YOUR LOCKSMITH

by
MICHEL PICHÉ
vice-president,
J.Piché & Fils inc.

You must have versatility, know-how and resourcefulness to be a locksmith today. Long ago, a locksmith only made and repaired mechanical locks using keys. He also created and copied keys. But the actual evolution we enjoy today began with the launching of combination locking devices that have transformed a locksmith's expertise into a real security vocation.

What a locksmith does, in effect, is to install and repair hardware and components which are inserted into doors and frames. His daily responsibilities include the installation of hinges, recall cylinders (for automatic door closing) keepers, and locks with their corresponding extra latches, nuts and bolts for added security. Needless to say, each job is performed in accordance with all current codes and regulations.

Other apertures of the building are not excluded. Whether the window is French, swinging, sliding, rotating, Venetian, or sash, there exists a large variety of locks on the market which can lock it securely. Light shafts, which offer an extra entrance venue to thieves, also have their range of security hardware. Perfectly- fitted iron grilles are the ultimate protection for windows. However, one must be certain that they are not obstructed, in case of emergency.

Furniture can also be locked. There exists a host of products for that special purpose. Thanks to a large choice of available shapes and colours, these devices respect both the look and style of all pieces of furniture. A locksmith is a priceless counsellor in this matter.

To secure fences and irregular openings, all you need is a good padlock. But when purchasing one, pay serious attention to the quality of its construction and the strength of the chain: it must offer the same resistance as the padlock itself. Why spend a hundred dollars for a good padlock when the chain that's connected to it can be cut with a nail file?


PRE-REQUISITE:
PROFESSIONALISM

When the time comes to fill an order, you have to prove that you can not only install a lock into a surface, but also to penetrate a door right through its "structure" in order to insert a deadbolt type of lock. Let us emphasize that the job has to be completed "on location" - where the door is.

The key-copying process depends entirely on the locksmith's honesty and sense of responsibility. Controlcard checking and owner's combination registering are the very basis of the system accompanying all top- notch products. It's not sufficient to sell only keys and locks. Rules established by manufacturers also have to be followed and respected. Success in our trade relies upon both the quality of the product and the professionalism of the locksmith.


THE WORK

One must consider the aesthetics as well as the finishing touches. Hardware components need to be installed according to the rules. This means they are required to be perfectly parallel, level and performing according to intention. Sometimes the entire door must be adjusted to obtain a satisfactory result. A competent locksmith must be equipped to combine and modify locks, and also to prepare cylinders for master key adaptability. Such is his daily aim.


THE LOSS OF KEYS

It is also a specialty of the trade to be able to open a door without a key. This operation is performed by a professional who has learned how to use a lock pick. The skeleton key that he uses does not just appear "out of the blue" or by magic. That is why it is no surprise to learn that, on such occasion, a locksmith always asks for proof of residence or ownership. A true professional insists on doing these verifications.

The precision work performed by a locksmith guarantees the efficiency of secure, modern installations. It's the ''key'' to our success!


ADVICE

Hyde-a-key is a box that is specially conceived to conceal a second key, an anti-theft system, a graffiti eraser, etc.


PROTECT YOURSELF

In La Presse, Wednesday, December 20 2000, one reads that Montreal is now the theft capital. With three times the number of thefts as exists in Toronto, and a rate that is 26% higher than in the U.S., all Quebecers must obviously protect themselves adequately. It is thus highly imprudent and unwise to purchase a lockset at the supermarket or a cheap lock just anywhere at a low price.

Piché's specialists will advise you only once, but you'll be protected long-term. Today, when people are living alone more and more, do you think it's really worth the consequences of neglecting to protect oneself properly?