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 | Key Control |
The most important fact to remember about keys is to keep them "safe and out of circulation". What does "circulation" mean; it's the hands of others. Have you recently taken your car in for service, valet parked, or run it through a carwash? Have you given a copy of your key to a housekeeper, a service technician, childcare provider, or lent your car to a friend? These are all potential ways theft could occur with unauthorized use of your keys. "Keys made here", remember that convenient sign on every corner, everywhere from hardware stores to shoe repair shops, have you ever been asked for identification when duplicating a key? Anyone can simply write down the code stamped on your keys and have copies made. Even the most secure lock is useless if someone else has a copy of your key.
 | Helpful Tips: |
 | KEEP TRACK OF YOUR KEYS |
| | Be selective when you hand your keys to others, this includes home and business keys. |
| | When having service done or valet parking, only leave the attendant with the appropriate car key(s). |
| | Do not include personal information such as name and address on identifying tags with your keys. |
| | Re-key locks when keys have been lost or stolen. |
| | Upon move in of a new house or apartment, have all locks changed. |
| | Do not leave spare keys in obvious places, such as under flowerpots or welcome mats, give a spare key to a trusted friend or neighbor. |
| | Make sure all doors located near windows have double cylinder locks installed to prevent intruders from breaking the window and turning the latch to gain entrance. |
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