The winter months can cause all types of problems for your business, including security issues. When the freezing weather hinders your ability to use locks and keys, it's up to an emergency locksmith to alleviate the situation. The following five issues can happen to your business during the winter months. Being aware of them and having a locksmith ready will help you get past the issues as soon as possible.

Frozen Locks

One of the more common problems found in the winter are frozen locks. Even if you apply hot water to the locks, the mechanisms and parts inside could still jam. This is where a professional locksmith comes in. A locksmith has special heating tools and coils to defrost the lock and give you access to your business or company car without causing additional damage.

A locksmith emergency line can help you early in the morning when you are trying to open up your business for the day. Dealing with a frozen lock could create huge delays, and a locksmith will help you gain access a lot sooner.

Snapped Keys

Along with frozen locks, forcing a key into a lock can cause it to easily snap. The snapped half of the key often remains inside the lock and is nearly impossible to remove. When a locksmith is called, they can complete multiple options. They can remove the broken half of the key and make you a new copy. The locksmith also has the option of removing the lock completely and installing a new lock for you.

Lock Security

During the cold months, any wooden doors on your business will likely constrict and seem looser on the frame. This is due to a lack of humidity. During the warm months, the wooden doors typically expand and can shut more tightly in the frame.

If any of your wooden doors appear looser, this can create a security problem for your business. A locksmith can help mediate the problem by installing new hinges and secure locks and by preventing access through any larger cracks or holes in the door frame. If the door is not shutting or clicking closed, the locksmith should come as soon as possible so your business is not vulnerable.

Outdoor Lock & Security Technology

Gaining access to your building could be done a number of different ways including keys or key cards. During freezing weather, this technology can be hindered and not work properly. A locksmith can upgrade your technology to help protect the current lock system or to install a completely new system catered to extreme temperatures. The insulated lock boxes and systems can withstand all types of temperatures and will allow your business to have the ultimate protection.

Key Accessories

During the winter months, there are a number of different accessories you can purchase directly from a locksmith to help avoid emergency situations. These accessories should be stored at your home or a company vehicle so you can easily retrieve them.

• Hot Keys: These small devices help melt off a little ice around the edge of a lock. This is ideal for both vehicles and business exteriors.
• Bulky Keys: Purchase key copies that are strong and thick. This will help you turn locks easier and prevent snapped keys at your business. The locksmith can even cut the keys so everything is taken care of at one location.
• Window De-Icer: Prevent window locks from getting jammed with a Window De-Icer. This can also help prevent any cracks or ice-build up during the cold months.

It's a good idea to set up a relationship with your locksmith before you need emergency services. This can help the process go quickly and get them accustomed to your business location.