Key Fob not Working? Here’s What You Can Do

Key fobs are convenient to many car owners, but they may eventually stop working from time to time.

Whether it’s because the battery has gone out or because there may be other minor problems with the remote that is preventing it from unlocking or locking your vehicle.

What are some things you should be looking out for when you come across a key fob not working?

Check that the remote is actually bad by using a back up remote
Replace the key fob battery if needed
Take the key fob apart and check for any broken contacts or misaligned buttons
Try reprogramming the remote yourself or have a professional do it for you
Replace the remote if needed
How do you know your Car Key Remote (Fob) is actually not working?

After using your backup remote, if it unlocks and locks perfectly fine, then you do not need to replace or trouble shoot your fob. However, if it doesn’t work, it can be one of two things: either the backup remote is bad, or there may be mechanical problems with your fob. Lastly, you want to check that your physical key works and is able to manually open your locks.

What if my car is a Push Button Ignition?

Some of today’s cars operate when the key fob is close by. Many vehicles usually have a physical key for locking and unlocking the doors, but it may be hidden. The fob will often have a hidden key inside. If for whatever reason you do not have a physical key, you can check the fob for a release button or a switch.

Other issues car owners will run into is that most cars will not have any visible place to insert a key. Many cars still have a key hole, but it can be hidden behind the trim of the door handle.

With the Key Fob Not Working, the best advice is to always make sure to check the battery and the buttons on the device. If changing the battery does not help and the buttons seem fine, your other option is to have it checked out by a professional. Most problems can be internal, and the device has to be picked apart to check if the components are functioning properly.

Do I need to reprogram my Key Fob?

Yes. In order to be able to unlock and lock a vehicle, the Key Fob must be programmed and synced. This way it has full functionality. However, in order for a car key remote to work, it has to be effectively paired with the receiver unit in your car. This will prevent anyone from walking up to your car and being able to use their fob to unlock your car. A professional locksmith will be able to reprogram your key fob quickly for a fraction of the price that a dealer would charge you.

What if I have an after-market security system?

If the security system includes remote controlled door locks in addition to an alarm, you will have to check for any special reprogramming procedures associated with the system you bought.

Call an Automotive Locksmith

Though it may not be your first choice, calling an automotive locksmith when your key fob is not working is a smart idea. Automotive Locksmiths are trained to handle emergency situations with key fobs which help you save time and money. Is your key fob not working? Don’t cancel your appointment, give BAYSIDE LOCKSMITH & SECURITY a call today. (920) 499-9900

Thanks,

Todd Theroux

What is Smart Lock?
A smart lock is an advanced lock designed with a combination of wireless technologies that are integrated with an authorized devise to lock and unlock the door. The wireless devices include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and standard messaging protocols like SMS and e-mail, which helps it to accomplish diverse functions and also gives the homeowner exclusive control over the security of the property.

The smart lock comes with a cryptographic key (or an app) that can be installed in your mobile phones or other electronic devices and SSL communication to help open the lock and also give authorization to other individuals.

You can take advantage of this new technology to enhance the security of your home or office by having a professional from Bayside Locksmith & Security who will efficiently install the smart lock.

So without further ado, let’s see how installing a smart lock could heighten your sense of control and make your life easier.

It provides advanced security for your home

The good news is that smart locks can be installed on mechanical locks like your deadbolt to fortify your security. With the installation of smart locks in your home, you will have rest of mind because no one will swipe the keys from underneath your doormat. Intruders will no longer compromise the security of your home, and you’d forget about making key copies or having a spare.

Everyone in your home will feel more secure when a smart lock is installed. It can get connected with an Apple Home Kit devise to be unlocked via voice assistance.

Enjoy customized convenience

Convenience should be the keyword when describing smart locks. Smart locks are specifically designed to add convenience to the way you gain access to your home and lock your doors.

It comes with lots of feature sets; imagine opening the door by just waving your smartphone in front of the lock or just sending an encrypted SMS for your door to open. It is understandable how busy your schedule might be, but interestingly, you will be alerted when you leave the door unlocked!

Not to mention the amazing convenience of controlling your locks while holidaying at the Bahamas because you connected it to your Wi-Fi network. What more? With Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Homekit, you can talk to your locks to open as you get closer to it.

Manage access to guests

You mustn’t be at home for the dog walker, cleaner, or gardeners to do their job since you can grant access to a third party using a virtual key. With the locks accompanying app or standard massaging protocols, you can give access to your friends and family that will like to pop in and spend some time in your home while you’re away.

It is designed to suit diverse security needs

There are designs that could suit your quintessential lifestyle as well as models that could masquerade as regular locks. More so, don’t think smart locks are so expensive because there are models that are affordable and even look like a standard dumb deadbolt, but they come with amazing features.

If you want the installation of smart locks in your home or office, you can get in contact with us. Be assured that with the advanced services of Bayside Locksmith & Security, the installation of smart locks in your home with be swift and as easy as ordering a pizza!

Thank You

Todd Theroux

BENEFITS OF A MOBILE LOCKSMITH

Ever gotten locked out of your car at the grocery store or while you were out on your lunch break? Forgotten your house keys at a friend’s place, but didn’t realize until you were standing in front of your house? These occurrences and more always seem to happen at the most inopportune time, giving you even more stress on your already-busy day. That’s where a master mobile locksmith can come in handy. In today’s blog, we will go over the top benefits you’ll get when you hire a mobile locksmith for your home or business.

Service Anywhere
Whether your home, car, or company is on the outskirts of town or in the heart of the city, our mobile locksmiths will be able to help you anywhere in the Fox City area. Because our locksmiths have everything they need in order to help you in our conveniently marked Bayside Locksmith & Security van, you’ll get the best service possible, no matter where you are. At your home, on-site at your company’s property, or anywhere your car may be stranded, our mobile locksmiths can meet you anywhere in the Fox Cities area in order to help you.

Full Service

Just because our locksmiths can meet you anywhere, it doesn’t mean we sacrifice service for convenience. As we said before, our locksmiths carry everything they need in order to accomplish any locksmith job you need. However, BAYSIDE LOCKSMITH & SECURITY is much more than just your average emergency locksmith. We offer several other professional locksmith services designed to make your life even easier. Our locksmiths can install new locks on all the Fox Cities area homes and businesses, as well as offer some of the best lock repair services around. We can make master keys for homes and companies, making your property even more secure than it already was.
Bayside Locksmith & Security services are second to none. If your keys break, our expert locksmiths can remove your keys without causing further damage to your vehicle. We can also create duplicates of your keys, key fobs, remotes, and more. Should your fob or remote stop working, our locksmiths can help fix and reprogram it so you don’t have to buy a new one. We can also help with motorcycles and boats as well.

Expert Services
Unlike other locksmiths, BAYSIDE LOCKSMITHS are highly trained. Our locksmiths are master locksmiths! BAYSIDE LOCKSMITH & SECURITY has years of experience working with all kinds of locks and will be able to offer expert advice for even better security for your home, business, or vehicle. No matter what kind of locksmith service you need, our master locksmiths will be able to help.
If you’re looking for the best mobile locksmith services in Green Bay, then the experts at BAYSIDE LOCKSMITH & SECURITY are perfect for you.

Thank You
Todd Theroux

Are you considering traveling for vacation in the warmer months? You’re not alone. In 2019, 4 in 10 Americans said they would take a summer vacation, according to AAA.
All that travel sounds great, until you remember that your home is more vulnerable to attack while you’re away. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, summer has the highest rates of household crimes including burglary.
With longer daylight hours, warmer temperatures, and more residents spending time away from their homes, the mid-season is prime time for crime. So, how do you keep your home safe and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re protected from break-ins? Here are a few key steps that can help.
1.   AMP UP SECURITY WITH IMPROVED LOCKS
One of the simplest ways to keep your home safe, regardless of season, is to invest in high-quality locks. Older homes and older locks can suffer from wear and tear. Rust, squeaky knobs, and worn-out keys can lead to vulnerabilities in the mechanisms that help keep your home entries protected.
Rather than opting for a lower-quality lock replacement at your local hardware store, consider hiring a professional locksmith to assess your lock situation. A trained professional can examine your locks and make recommendations that fit your needs and your budget.
2.   DON’T FORGET ABOUT YOUR GARAGE DOORS AND WINDOWS
According to FBI data, 95% of all home invasions require forceful entry – to windows, doors, and locks. Often, homeowners focus their investments in the main entry points of their home: the front and back door. But there are many ways for an intentional burglar to gain entry to your home.
Before you leave for your vacation, be sure that your windows are closed tightly and locked shut. If your garage functionality allows, a garage door lock can help prevent a burglar from manually breaking in. Don’t forget about the door into your home from the garage, either. This can be a prime entry point.
3.   CONSIDER USING A CAMERA SYSTEM
When you’re away from home, you want to remain feeling in control of your space. Installing a camera system in and out of your home can help you feel more confident and secure. You may be able to find an affordable DIY option at a hardware store. You can also consider hiring a professional to install a system.
4.   INSTALL MOTION LIGHTS OUTDOORS
When burglars want to use the cover of night to commit their deeds while residents are away, simple motion-detecting lights can work wonders to keep them at bay. These lights can be installed around your home to turn on when motion is detected. This is one small step that can make a big impact on the safety of your home while you’re traveling on vacation.
5.   PROTECT YOUR YARD FROM ENTRY
Your backyard can prove to be a prime “safe zone” for a potential burglar. Under the protective cover of trees or patios, they have more opportunity to make their way inside without being noticed. Take precautions to keep your backyard safe from unwanted trespassers. This can mean adding locks to fences, installing cameras or motion lighting systems, or some combination of these.
6.   AMP UP SECURITY AROUND YOUR FRONT DOOR
Did you know that 34% of burglaries happen through the front door? Take measures to protect every area of your home from intruders, but pay special attention to your front door. You may choose to combine motion-detecting lights with a camera system and access control, keyless entry lock on the front door for a safer experience. Together, you’ll have the ultimate safety protocols in place.
7.   LEAVE SIGNS OF LIFE
Avoid leaving tell-tale signs that you’re away when you leave home for extended periods. If you can, leave a car in the driveway to deter burglars who prefer to break-in while residents are away. Leave the light on in your bedroom, living room, or hallway so that, at night, your home will have the appearance of someone being there.
8.   GET OTHERS YOU TRUST INVOLVED
Sometimes, the best defense for your home is a great offense. Lean on people you trust to ensure the safety of your home while you’re away.
Ask your neighbors to return your trash cans to their rightful place and check your mail for a few days. A build-up of these items suggests to a potential burglar that no one is around to take care of these things. If possible, have someone check-in with your home and strategically change the appearance of the space. A friend can leave a different light on every few days when they drop by to water the plants in order to build on the semblance of someone living in the home.
9.   AVOID SHARING YOUR WHEREABOUTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Potential burglars may turn to digital channels to track your whereabouts. If they have your name or any other personal information and want to stalk your position before committing a crime, social media is a great place to start. Images depicting you enjoying a beach vacation, plus the appearance of an empty house, can make a burglary more likely. Avoid using geo locations in your social media pictures while you’re away. Instead, you can post everything once you return!
If you plan to travel this year, keep these tips in mind. You’ll have added peace of mind with the knowledge that your home and your belongings will be safe and sound. If you’re in need of locksmith services, consider calling BAYSIDE LOCKSMITH & SECURITY!

If you’ve ever lost your keys or locked yourself out, then you might see the appeal in a keyless entry for your home. With keyless entry, you will never have to worry about keeping track of your keys. Your security system will also become more sophisticated.
A keyless entry system allows you to secure your home without using the traditional mechanical key and lock. These locks are activated and disarmed using keypad entry, touchscreen entry, or even fingerprint entry.
Before you make the switch from your traditional lock and key, it’s important that you weigh your options first. While there are enough pros, you should also consider the cons and how they might affect your home security system and lifestyle.

PROS OF KEYLESS ENTRY FOR YOUR HOME
1. YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO KEEP TRACK OF YOUR KEYS
This is the major highlight of keyless entry locks for the home. You will no longer have to worry about keeping a key safe. No more hidden spare keys in prominent places such as under the mat or flower pot. For parents, the fear that your child may lose their keys and get stranded outside is usually present. With keyless entry, you’re always assured that your children get in safe. A keyless entry system can save you from a lot of hassle and expenses that come with losing your keys.
2. EASIER ACCESS FOR VISITORS AND RELATIVES
Have you ever had to rush home from work or a fun activity just to open the door for a visitor? Unexpected drop-ins might be welcome, but they can interrupt your day when you have a traditional lock. With keyless entry for your home, visitors can let themselves in by simply typing in your code. If you travel often, this system also makes it easier for neighbors and family members to check-in on your home and take care of the needed things.
3. MONITOR ACTIVITY WITH CODE ACCESS
Keyless entry allows you to track who comes into your home and when they do. With some systems, you can create unique codes for each person who needs entry into your home. As a parent, you can keep track of when your children get home daily, to ensure that they are safe. You can also keep track of other people who come into your home, such as the cleaner, and other staff.
4. WITHDRAW ACCESS IMMEDIATELY AT NO EXTRA COST
If you share a house or apartment with housemates, then several people could have access to your home at once. It is often advised to change your home locks once someone moves out. Even if they turn in their keys, they may have made copies without your knowledge. Changing traditional locks could get expensive over time, not to mention wasteful. With a keyless entry lock, you could deactivate the access to their personal code. If you suspect that they know the codes of other housemates, you can all change your codes at no extra cost.
CONS OF KEYLESS ENTRY FOR YOUR HOME
1.   THE SYSTEM COULD BE HACKED
Just like any other technology, keyless entry systems can be hacked. There are hackers out there who specialize in breaking such locks. It is not expected that you will immediately become a target once you install a keyless lock, however, there is always the possibility of being targeted. If you choose to switch to a keyless entry system for your home, make sure you use a password combination that is random and difficult to guess. Also, invest in a good-quality lock system brand with a high-security rate.
2. INSTALLATION COSTS
Several security brands offer different prices for their keyless entry systems. However, none of the quality options come cheap. Also, the cost of installing a keyless entry system is significantly higher than that of a traditional system. You will have to find someone who specializes in such locks or has the needed training to install and activate them. These contractors will charge a lot more than the regular lock installation rates.
If you’re making significant changes to your home with a moderate budget, a keyless lock may not be an immediate need. If you’re particularly interested in this system, you can always make the change when you can comfortably afford it.
3. POWER BREAK OR FAILURE
Power breaks may not often be, but they do happen. In a situation where your power goes out, it could mean that your home will be left with no security. If you’re going with a keyless entry system, it is expected that you live in an area with little to no record of power failure. If you have such occurrences, a backup power source is strongly advised.
4. YOU COULD FORGET THE CODE
It is possible that you could forget your codes just as you’ve probably forgotten your keys in the past. While installing these types of locks, we usually encourage homeowners to use a code that is random enough to prevent an easy hack job. Unfortunately, the combination might also be too erratic for the homeowner to remember. If you decide to go with a keyless entry system, you should trust your memory enough, or write down the code in a secure place.
5. POTENTIAL MALFUNCTION
Every electronic hardware device comes with the risk of malfunctioning. A good-quality security brand will install enough fail-safe measures into the lock to avoid such situations, however, failure is still possible. In such cases, you might get locked out of your home and require professional help to deactivate the lock.
There are many factors to consider before choosing to install keyless entry for your home. The number of people who need access to your home, your security requirements, and your budget will all come into play. We can’t choose an option for you, but we encourage you to consider both the pros and cons and make an informed decision. Your final choice should be one that makes your life easier and assures you of a secure home.

Thank You
Todd Theroux

Lock bumping is the name of a simplified technique that can be used to open deadbolt and cylinder locks with the help of a bump key or a 999 key. The procedure is usually preferred by property burglars targeting easy victims as it requires little operation time and can be used on a plethora of different locks.
These next few lines will explain to you exactly how a bump key works and tell you how to protect yourself against the lock bumping technique.
Lock Bumping Is A Concerning Phenomenon
About two-thirds of all property break-ins are completed with no signs of forced entry, according to data issued by the Department of Justice. Every day, our locksmiths answer dozens of calls from customers who fail to take even the most basic home security measures: locking the front doors and ground-floor windows. They are practically sending out an open invitation to neighborhood burglars lurking around. The poorer the security on your entryway locks and the less careful and diligent you are with your door and window locking habits, the more likely your home is to be broken into. Lock bumping is also one particular problem we are hired to fix. Namely. People who have already had their homes be perpetrated with the help of bump keys ask us to reinforce their locks.
Anyone interested in using this technique to make their way into a person’s home without their consent can learn how to do that from a YouTube tutorial. There are also plenty of webshops selling 999 keys to anyone who wishes to buy them, no questions asked, no need to show proof that you work as a locksmith or you are entitled to own such a key. Plus, if you own a 3D printer or you know someone who does, you could print out your own bump key in such a fee easy steps.
What is even more concerning is the fact that no lock can be considered 100% bump-proof. A seasoned burglar will usually bump open a lock within 20 seconds or less. Today’s modern locks tend to be even more prone to various lock picking and bumping procedures compared to older models. The fact that most American homes are secured with the help of cylinder locks is not helpful, as these types of locks are even more vulnerable when subject to the bumping technique.
Brief Definition Of Bump Keys
In short, pretty easy, since even a teenager could use such a key to open a lock. Lock bumping leaves no immediate visible traces behind, so it may be a while until a homeowner will notice and reports their place has been broken into. Plus, making a bump key should not usually last more than five minutes.
Bump keys are designed to profit from the vulnerabilities of pin tumbler locks. They are standard types of keys featuring max-depth valleys in order to match the keyway of all known types of mechanical locks. The keyway is the component of the lock where the key is inserted. Provided the bump key can fit the keyway, it will also most likely unlock the respective door. It is possible to buy complete, ready-made lock bumping sets online for a small price and use it for entering a building or someone’s home without owner consent. It is also possible to create a bump key using a triangular file and an older key you are no longer using. Burglars can create several 999 keys that can match different types of locks and use them to unlock around ninety percent of all known types of locks. We can include high-security locks in the same list.
How Lock-Bumping Works
The procedure is quite simple and can be completed by the least experienced burglars. The 999 key must be inserted into a lock’s keyhole and tapped with the help of a heavier object such as a hammer. As a result, the pins inside the lock will be pushed over the shear line. Once all the pins will reach the right position, the lock will need to be torqued in a fitting position, which will cause the lock to open on the spot.
How To Protect Against Lock Bumping
As a homeowner or a business manager worried about the security of your property and the people and prized possessions in it, your main concern should be to lower the risk of lock bumping. Luckily, some US states forbid the selling of “locksmithing devices” to individuals who are not anyone other than lock manufacturers or to persons who do not have a legal argument to make such a purchase. Sadly, this rule is not applied by all states, which means lock bumping continues to be one of the most popular break-in solutions preferred by lots of burglars. The easy access to bump keys and the ease of use forces you to take your own protection measures against this technique:
Have your locks periodically inspected by professionals. Get in touch with a local locksmith for homes or commercial buildings and have them assess your current locks and look for signs of malfunction or damage. Replace all worn-out locks, have them re-keyed or replace them with safer alternatives. For example, if you have been using cheap, mass-produced locks on your entryways, have them replaced with high-security locks, preferable deadbolt locks. Make sure you opt for locks that feature pickguards and focus on brands like Schlage. These are just a few examples of lock manufacturers that create bump-proof products featuring UL 437-rated cylinders known for their increased sturdiness.
Look for a lock with pins that cannot be bumped or locks that rely on a sidebar mechanism that is more difficult to pick with the bumping technique.
Ask a locksmith to drill several pun stacks shallowed compared to the rest. This way, a burglar will nor be able to use a bump key to pick the lock because the pins are placed too high for the 999 key to be used.

Thank You

Todd Theroux

When you begin shopping for a home safe, you will find that there are several decisions to make. Size and budget are, of course, considerations for everyone, as are what to store and where to locate your safe. But one of the most critical things to think about before making this important purchase is the primary type of protection you need. Safes are manufactured for two main purposes – fire-resistance and burglar resistance.

Since planning for the unexpected is a big part of the purpose of having a safe to begin with, it is a good recommendation to look for one that is both fire resistant and burglar resistant. They are readily available, though, as you might expect, are more expensive than those that offer protection from only fire or theft. However, the peace of mind they offer can be well worth the investment in the long run.

Introduction to Burglar and Fire Safes

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a safe as: “a place or receptacle to keep articles (as valuables) safe”. Another common definition of a safe is: “a metal container having a lock, used for storing valuables”.

Safes have been used for hundreds of years to protect valuables of all types, including cash, jewelry, art, and other precious objects. Safes are also used to protect to secret formulas, inventions, and other types of sensitive or classified information. Most businesses, retail stores, and many private residences have at least one safe.

As common as safes are, there are many misconceptions about them. Within this article, we will attempt to clear up these misconceptions and provide some basic guidelines for choosing a safe for your business.

Types of Safes

The first thing to know is that there are two general categories of safes: burglar safes, and fire safes. As you would expect, burglar safes are designed to provide protection against burglary, and fire safes are designed to provide protection against fire. Unfortunately, the things that are needed to provide protection against a forced-entry are not necessarily the same things that are needed to protect against fire, so safes are usually designed to provide protection against one or the other, but not both.

While some burglar safes provide a limited degree of protection against fire, and some fire safes provide limited resistance to burglary, a specialized safe of one type or the other is generally needed to provide the best protection against either fire or burglary.

Burglar Safes

Burglar safes are designed to provide protection against forced-entry. Burglars use a variety of tools to break into safes, including common hand tools, power tools, cutting torches, chemicals, and explosives. A burglar safe can be designed to resist each of these types of attacks, but specific materials and construction techniques must be used to protect against each type of threat.

It is important to note that no safe is burglar-proof – any safe can be opened if the burglar has the right tools, the proper skills, and a sufficient amount of time. The purpose of the safe is to deter burglaries, prevent thefts by unskilled thieves, and delay the skilled burglar. When used with other security measures, such as intrusion alarm systems, a safe can provide a delay that increases the chances that the burglar will be apprehended or flee the premises before the burglary is completed.

Burglar safes are classified based upon the types of burglary tools that they are designed to resist, and the amount of time that a burglar with these tools needs to penetrate the safe. The more types of tools that the safe is designed to resist, and the longer it takes to penetrate it, the better the protection.

There are two methods used to classify safes: construction ratings, and performance ratings.

Construction ratings rank safes on the way that they are constructed, such as the type and thickness of the materials used. Common construction ratings include “B-rated safes”, “C-rated safes” , and “B/C-rated safes”. Construction rating methods were used by the safe industry in the past, but this method of rating has become less popular in recent years. One drawback to this rating system is that there is no independent testing or validation of the ratings – manufacturers can simply claim a rating based upon the way that the safe is constructed. Also, there is no guarantee that the safe will resist any specific type of attack for any specific amount of time, although this may be implied.

Performance ratings rank safes according to written standards developed by an independent testing laboratory. The preeminent testing laboratory in the United States is Underwriters Laboratories (UL). A written standard, called UL 687, provides rigorous requirements that safes must conform to in order to display a UL rating. UL 687 provides specific ratings based upon the types of burglary tools used and the amount of time that a safe can delay an attack. These ratings are designated using an alphanumeric code, such as “TL-15”, “TRTL-30”, etc. The following codes are used within the ratings:

• TL = Tool-Resistant: designed to resist attack from common hand tools and power tools.
• TR = Torch-Resistant: designed to resist attack from cutting torches.
• TX = Explosive and Torch-Resistant: designed to resist attack from explosives and torches.
• 15 = Designed to resist attacks for a minimum of fifteen minutes.
• 30 = Designed to resist attacks for a minimum of thirty minutes.
• 60 = Designed to resist attacks for a minimum of sixty minutes.

The codes are combined to form the safe’s rating. The following are some examples of commonly used ratings for commercial safes:

• TL-15 = Tool-Resistant Safe, fifteen-minute rating.
• TL-30 = Tool-Resistant Safe, thirty-minute rating.
• TRTL-15 = Torch-and-Tool-Resistant Safe, fifteen-minute rating.
• TRTL-30 = Torch-and-Tool-Resistant Safe, thirty-minute rating.
• TXTL-60 = Torch, Explosive, and Tool-Resistant Safe, sixty-minute rating.

The basic rating system is based on the safe’s ability to provide protection against an attack on the safe’s door and door face, the most common points of forced entry. An additional rating is provided for safes that provide protection on all six sides (face, top, bottom, back, left side, and right side.) These safes receive the additional designator “X6”, which is appended to the basic rating. An example of such a rating would be “TL-15X6”, which would be a Tool-Resistant Safe that provides protection for fifteen minutes on all six sides of the safe.

Many people are shocked when they hear that some UL rated burglar safes can be penetrated in as little as sixteen minutes. Keep in mind that UL conducts its tests using expert safe crackers in a laboratory setting, and that these safe crackers study construction blueprints of each safe before they crack it. While a world-class burglar might be able to crack a TL-15 safe in 16 minutes, it would probably take the average burglar an hour or more, even if he was reasonably skilled. TL-30 and TL-60 safes are even more difficult to crack, putting them beyond the capabilities of all but the most professional of burglars.

Fire Safes

Fire safes are designed to provide protection of the safe’s contents against damage caused by fire. Just as burglar safes are not “burglar-proof”, fire safes are not “fire-proof” – they only provide resistance to a certain type of fire for a certain period of time – hopefully long enough for the fire department to arrive and extinguish the blaze.

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has a comprehensive system for the rating of fire safes. This rating system classifies safes based upon the assets that they are designed to store, the expected temperature of the fire, and the time period that the assets are to be protected. The rating system also envisions situations where a safe may be located on the upper floor of a building, and due to a fire, the safe falls through the floor to the floor below. In these situations, the safe must provide protection against the initial fire, resist the damage caused by the drop to the floor below, and continue to provide protection as the safe lies within the burning rubble.

There are three main UL rating categories for fire safes:

• UL Class 350: keeps safe contents at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit or less and at a humidity of 85% or less for the specified time period. Suitable for storage of paper documents.
• UL Class 150: keeps safe contents at a temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit or less and at a humidity of 85% or less for the specified time period. Suitable for storage of magnetic tape, optical media such as CDs and DVDs, and paper documents.
• UL Class 125: keeps safe contents at a temperature of 125 degrees Fahrenheit or less and at a humidity of 80% or less for the specified time period. Provides highest level of protection. Suitable for storage of most all electronic media and paper documents. Class 125 rated safes also have water-resistant seals on the safe door to prevent the entry of water.

Class 350, Class 150, and Class 125 ratings are further defined by a minimum time period during which the safe provides the specified level of protection. Time period ratings of one-half hour, one-hour, two-hour, three-hour, and four-hour are available. For example, a Class 350 One-Hour Safe would keep its contents at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit or less for a minimum of one-hour.

Unless specifically stated otherwise by the manufacturer, Class 350, Class 150, and Class 125 safes are not rated to resist burglary. While a fire safe that is equipped with a high-security lock does provide some protection against an amateur thief, a professional burglar can open most fire safes in just a matter of minutes.

Guidelines for Choosing a Safe

Safes should be specifically chosen based on the types of assets that they will protect and the types of threats that these assets face. A security risk assessment should be conducted to determine the type or types of safes that your facility will require.

1. Consult with your insurance company to determine if they have minimum requirements for safes and to determine if insurance discounts are available if certain types of safes are used.
2. If you are in a regulated industry, determine if there are any specific regulatory requirements for safes. For example, some government contractors are required to store classified documents in safes that meet certain minimum standards.
3. In general, the better protection a safe provides, the more it costs, and the more it weighs. While it would be foolish to protect a million dollars worth of assets in a $500 safe, it also doesn’t make sense to spend $10,000 for a safe that will be used to store a $500 petty cash fund.
4. For best results, choose safes that have a recognized UL rating. Be careful when choosing a safe that has a letter rating (B, B4, C, E, F, M, etc.) unless it also has a UL rating (TL-15, etc.) While there are some non-UL-rated safes that can provide adequate protection, you are always taking a chance when you buy a non-rated safe. Watch out for claims of burglary-resistance or fire resistance that are not substantiated by a specific UL rating.
5. If you have a need for a safe that provides protection against both burglary and fire, choose a UL rated burglar safe that has fire-protective cladding added to it. When choosing this option, first be sure that the safe has the UL burglary rating that you require, and then determine the level of fire protection that the safe also provides. Safes in this category are harder to find and generally only available from larger safe manufacturers.
6. Purchase your safe from a well-known and reputable supplier, not just someone you have found on the web that seems to offer the lowest price. Buying a safe from a reputable local dealer in your community has many advantages, not the least of which is the dealer’s ability to provide prompt on-site service in the event of a problem. (Do you really want to return your 2,000 pound safe back to the factory for service?)
7. Most safes sold through office supply channels (Costco, OfficeMax, Staples, etc) are fire-rated (if rated at all) and provide minimal protection against burglary. Some safes sold in office supply or retail stores have a UL RSC (Residential Security Container) rating. This rating provides protection against tool attacks for only five minutes and is not recommended for commercial use.

Thank You for your business,

Todd Theroux

Owner/Operator

When you begin shopping for a home safe, you will find that there are several decisions to make. Size and budget are, of course, considerations for everyone, as are what to store and where to locate your safe. But one of the most critical things to think about before making this important purchase is the primary type of protection you need. Safes are manufactured for two main purposes – fire-resistance and burglar resistance.
Since planning for the unexpected is a big part of the purpose of having a safe to begin with, it is a good recommendation to look for one that is both fire resistant and burglar resistant. They are readily available, though, as you might expect, are more expensive than those that offer protection from only fire or theft. However, the peace of mind they offer can be well worth the investment in the long run.

Introduction to Burglar and Fire Safes
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a safe as: “a place or receptacle to keep articles (as valuables) safe”. Another common definition of a safe is: “a metal container having a lock, used for storing valuables”.

Safes have been used for hundreds of years to protect valuables of all types, including cash, jewelry, art, and other precious objects. Safes are also used to protect to secret formulas, inventions, and other types of sensitive or classified information. Most businesses, retail stores, and many private residences have at least one safe.

As common as safes are, there are many misconceptions about them. Within this article, we will attempt to clear up these misconceptions and provide some basic guidelines for choosing a safe for your business.

Types of Safes

The first thing to know is that there are two general categories of safes: burglar safes, and fire safes. As you would expect, burglar safes are designed to provide protection against burglary, and fire safes are designed to provide protection against fire. Unfortunately, the things that are needed to provide protection against a forced-entry are not necessarily the same things that are needed to protect against fire, so safes are usually designed to provide protection against one or the other, but not both.

While some burglar safes provide a limited degree of protection against fire, and some fire safes provide limited resistance to burglary, a specialized safe of one type or the other is generally needed to provide the best protection against either fire or burglary.

Burglar Safes

Burglar safes are designed to provide protection against forced-entry. Burglars use a variety of tools to break into safes, including common hand tools, power tools, cutting torches, chemicals, and explosives. A burglar safe can be designed to resist each of these types of attacks, but specific materials and construction techniques must be used to protect against each type of threat.

It is important to note that no safe is burglar-proof – any safe can be opened if the burglar has the right tools, the proper skills, and a sufficient amount of time. The purpose of the safe is to deter burglaries, prevent thefts by unskilled thieves, and delay the skilled burglar. When used with other security measures, such as intrusion alarm systems, a safe can provide a delay that increases the chances that the burglar will be apprehended or flee the premises before the burglary is completed.

Burglar safes are classified based upon the types of burglary tools that they are designed to resist, and the amount of time that a burglar with these tools needs to penetrate the safe. The more types of tools that the safe is designed to resist, and the longer it takes to penetrate it, the better the protection.

There are two methods used to classify safes: construction ratings, and performance ratings.

Construction ratings rank safes on the way that they are constructed, such as the type and thickness of the materials used. Common construction ratings include “B-rated safes”, “C-rated safes” , and “B/C-rated safes”. Construction rating methods were used by the safe industry in the past, but this method of rating has become less popular in recent years. One drawback to this rating system is that there is no independent testing or validation of the ratings – manufacturers can simply claim a rating based upon the way that the safe is constructed. Also, there is no guarantee that the safe will resist any specific type of attack for any specific amount of time, although this may be implied.

Performance ratings rank safes according to written standards developed by an independent testing laboratory. The preeminent testing laboratory in the United States is Underwriters Laboratories (UL). A written standard, called UL 687, provides rigorous requirements that safes must conform to in order to display a UL rating. UL 687 provides specific ratings based upon the types of burglary tools used and the amount of time that a safe can delay an attack. These ratings are designated using an alphanumeric code, such as “TL-15”, “TRTL-30”, etc. The following codes are used within the ratings:
* TL = Tool-Resistant: designed to resist attack from common hand tools and power tools.
* TR = Torch-Resistant: designed to resist attack from cutting torches.
* TX = Explosive and Torch-Resistant: designed to resist attack from explosives and torches.
* 15 = Designed to resist attacks for a minimum of fifteen minutes.
* 30 = Designed to resist attacks for a minimum of thirty minutes.
* 60 = Designed to resist attacks for a minimum of sixty minutes.

The codes are combined to form the safe’s rating. The following are some examples of commonly used ratings for commercial safes:
* TL-15 = Tool-Resistant Safe, fifteen-minute rating.
* TL-30 = Tool-Resistant Safe, thirty-minute rating.
* TRTL-15 = Torch-and-Tool-Resistant Safe, fifteen-minute rating.
* TRTL-30 = Torch-and-Tool-Resistant Safe, thirty-minute rating.
* TXTL-60 = Torch, Explosive, and Tool-Resistant Safe, sixty-minute rating.

The basic rating system is based on the safe’s ability to provide protection against an attack on the safe’s door and door face, the most common points of forced entry. An additional rating is provided for safes that provide protection on all six sides (face, top, bottom, back, left side, and right side.) These safes receive the additional designator “X6”, which is appended to the basic rating. An example of such a rating would be “TL-15X6”, which would be a Tool-Resistant Safe that provides protection for fifteen minutes on all six sides of the safe.

Many people are shocked when they hear that some UL rated burglar safes can be penetrated in as little as sixteen minutes. Keep in mind that UL conducts its tests using expert safe crackers in a laboratory setting, and that these safe crackers study construction blueprints of each safe before they crack it. While a world-class burglar might be able to crack a TL-15 safe in 16 minutes, it would probably take the average burglar an hour or more, even if he was reasonably skilled. TL-30 and TL-60 safes are even more difficult to crack, putting them beyond the capabilities of all but the most professional of burglars.

Fire Safes

Fire safes are designed to provide protection of the safe’s contents against damage caused by fire. Just as burglar safes are not “burglar-proof”, fire safes are not “fire-proof” – they only provide resistance to a certain type of fire for a certain period of time – hopefully long enough for the fire department to arrive and extinguish the blaze.

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has a comprehensive system for the rating of fire safes. This rating system classifies safes based upon the assets that they are designed to store, the expected temperature of the fire, and the time period that the assets are to be protected. The rating system also envisions situations where a safe may be located on the upper floor of a building, and due to a fire, the safe falls through the floor to the floor below. In these situations, the safe must provide protection against the initial fire, resist the damage caused by the drop to the floor below, and continue to provide protection as the safe lies within the burning rubble.

There are three main UL rating categories for fire safes:
* UL Class 350: keeps safe contents at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit or less and at a humidity of 85% or less for the specified time period. Suitable for storage of paper documents.
* UL Class 150: keeps safe contents at a temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit or less and at a humidity of 85% or less for the specified time period. Suitable for storage of magnetic tape, optical media such as CDs and DVDs, and paper documents.
* UL Class 125: keeps safe contents at a temperature of 125 degrees Fahrenheit or less and at a humidity of 80% or less for the specified time period. Provides highest level of protection. Suitable for storage of most all electronic media and paper documents. Class 125 rated safes also have water-resistant seals on the safe door to prevent the entry of water.

Class 350, Class 150, and Class 125 ratings are further defined by a minimum time period during which the safe provides the specified level of protection. Time period ratings of one-half hour, one-hour, two-hour, three-hour, and four-hour are available. For example, a Class 350 One-Hour Safe would keep its contents at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit or less for a minimum of one-hour.

Unless specifically stated otherwise by the manufacturer, Class 350, Class 150, and Class 125 safes are not rated to resist burglary. While a fire safe that is equipped with a high-security lock does provide some protection against an amateur thief, a professional burglar can open most fire safes in just a matter of minutes.

Guidelines for Choosing a Safe

Safes should be specifically chosen based on the types of assets that they will protect and the types of threats that these assets face. A security risk assessment should be conducted to determine the type or types of safes that your facility will require.
1. Consult with your insurance company to determine if they have minimum requirements for safes and to determine if insurance discounts are available if certain types of safes are used.
2. If you are in a regulated industry, determine if there are any specific regulatory requirements for safes. For example, some government contractors are required to store classified documents in safes that meet certain minimum standards.
3. In general, the better protection a safe provides, the more it costs, and the more it weighs. While it would be foolish to protect a million dollars worth of assets in a $500 safe, it also doesn’t make sense to spend $10,000 for a safe that will be used to store a $500 petty cash fund.
4. For best results, choose safes that have a recognized UL rating. Be careful when choosing a safe that has a letter rating (B, B4, C, E, F, M, etc.) unless it also has a UL rating (TL-15, etc.) While there are some non-UL-rated safes that can provide adequate protection, you are always taking a chance when you buy a non-rated safe. Watch out for claims of burglary-resistance or fire resistance that are not substantiated by a specific UL rating.
5. If you have a need for a safe that provides protection against both burglary and fire, choose a UL rated burglar safe that has fire-protective cladding added to it. When choosing this option, first be sure that the safe has the UL burglary rating that you require, and then determine the level of fire protection that the safe also provides. Safes in this category are harder to find and generally only available from larger safe manufacturers.
6. Purchase your safe from a well-known and reputable supplier, not just someone you have found on the web that seems to offer the lowest price. Buying a safe from a reputable local dealer in your community has many advantages, not the least of which is the dealer’s ability to provide prompt on-site service in the event of a problem. (Do you really want to return your 2,000 pound safe back to the factory for service?)
7. Most safes sold through office supply channels (Costco, OfficeMax, Staples, etc) are fire-rated (if rated at all) and provide minimal protection against burglary. Some safes sold in office supply or retail stores have a UL RSC (Residential Security Container) rating. This rating provides protection against tool attacks for only five minutes and is not recommended for commercial use.

Thanks for your business,

Todd Theroux
Owner-Operator

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN REKEYING VS. CHANGING LOCKS?
There will be circumstances where updating locks is required. When renting a home, property owners should choose to rekey their locks. In the instance of a break-in, many homeowners choose to change locks.
So, which is which?
Rekeying a lock involves maintaining the same lock mechanism, but exchanging the key that fits. In this instance, the lock functionality remains, but the inner workings of the lock are changed. A new key can then be used, but the full lock itself is not replaced.
When a professional locksmith conducts a rekeying on a lock, they will replace the inner springs and pins in the lock cylinder. When you look at a key and notice the ridges, you know that those markings represent the appropriate lock’s inner springs and pins. The arrangement of those parts match the key, allowing it to be used to unlock a door. The rekeying process involves rearranging those working parts inside the lock cylinder so that the key will no longer work. Then, a new key can be fitted.
In order for a locksmith to rekey a lock, you’ll need to  have the current key on hand. If, for instance, you lose your key, you can still rekey your lock if you have a spare key, or someone else in your home has a key. It’s possible to rekey a lock without the original key, but it will require the locksmith to pick the lock. This may incur more costs for you.
Changing a lock, on the other hand, involves a different process. In this instance, the full lock is physically removed from the door. The locksmith unscrews the lock, removes the mechanism and deadbolt, and replaces them with a brand new lock.
In most instances, rekeying a lock is more cost effective than replacing a lock. In some cases, the process of rekeying can identify issues with the lock that require lock replacement as well.

WHEN SHOULD YOU REKEY A LOCK?
How do you know which option is right for you? Depending on the nature of your situation, a simple rekeying could be a great choice.
Some instances where rekeying a lock is ideal:
* You lost your keys with no idea who may now have access
* You recently moved into a new home and don’t know who else has a key
* Divorce or separation
* You have many different keys to locks at entries to your home
* You gave a spare key to a third party
In most cases, a simple rekey is a great and affordable choice to keep your home protected.

WHEN SHOULD YOU CHANGE A LOCK?
There are other instances where it is more appropriate to change a lock entirely This might include:
* After a break-in, when the lock is damaged
* Old, rusted or broken locks
* You have many different types or brands of locks in your home
* You want to upgrade to a new style of lock (such as keyless entry)
Changing locks is not always necessary. In fact, in most cases rekeying is a great option for home security. However, you should consult with a professional locksmith for a better understanding of which option is right for you.
SHOULD I REKEY OR CHANGE LOCKS FOR MY BUSINESS OR COMMERCIAL BUILDING?
Homes are not the only types of structures that can benefit from rekeying or changing locks. In fact, small buildings, corporate offices and more should consider these options as well.
Some other types of businesses that benefit from rekeying or changing locks include:
* Small businesses
* Corporate offices
* Hotels
* Financial institutions
* Supermarkets
* Retail establishments
* Tenant buildings
This is especially true in the instances of older buildings. Some opportunities to rekey or change a lock in a commercial space include:
* After layoffs or when employees are fired
* After a break-in
* After remodeling
* When locks are in bad condition
* When buildings are aged
* In preparation for inspection
* When property ownership changes
* Moving into a new office building
* Upgrading key technology
Coordinating rekeying or lock changes in large office buildings can be a challenge. Your team will need to set a date, inform employees or tenants, and coordinate the key switch. Proper planning can help you execute this process seamlessly.
In many cases, rekeying locks is a viable option. At other times, such as when you want to create a master key system, or upgrade to an access control system, changing locks is necessary. Bayside Locksmith & Security can facilitate this process so it is smooth and efficient for you and for your employees or tenants.

Thanks for Your Business,
Todd Theroux
Owner/Operator

As locksmiths serving Green Bay and the surrounding regions for years, we deal in the business of keeping our clients safe and their possessions secure.
We do much more than help people get back into their vehicle when they’ve been locked out, or replacing key fobs that have stopped working. From your home to your business, and your vehicle and other items that need to be locked, we work diligently to keep you, your loved ones, and your treasured belongings safe and secure.
In that vein, today we want to share with you several key-related tips that are designed to keep you safe around your car. These tips apply to everyone, so share them freely with your friends and family.
KEEP YOUR KEYS IN YOUR HAND
One of the worst things you can do when you leave your car, or when you’re about to get into your car, is to fumble through your purse, backpack, briefcase, or other personal items in search of keys. This puts you in a very vulnerable space. If a would-be kidnapper, robber, or carjacker has their eyes on you, they will use your vulnerability against you. They will pounce while you’re distractedly searching for your keys.
When you approach your vehicle, have your keys ready in your hand. Even better, have the right key sorted out. If you’re standing next to your car trying to sort through all the keys in your keyring, it’s just as bad as trying to search through your bag or case. Have THE key that will unlock your car ready to go.
Of course, you’ll need to hold it securely. If you drop it on your way to your vehicle, this becomes a new security issue. A potential attacker or thief will take the opportune moment when you’re looking for your keys on the ground to execute their evil plan. Take precautions to avoid dropping your keys when you’re about to enter your vehicle.
One more thing: When you get out of your car and take steps towards your home, once again it’s important to have your keys ready. Before you unlock your car to get out, find your house key. As you walk to your house, hold your front-door key in your hand. This way, you’ll enter quickly, giving would-be criminals less time to make a move.
LOCK YOUR VEHICLE
When you exit your car, make sure to lock it. Don’t make it easy for car thieves to take your car! Locking it is a basic precaution everyone needs to take. We also recommend locking your car when you’re inside. Some people may argue that it’s difficult to get out of a locked car in a hurry if you need to, such as in the improbable (but potential) event that your engine catches fire, for example. But we feel that keeping your car doors locked while you’re inside prevents potential carjackers from gaining entry into your vehicle.
REPLACE THE BATTERY IN YOUR KEY FOB
If your car opens with a key fob, you rely on fresh, functional batteries for your car to respond to the signal you send it. Pressing the button on your remote key won’t unlock your car if the batteries have run out, putting you in a vulnerable position. In addition to making sure your fob has working batteries, keep fresh replacement batteries on hand.
A word of caution: Don’t try to replace the batteries of your remote car key while you’re standing next to your vehicle. When you realize that you have to change the batteries, return to a safe place,such as your home, your work, or a public space (like a library), and complete the replacement task there. At all times, think about your personal safety. Don’t let a distraction put you in danger.
TEND TO KEY FOB REPLACEMENTS IN A TIMELY MANNER
If your remote car keys are malfunctioning or falling apart, don’t wait until they’ve stopped working altogether. Tend to any needed key fob replacements as soon as you can. This will prevent unfortunate (and potentially unsafe) situations from developing down the road.
For all your auto locksmith needs in and around Green Bay, turn to the car locksmiths you can trust. Bayside Locksmith & Security will help you with everything from replacement car keys to helping when your keys accidentally get locked in your car. Reach out to us today!

Thank You

Todd Theroux