A Tucsonan's Guide to Home Security: Beyond the Basics

On Call Locksmith
Aug 8
3 min read

Living in Tucson offers a unique blend of vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty. However, like any major metropolitan area, being mindful of home security is a real concern for residents. While official reports often show crime rates fluctuating, it's the personal sense of safety that truly matters. A quick glance at data from sources like the MAP Dashboard reveals that property crime occurs at a much higher rate than violent crime in the Tucson metro area. This underscores a crucial point: protecting your home from theft and burglary is a top priority.

This article isn't about fear; it's about empowerment. By understanding the risks and taking strategic steps, you can significantly fortify your home and secure your peace of mind.

The First Line of Defense: Your Doors and Windows

Most burglaries are crimes of opportunity. A weak lock, an unlocked door, or a flimsy window latch can be an open invitation. In a city like Tucson, where many homes have a blend of older and newer construction, the quality of your door and window security can vary greatly.

Door Locks: A basic doorknob lock is often not enough. For a primary entry point, a deadbolt is essential. A good deadbolt extends at least an inch into the doorframe and is made of solid metal. It's a simple, affordable upgrade that provides a significant boost in security.
Sliding Glass Doors: Tucson homes often feature sliding glass doors that lead to a backyard or patio. These can be a point of vulnerability. In addition to the standard lock, consider using a security bar or a dowel rod in the track to prevent the door from being forced open.
Window Locks: Check that all your windows have working, secure locks. For ground-floor windows, an additional security measure, like a simple pin lock or a window alarm, can provide extra protection.

Beyond the Lock and Key: Smart Security Solutions

Technology has revolutionized home security, and Tucson residents have a wide range of smart options to choose from. These tools not only deter potential criminals but also give you more control and visibility over your home, no matter where you are.

Smart Locks: These devices allow you to lock and unlock your doors remotely using your smartphone. You can also grant temporary access to a guest or a service provider without having to give them a physical key. This is perfect for when a friend is house-sitting or a repair person needs to get in while you're at work.
Keyless Entry Systems: Keypads and key fobs eliminate the need for a traditional key, meaning there's one less thing to lose. This is a great solution for busy families or anyone who wants a more streamlined way to enter their home.
Home Automation: Integrating your locks with a broader smart home system allows for advanced features like automated door locking at a set time or a notification every time a door is opened.

Rekeying and Professional Maintenance

Sometimes, the security issue isn't a faulty lock—it's a missing key. If you lose a key, the stress can be immense. Do you know who might have found it? The safest and most effective solution is to rekey your locks. This process involves changing the internal pins of the lock cylinder so that a new key is needed to open it, rendering all previous keys useless.

A skilled locksmith can rekey all the locks in your home to a single key, making your life easier while also enhancing your security. It’s also a smart move to rekey when you move into a new house, as you never know who might have copies of the old keys.

Regular maintenance is also key. A locksmith can inspect your locks for signs of wear and tear, lubricate mechanisms, and ensure everything is functioning correctly to prevent a failure when you need it most.

Taking the Next Step

A secure home is a protected home, and it’s a foundational element of feeling safe in your community. By taking a few practical steps—like upgrading your locks, considering smart technology, and using the services of a trusted local locksmith for rekeying and maintenance—you can feel confident that you're doing everything you can to protect your property and your family. For all your home security needs in Tucson, finding a reputable and experienced professional is the best investment you can make.