Leaving a spare key outside your house might seem convenient, especially if you live in a busy area like West Palm Beach or have guests coming and going. However, this common practice can pose security risks if not handled carefully. From understanding where burglars commonly look for keys to exploring safer alternatives, here’s a comprehensive look at spare key safety and effective strategies to keep your home secure.
Should You Hide a Key Outside?
The idea of hiding a spare key outside is tempting for many. Whether you frequently forget your keys or have family members who need access when you’re away, having a spare key hidden outside seems like a practical solution. However, before deciding to hide a key outside your home, consider that this practice is generally discouraged by locksmiths and security experts. The main reason is simple: burglars know the typical hiding spots. With this knowledge, they can gain easy access to your home in a matter of seconds.
That said, if you are set on hiding a spare key outside, there are ways to improve security by choosing less obvious hiding spots or using specialized security devices. Remember, however, that even with clever hiding tactics, hiding a key outside the house is rarely 100% secure.
Common Places Burglars Look for Keys
When hiding a key outside, you should be aware of the locations that burglars typically check first. Here are some of the most common hiding spots—and why you should avoid them:
- Under the Doormat: This is perhaps the first place anyone would check. It’s a classic spot that may seem convenient but is too predictable to be secure.
- In a Flower Pot or Garden Decoration: Burglars know that people often tuck keys under pots, garden gnomes, or other decorations near the entrance. Though these may seem like good hiding places, they are often within plain view.
- In the Mailbox: While it may seem inconspicuous, placing your key in the mailbox is risky. The mailbox is accessible to anyone, including mail carriers, delivery personnel, and unfortunately, potential intruders.
- Under Rocks Near the Door: Just like the flower pot idea, hiding keys under rocks is a well-known strategy. Burglars are familiar with this hiding place and may inspect rocks or small statues for hidden keys.
- Inside Fake Rocks: Many people believe fake rocks designed to hide keys are secure, but this option is very common and predictable. Fake rocks tend to look noticeably different from real ones, making them easy for burglars to spot.
Safe Alternatives to Hiding a Key Outside
Given the risks, here are some safer alternatives that keep your spare key secure without compromising your home’s safety:
- Give a Spare Key to a Trusted Neighbor: This is one of the safest ways to manage key security. Select a trustworthy neighbor who is also accessible. In a community like West Palm Beach, you may find reliable neighbors who can hold onto the key, allowing you access without the risk of leaving it outside.
- Use a Key Safe: A key safe or lockbox is a small, secure container mounted to a wall near your door. These safes require a combination to open, offering a secure place to store a spare key. Lockboxes are widely recommended by locksmiths as they add an extra layer of security.
- Install a Smart Lock: Smart locks allow you to access your home without needing a physical key. Many smart locks operate with a passcode or smartphone app, making them a convenient option. This eliminates the need to hide a key outside entirely and provides greater control over who can enter your home.
- Leave a Key with a Nearby Friend or Family Member: This option works well if you have friends or family members living close by. It gives you a backup plan without the risks associated with hiding a key on your property.
- Use Temporary Digital Access Codes: If you have a digital lock or smart lock that allows for temporary codes, you can provide friends, family members, or trusted service providers with a code. Temporary codes can be changed or deleted after a set time, allowing controlled access.
Tips for Safely Storing Keys Inside Your Home
Apart from hiding spare keys outside, storing keys securely inside your home is equally important. Here are some key security tips to protect your keys indoors:
- Avoid Leaving Keys in the Door: Leaving your key in the door might feel convenient, but it poses a risk, especially if your door has glass panels. An intruder could break the glass, reach in, and unlock the door from the inside. Store keys out of sight from any windows or entry points to enhance security.
- Designate a Specific Spot for Your Keys: Inside your home, set up a specific spot for your keys. Key hooks, small dishes, or lockable cabinets near your entryway are all good options. Keeping keys organized reduces the chances of misplacing them and keeps them within reach without compromising security.
- Use a Lockable Key Cabinet: If you have multiple sets of keys, a lockable key cabinet is a good investment. It not only organizes your keys but keeps them safe from intruders or visitors who should not have access to certain areas.
- Keep Keys Away from Windows: Avoid storing keys on tables or shelves near windows. Burglars could break a window and reach for keys, allowing them easy access to your home. Place keys in areas that aren’t visible from outside.
Secure Places to Store a Key Outside, If Necessary
If you absolutely need to hide a key outside, some less obvious places can reduce the risk of discovery. Remember, however, that no hiding spot is completely foolproof, so proceed with caution:
- Behind a Loose Brick or Stone: If your home has a brick or stone wall, you might be able to place a key behind a loose brick or stone, provided it blends well with the rest of the structure. This location is less obvious but should still be used carefully.
- Under a Backyard Decoration: Choose a decoration or fixture far from the main entrance, such as a birdbath or garden ornament. Placing the key away from entry points reduces the chances of it being found by someone looking for easy access.
- Inside a Lockbox in the Shed: If you have a locked shed or garage, consider hiding a key inside. This option provides an added layer of protection since intruders would need to break into the shed before accessing your house key.
- Underneath Outdoor Furniture: While not foolproof, some people hide a spare key underneath heavy, difficult-to-move outdoor furniture. Avoid making this spot obvious and use it only as a last resort.
Avoiding the Risks of Hiding Keys Outside
It’s crucial to be proactive about spare key safety, especially if you live in a populated or high-traffic area like West Palm Beach. Always consider the consequences of hiding a key outside and weigh the risk against convenience. Even the best hiding places could be discovered by a determined burglar.
To maximize security:
- Regularly change any access codes if using a smart lock.
- Avoid storing a spare key outside for extended periods.
- Periodically check that the hiding spot remains secure and isn’t exposed by environmental factors like rain, wind, or landscaping changes.
Locksmith Advice for Spare Key Safety
Consulting a local locksmith can provide you with tailored advice for your specific situation. Locksmiths, especially those familiar with West Palm Beach neighborhoods, understand common security vulnerabilities and can recommend solutions suited to your home.
Professional locksmiths suggest that key security isn’t just about where you hide a key but also about considering alternative, more secure access methods. In many cases, investing in quality security technology can save you from the stress and risk of hiding a spare key outdoors.
Conclusion: Secure Your Home with Smart Key Management
Hiding a key outside can be risky, especially if done carelessly. Understanding the balance between convenience and security is essential for homeowners everywhere. While certain hiding spots are more secure than others, the best approach is to minimize outdoor hiding altogether by exploring alternatives like key safes, digital access systems, or enlisting the help of a trusted neighbor.
By following these key security tips and being mindful of where and how you store spare keys, you can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and enjoy peace of mind in your home. Keeping your home safe often starts with simple, smart decisions around managing and securing your keys.
Trusted Locksmith Services in West Palm Beach
For residents and businesses in West Palm Beach, Door N Key provides reliable and professional locksmith services tailored to your security needs. With over 20 years of experience, we offer expert advice on spare key safety, secure storage options, and top-notch solutions for key security concerns. Whether you need assistance with automotive, residential, or commercial locksmith services, or want to upgrade your home’s security with advanced lock systems, our skilled team is ready to help. Contact us today at (561) 510-4642 for prompt, dependable locksmith solutions that keep your property safe.