In today's world, keeping your home and belongings safe means paying attention to the security of your vehicle and garage. Your garage can be an entry point to your home, so let's look at some practical tips to make sure it stays safe:

1. Be Smart About Your Garage Remote

Never leave your garage remote inside your car, especially when you're in a parking lot or any other public place. If your car isn't locked, or if someone breaks into it, they could use the remote to open your garage and potentially gain access to your home. To avoid this risk, consider these options:

   
• Keychain Remote: Opt for a smaller keychain remote designed to attach to your keys. This way, you'll always have it with you when you leave your vehicle.
   
• Built-In Garage Opener: If your car has a built-in garage opener like HomeLink, that's a safer choice because it often won't work when the car is off. Still, check to be sure.
   
• Modern Tech: Embrace modern technology by using a smartphone app like MyQ to control your garage door.
   
• Secure Storage: For added security, consider keeping your garage remote in a locked glovebox, or preferably in a console safe.

Even when you're not parking in your driveway, it's crucial not to keep your garage remote in your car in public places. If someone breaks into your vehicle, they could find your address through registration or insurance documents and use the remote to open your garage.

2. Keep Important Documents Safe

Don't leave your insurance cards or registration papers in your car either. These documents can be vulnerable to misuse if they fall into the wrong hands. Store them in your wallet or purse so they're easily accessible when needed and to reduce the risk of potential misuse, including identity theft.

3. Beef Up Your Garage Door

To make your garage more secure, consider adding extra locks to your overhead garage door. These locks can stop someone from using tools like coat hangers to trip the release cord from the outside. You can learn more about this in our linked blog post.

4. Secure the Door to Your Home

Always lock the door that connects your garage to your home. Many people assume that the garage door itself is secure enough, but it's wise to have layers of security. Strengthen this door with larger strike plates, longer screws, good locks, and maybe a wrap-around plate. Some people even add a peephole so they can check the garage without opening the door. If you have a side door leading into the garage, it's a prime target for break-ins, so use similar measures to reinforce it. Since it's just in your garage and wouldn't affect the aesthetics of your home, even a stronger reinforcement such as a cross bar might be appropriate.

By adhering to these simple security measures, you can significantly diminish the likelihood of unexpected incidents and ensure the ongoing safety and security of your home.

Integrity Lock & Key

Integrity Lock & Key has been proudly serving the Glendale, AZ community since 2016. As a trusted local mobile locksmith company, our mission is to ensure the safety and security of your home. We offer a wide array of residential locksmith services, ranging from lock rekeying to the installation of new locks, and everything in between. We're committed to providing top of the line service to our valued clients. One thing that sets us apart is our expertise in fortifying door openings to deter common threats, such as forced entry attempts. We take a comprehensive approach by paying attention to all of the weak points, reinforcing the strike plates, hinges, and lock mounting areas. We will also recommend Grade 1 locks, such as Schlage, for added security. For dependable locksmith services that prioritize your safety, please contact us at 480-349-7104. Ensuring your peace of mind is our primary focus, and we are dedicated to helping you effectively secure your home.