What to Do if Your Car Key Is Stuck in the Ignition

Over the years there has always been the extremely troublesome issue of finding the key stuck in the ignition to your car, whether you are at home, outside the office or out running errands. It is easy to simply think that the car has failed completely and that the most expensive repair is in your future. While this is an extremely stressful moment, we find ourselves lucky today with many keys that are not quite as simple as what they used to be. With the digital transponder keys that only have to be in a certain range of the ignition, allowing a button to start the car, this is not necessarily the immediate problem. With the transponder key, it is still something that can seem to occur, though it is likely much more easily resolved.  

So, if you are in a hurry and the problem of a key stuck in the ignition occurs, there are plenty of options right here in Brickell, FL that can help get you on your way. There is no reason to panic and attempt to solve the issue yourself. An experienced professional can be there in minutes. So, first and foremost, never walk away from your car while the key is in the ignition, because if someone else is able to get the key to turn your car could be gone before you return. In this age of cell phones, help can be called from anywhere, 24/7. 

If you do have some time to take a look for yourself there are some simple steps that you can take to see if the key is truly stuck and maybe a little more detail as to what the problem is. 

First, Check the Position of the Ignition Cylinder

Remember that there are four basic positions of the ignition cylinder, and if you can see which position the key is rotated to, then it may be able to help. You should make sure that you have the key in the “off” position. This is usually where the car is no longer running but you can still hear the stereo. 

One mistake that is often made is not realizing that you have turned the key too far, back past the “off” position, back to the “on” position that actually only turns on the car’s electrical system. You will hear the radio still on, but the key won’t move. Additionally, you should check that the car is in park (if you drive an automatic transmission car). Cars with an automatic transmission require that the car is in park before the key can be removed, even if the engine is off. 

As the driver of a manual transmission automobile I will admit that this is something I forget when driving a friend’s car, as I have gotten into the habit of popping the car into neutral, pulling the parking brake and quickly turning it off. 

Another Option is to Gently Turn the Wheel

You can take another step by turning the steering wheel gently over and over again a few times. At the same time try to remove the key, though you may have to wiggle it gently as well. It is easy to get frustrated in a time of stress, so make sure that these actions are gentle so that neither the ignition or key are bent or damaged to the point of needed replacement, as that would be more expensive. If you have ever noticed that the steering wheel will automatically lock into a straightforward position when you are turning the car off, this is part of what this trouble could be. The position of the steering wheel could not be correct, and it could have locked the ignition cylinder, thus locking the key into place.   

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Panic Bars, Importance in Commercial Property

Panic bars are also known by multiple different names. Some of the common terminology you will hear is panic bar, emergency bar, panic device, exit bar and push bar. But it doesn’t matter what name you decide to refer to it as, because the purpose is the same. A panic bar was designed to offer more protection specifically during a situation that requires fast evacuation. Do you have a panic bar in case there is an emergency at your property? If you own a business, then it is important you bear in mind the importance of not only protecting yourself but your employees and customers as well. If you are looking into them, then that is a great sign. You are a responsible commercial property owner.  

So, let’s start with the basics. A panic bar will be inserted usually on a fire exit door. It serves to prevent issues such as trampling if a crowd were to need to get out fast. 

Panic Bar Benefits

The panic device works as a way to quickly open the door fast. Here’s what happens: one will press the bar down on the door and this is done in place of needing to turn a knob. Another option would be to press down on a door handle. You will see a panic bar on other doors besides just fire exits. But you’ve likely noticed them before, whether at a movie theater, in a retail store or elsewhere. When the bar is pushed (it comes in the form of a metal bar), the door is unlatched thanks to a mechanism which is activated when the bar is pressed downward. Anyone who is in your property will be able to quickly exit at this point. Many states are required to have panic bars by law, so make sure that you know the requirements in your state.  

It is beneficial to have a panic bar at your business property, and this isn’t just because it’s a safety feature to have one. Here are some of the major perks: 

• Enhanced safety – It is a given that the occupants in your building will be able to get out promptly if needed. 
• There are many different choices available to you – we are talking about price points and appearance.  There are different style options. You will want one that is fire-rated. You can get one in steel. If you want to know what is available, just ask an expert locksmith, like us!
• Improve insurance costs – Your insurance might actually decrease because of having a panic device in place. It makes sense – your property would become safer if you were to have one, therefore, insurance costs go down.
• Finally, you can find excellent prices. A quick Google search reveals panic bars at various price points. Qualified Hardware has them listed for several hundred dollars. You’ll find alarmed panic devices on their site. Harney Hardware has them for less than $100. RBA Door has one for $160. As you can see, there is no shortage of options – or price points.

Consider what would happen if there were too many people to safely evacuate your building in an emergency like a fire or even an armed robbery. You likely have a certain capacity you are allowed to have, but what if you were at capacity? Would people be able to get out fast enough? The peace of mind they offer is priceless. And you don’t have to worry that a criminal could use them. They can only be used from the inside. Better yet, you can have them come with an alarm system. 

Crash Bar Installation – Hire A Locksmith!

Locksmith Brickell provides services like panic bar installation in Brickell, FL. We want you to know that crash bars have proven to be effective when it comes to helping with the evacuation of a large group of people when time might be limited. Even though they are sure to be effective, they still have to be properly installed. If not, they will not work how they are meant to. It is a much better idea to avoid problems and to have a licensed and insured locksmith get the job done for you. Don’t worry about the cost – this is an affordable service…

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Benefits of Keyless Entry Systems

Keyless entry systems are increasingly replacing traditional lock and key hardware systems in this modern age to protect personal and commercially owned property. Vehicle manufacturers were the first to introduce widespread keyless entry systems and most new vehicles manufactured today feature keyless entry and starter systems. However, commercial properties in Brickell, FL are also taking advantage of the many benefits keyless entry can provide the business owner over traditional locks. More progress is being made in the field all the time to make keyless entry systems safer, more secure, and easier to install and operate than ever.   

This article will describe the types of keyless entry systems and the benefits associated with having a keyless entry system. The switch can be a very positive one even if you don’t have much experience with this type of technology. An experienced locksmith company like Locksmith Brickell can help you decide what type of keyless entry system is right for your property and install it properly.   

Types of Keyless Security Systems  

• Vehicle Keyless Security: Keyless entry systems can also be retrofitted on many vehicles, replacing the physical lock and key security they are currently outfitted with. 
• Keypad Security: Keypads are installed on many types of commercial doors, although they have been phased out in recent years for more advanced forms of security systems. 
• Card Key Reader: Most commonly used by hotels and hospitals, card key reader systems function by allowing only those with the associated card that the door is programmed with to enter.
• Digital Security: Digital security includes digital pin numbers and smart lock systems that function via communication with smart phones. The biggest flaw with this type of security system is vulnerability to hacking; however, recent advances are eliminating these security flaws all the time. 
• Biometric Entry Systems: Biometric entry include cutting edge advances in keyless security and are the future of locksmith technology. Biometric scanners include fingerprint readers, facial recognition readers, and eye scanners. While these are more expensive than other security systems, they provide the most sophisticated security options on the market.   

Benefits of Keyless Security Systems

Ability to Control Who Accesses the Property

The biggest advantage of keyless entry systems is the ability to control who accesses the property, whether it be your vehicle or your business. Whether by an access code programmed onto a card or keypad, a digital password, or a fingerprint scan, you can allow access only to the individuals who you deem should have it and no one else. You can also track who has accessed the property at what times and when entrance has been attempted but denied with some keyless security systems. Vehicle security systems can prevent would-be car thieves, and the lack of exterior keyholes and sign of a keyless system is a powerful deterrent for criminals.   

Convenient Daily Use 

Keyless security allows you to have access to your vehicle at the push of a button, which is a benefit for today’s active, busy lifestyle. No matter where you need to go, you don’t have to waste time looking for your keys or fiddling around with your locks. This is especially convenient if you’re out shopping or otherwise have your hands full, to open your trunk or car doors with just a button tap instead of juggling what you’re holding to use a key. Unlike some security upgrades, keyless entry makes the use of your vehicle more convenient. You can unlock or lock your car door from inside your home and if the car has remote start, engage the vehicle as well. This can allow you to get ready for work in the morning and be ready to go the instant your seat belt is on in a fully primed vehicle. These small changes may not seem like much but added up over the days into the years they make for a much easier time. Keyless security for your business allows you to easily access your property while keeping access under control by eliminating unwanted entry. It makes it so that you don’t have to worry about making keys for every employee or losing keys.    

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Tips to Hire a Good Locksmith

Many people have had unpleasant experiences with locksmiths. In most cases, the locksmith did not install a lock properly or failed to replace a lock correctly. In many other cases, locksmiths have asked for very high prices for even the most basic of services. It is no wonder locksmiths have a bad reputation and many people tend to avoid them. To be honest, there are locksmiths that have almost no experience in this field. They are giving a bad name to every other professional locksmith in the city.

If you live in Florida, we have some awesome news for you. Locksmith Brickell (from Brickell, Florida) is the company that works only with professional locksmiths who have extensive experience in this field. We have manually selected our staff so that only the best locksmiths work for us. Also, our rates are very affordable. Many say that we are the cheapest such service in the state. You will never have to worry about the quality of our work. Our customer service is exemplary. We respect our clients and they come first for us. This is why want to thank them by offering the best locksmith services possible.

If you don’t live in FL, you can still find a reliable locksmith in your area if you do some research on the Internet. Whatever you do, just make sure the locksmith you pick has at least a few of the following attributes.

The Attributes of a Reliable Locksmith

There are a few things you need to pay attention to when you are looking for a good locksmith in your area. Analyze the website of the locksmith and their offer, and look for the following attributes:

• Affordable rates and honesty

Many locksmiths will have you break the bank for their services. This is not how it is supposed to work. Locksmith services should be affordable so that everyone should be able to protect their home and their loved ones. We have also heard cases where locksmiths deliberately quote a low price and then come up with hidden fees to inflate the bill. This is not a legal practice and we frown upon anyone doing business this way. 

Your locksmith should be able to give you a price estimate in writing before he starts on the job. You need to see everything from mileage charges to other related fees for his services. If you don’t receive this price estimate, we suggest you go elsewhere.

• The locksmith should offer a wide range of services

There are some locksmiths that know how to change locks and are very good at it. But what if you need to install some electronic locks? This is why you need to work with a locksmith that offers a diverse range of services. Don’t forget to check if the locksmith is able to offer emergency services. It may prove invaluable if you experience a lockout at 4 in the morning. Reliable locksmiths work 24/7 and are able to assist you immediately in case of a problem.

• The locksmith is a local

If your locksmith is a local, you have a lot of things to gain. For example, he probably has ties with the community and does a better job for locals. Also, a local will not put you on hold or leave you talking with an answering machine. Corporations don’t care much about a single client, but a local locksmith definitely does. His reputation is at stake and he will do whatever possible to assist you as fast and as best he can. In most cases, response times are shorter and the prices are more reasonable when you work with a local locksmith.

• The locksmith can help immediately

Companies that are not local will have longer response times because it will take them a while to get in touch with a locksmith in the area and dispatch him to you. If you are having an emergency, you will really appreciate a fast response time. This is why it better to work with a local. In addition, a local company cares more about your wellbeing and about the safety of your loved ones. Some locksmith companies do everything they can to dispatch a technician in minutes to your location.

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If Apple loses, your home could be the next thing that’s unlocked

Access to your security cameras would be just a judge order away.

By: Roberto Baldwin , @strngwys

In a recent interview about Apple’s ongoing legal battle with the Department of Justice, Tim Cook said that our smartphones have more information about us and our families than any other device we own. He’s right. 

And if the FBI is able to compel Apple or any company to circumvent a phone’s encryption, it would tap into a wealth of information. But it’s not just the tiny computers in our pocket we need to be concerned about. Your home and car tech could also be affected by the ruling if law enforcement deems it necessary.

Look around your home, office or car. How many microphones, cameras or sensors are pointed at you right now? Even if these devices are not connected to a service or server, they’re probably still there watching and listening. Hopefully the manufacturers did their jobs and all those eyes and ears are encrypted. But, if Apple is forced to help the FBI get into that iPhone, even that encryption won’t matter.

The Internet of Things have been a target of security researchers (and rightfully so), but that’s forced companies to make it a priority to secure these devices. Which is paramount because they record an incredible amount of information about you and your family. Cameras like the Nest Cam track who comes in and out of your home. Microphones embedded in devices like the Amazon Echo and smart TVs let you check the weather, change channels and order items with your voice.

James Arlen, director of risk for Leviathan Security Group is concerned with how that information will be used. “There is absolutely an issue. The world of consumer IoT – including wearables, cars and ‘things that live in my house’ – is the product of companies that are for the most part hoovering up huge gulps of personal data,” he told Engadget.

Both Amazon and Nest encrypt the data sent from their devices. Yet, if the Department of Justice gets its way, that’s just a minor inconvenience for law enforcement if you’re suspected of a crime.

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