
Put Chain Locks on Doors.
Put chain locks on the door will allow a resident to crack the door open to ask questions of people on the other side of the door. A chain lock will allow a resident to question the delivery guy that shows up, that romantic interest that has suddenly returned, or any other questionable visitor without fully opening the door.
Like peepholes chain locks are inexpensive, an easy upsell, and for the most part require a driver drill and basic knowledge to install. A great quick sell for the locksmith.
Other Options.
Of course it stands to reason a good locksmith will do a thorough property examination to locate any security loop holes. Making appropriate determinations about what a clients security needs. In some case these will require major additions or fixes in others simple add-ons can make a difference.
Offering a free consultation when people are open minded to the need for security can help generate quick income for the locksmith as well as increase safety in the community. Valentines Season is just such a time when a security need is obvious. After all, everybody can imagine that no goodnick in a white jump suit and a hand full of flowers coming to do harm or that romantic interest who has returned with intentions of getting something more. As a security professional, your here to get in the way of those guys.
