So, at the moment I’m working in a little locksmith company for Vallejo area, CA. Sometimes I will write stories, articles about my job, about locksmith history, etc. Today I’d like to share history about Locksmith Services.
The roots of the locksmith profession can be traced back to ancient Egyptian times. During that period, the early locksmiths carved wooden locks that incorporated the tin tumbler principle. This lock prevented the movement of the door bar used in most homes then. The key used to open such a lock was also fashioned out of wood, in a shape that is similar to the toothbrush that you use today.
The medium used by locksmiths changed with the emergence of metallurgy. By the 18th century, locksmiths in Europe had been able to make locks and keys out of metal that proved to be more durable than their predecessors.
But technological advancements that led to the spread of mass-produced items did not favor the profession. Along with mass production came the influx of inexpensive locks into the market. People had limited use for the skills of a locksmith. Consequently, the services offered by professional locksmiths were consigned to repairing locks and replicating keys.
To date, a locksmith would likely be the owner of a small business that takes on jobs related to fixing door hardware. However, there is more to the profession other than helping you get into your house after you have locked yourself out again.
Security companies often hire locksmiths to help them design and create locks to prevent thefts or invasions. Local enforcement institutions may also require the services of these professionals as forensic locksmiths. For specialists in their field, they may even be hired as security consultants.
Truthfully, there is more to the profession than meets the eye. In addition to helping you get into your locked property, here are other locksmith services worth taking note of.
When you think of a locksmith, your first thoughts would be to hire one to open a locked door. But did you ever think of hiring a locksmith to install a window lock? An unlock window can be an unintentional invitation for intruders. Professional locksmiths advise homeowners to install a key lock on their windows that can only be operated from the inside. Quite often, the placement of such security devices on all accessible windows would also be an insurance requirement.
The services of a professional locksmith can also be of great use to new homeowners. More often than not, a house that has been on the market may have several key sets that are in the hands of different people. The previous homeowner, the real estate agent, neighbors, or even a cleaning company. For security purposes, it is best to have all the locks rekeyed to help keep out uninvited guests.
Modern locksmith companies have also stepped up their services with the ability to install and repair sophisticated security systems. This modernized lock system includes a variety of alarm features over and above the standard lock and key purpose. For instance its use extends to the detection of fire, smoke, as well as carbon monoxide. Once the alarm is set off, it will instantly alert the authorities of a possible threat in your household.
It can be worrisome to leave your home if you have to go on the road for business, or even for pleasure. But with the help of a professional locksmith, you can secure your home and have peace of mind while you are away. As part of their services, a locksmith can install a time controller in your home. This particular device can be set to turn on indoor as well as outdoor lights at specific hours during the day and night. This can help deter would-be intruders as they would think that the house is occupied.
Other than your house, your car is another asset of yours that would require the services of a locksmith. It has been known to happen that many people mistakenly leave their keys in the ignition and lock themselves out of their vehicles. In this instance, an auto locksmith service can help you get into your car again. Regardless of the make or model of your vehicle, a locksmith would be able to open the lock. Even cars with intricate and automated security systems can be serviced by today’s locksmiths. Their equipment can even duplicate car keys that are comparative with those from the dealer.
You can also rely on the assistance of a locksmith even during emergencies. Locksmiths are no longer bound by the typical business hours. Many of today’s professionals provide emergency services and on-site visits even at odd hours. If you suddenly find yourself locked out of your house at midnight or you have accidentally locked your keys inside the car just as the central locking security system goes haywire. A worst case scenario for wanting a visit from a locksmith in the middle of the night is to have your locks repaired after a burglary or a break-in. A locksmith can also upgrade the locks to prevent future incidents.
Even commercial businesses can benefit from the services of a professional locksmith. If you are a business owner, you can ask a locksmith to install a number of security systems to protect your premises. You can have a biometric system installed to scan the identity of your employees. This would help limit the chances of an interloper getting in and stealing your company’s secrets. Also, modern locksmith companies can also install a closed-circuit television network that would link to a central monitoring office.
If you are planning to hire a locksmith for any of the services mentioned, make sure to check their credentials before letting them into your home or office. The likelihood of getting a dishonest locksmith who will overcharge you or worst, may end up stealing from you is a risk that you would not want to welcome. Inquire with local authorities if the locksmith you want to hire is licensed and recognized by the state.
The locksmith profession has indeed come a long way from its humble beginnings with a wooden lock and key during ancient times. It is comforting to know that you can rely on the services of a locksmith for more than opening your locked door.
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