Dixie Safe and Lock – Security Tips
There are many aspects to consider when implementing a security plan for your property. Borrow from Dixie Safe and Lock's 37 years of security industry knowledge when keeping your property safe.
Benefit from the following tips that only come with decades of experience:
- If you find a locksmith in the phone book, on the Internet, or through directory assistance, and a business address is given, confirm that the address belongs to that locksmith. Some disreputable companies list street addresses to give the impression that they're local. But the addresses may belong to other businesses or vacant lots, if they exist at all. You can verify addresses through websites that allow you to match phone numbers with street addresses. Some legitimate locksmith companies may not include a street address in their listing either because they operate a "mobile" business or they operate their business out of their home and may be reluctant to list that address. If you call a locksmith who doesn't list an address, ask why. If the answer is that it's a "mobile" business, you will understand they have no storefront.
- Write down the names of several businesses, their phone numbers, and addresses for future reference, in case you don't want to go with the first locksmith you call.
- If a company answers the phone with a generic phrase like "locksmith services" rather than a company-specific name, be wary. Ask for the legal name of the business. If the person refuses, call another locksmith.
- Get an estimate for all work and replacement parts from the locksmith before work begins. In cases of "lock-outs" (being locked out of your business or home), most legitimate locksmiths will give you an estimate on the phone for the total cost of the work.
- Ask about additional fees before you agree to have the locksmith perform the work. Companies may charge extra for responding to a call in the middle of the night. Ask if there is a charge for mileage, or a minimum fee for a service call.
- If the price the locksmith provides when he arrives doesn't match with the estimate you got on the telephone, do not allow the work to be done.
- Never sign a blank form authorizing work.
- Find out if the locksmith is insured. If your property is damaged during a repair, or if faulty work leads to loss or damage, it's important for the locksmith to have insurance to cover your losses.
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When the locksmith arrives, ask for identification, including a business card and, where applicable, a locksmith license. Dixie Safe and Lock Service, Inc.'s is licensed with the State of Texas. Our license number is B02418.
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Nine states require locksmiths to be licensed:
- Alabama,
- Californira,
- Illinois,
- Louisiana,
- New Jersey,
- North Carolina,
- Oklahoma,
- Tennessee and
- Texas.
- In addition to a business card, check to see if the invoice includes the company's name and license number, and whether the locksmith's vehicle has the same name and license number as reflected on the business card, invoice, and/or bill. In the State of Texas, all company vehicles and invoices must have the state-registered license number indicated on it.
- Expect the locksmith to ask you for identification, as well. A legitimate locksmith should confirm your identity and make sure you're the property owner before doing any work.
- In the case of a lock-out, be cautious if you're told up front that the lock has to be drilled and replaced. An experienced legitimate locksmith has invested in the tools and education to provide quality service, and can unlock almost any door.
- After the work is completed, get an itemized invoice that covers parts, labor, mileage, and the price of the service call.