IN West Jefferson Hills Spring 2018 | Page 15

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

HOME SAFETY

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Should You Install Electronic Door Locks ?

home ’ s door , while others will automatically unlock your door when you approach it .
Keypad locks — These entry systems require you to program an entry code . Though newer , the more complex models may allow you to have individual codes for specific people or even program a greeting that will play when the door is unlocked .

As our lives get more high-tech , there is another feature of your home that may one day go the way of the typewriter : your house key .

From fingerprint sensors to Bluetooth and Wi-Fienabled systems , keyless entry products are rapidly transforming the way Americans secure their homes .
These keyless systems may not be for everyone , particularly those who are not comfortable with technology .
However if you are tech-savvy , these keyless entry systems add another layer of home protection that ’ s not available from a typical door . And you don ’ t have to ever worry about losing your keys again .
Are these easy-access locks the right choice for you ? If you have no problem programming your DVR , universal remote and household thermostat , a keyless lock may be a good option . Here are some of the technologies currently on the market : Biometric fingerprint recognition — This is “ the latest and greatest ” keyless entry technology . Biometric locks recognize your fingerprint , allowing you to unlock your home with a swipe of your finger . This type of keyless lock requires you to program it with your fingerprint as well as those of the rest of your family , and any others you want to allow to access your home .
Keyless deadbolts — These are less expensive than the fingerprint entry system . They are very dependable and also offer keyed entry alongside the digital keypad for added peace of mind in case you forget your code .
Keyless remote door locks — These systems don ’ t require keys or codes that you can forget . They include a fob similar to ones that you use for opening your vehicle . Using RFID technology , the door will open with the press of a button .
Smartphone-controlled locks — These locks sync with your mobile phone via Bluetooth . This allows you to control entry to your home remotely as well as track who is coming and going . Some of these locks will text you when someone else opens your
Cusumano Insurance , a local family-owned business , has been serving the Pittsburgh area since 1958 . The agency represents several insurance companies offering various options for your personal and business insurance needs . Its experienced staff are creative problem solvers who help find the suitable insurance companies , products and discounts to meet your specific needs . Give them a call today for a free insurance review .
This Industry Insight was provided by :
Joann Cusumano Sciulli , AAI Agency Principal
Rosann Cusumano Elinsky , AAI , LUTCF Agency Principal
Cusumano Insurance Agency , Inc . • 178 Clairton Blvd . • Pleasant Hills , PA 15236
COSTS AND SECURITY
Prices for electronic door locks range from $ 100 to more than $ 1,000 , depending on the type of lock and features included . While they can make entering and exiting your home easier — unless there ’ s a power outage or the circuit board fails — they aren ’ t necessarily more secure than traditional keyed locks .
Burglars generally enter homes through unlocked doors or windows , or by forcing open a window or door .
If security is your main concern , you ’ re probably better off investing in solid wood or steel exterior doors rather than the latest electronic lock technology . Door jambs reinforced with steel plates will also make it more difficult for an intruder to kick in the door .
Whether you opt for traditional keys or a new , high-tech electronic lock for your home , you should make sure you are properly insured for a break-in . If you don ’ t have homeowner ’ s or renter ’ s coverage , call us .
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Sponsored by Trusted Choice Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina
To learn more about protecting your family , home or business , visit www . TrustedChoice . com . Cusumano Insurance Agency
178 Clairton Blvd ( Rt 51 ) | Pittsburgh PA 15236 ( 412 ) 655-4432 contactus @ cusumanoinsurance . com www . cusumanoinsurance . com Like us on Facebook
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