Once again, everybody here at Aim Lock & Safe would like to wish you a very Happy New Year.
With 2016 behind us, our first blog of 2017 looks at the emerging safety trends and products when it comes to your business, home and car.
So if you’ve been thinking about security improvements, here are the top features expected for this year.
Access control
In 2016, commercial access control was an emerging security option for companies of all sizes and types.
And that trend is expected to continue – and grow – in 2017.
Businesses ranging from mom-and-pop shops to manufacturing warehouses to retail chains are installing more sophisticated (yet still easy-to-use) access control systems such as:
- Swipe cards: An efficient and affordable option to secure a building or entry way; also a reliable alternative to commercial door locks and keys.
- Security fobs: Fobs are convenient and durable. They’re meant to last a long time and can even be used when inside other items (like a purse or wallet).
- Commercial wireless releases: Integrating things like doorbells, phone access, buzzers or intercom, commercial wireless releases keeps track of who’s walking in or out.
So, why will access control be incredibly popular in 2017?
Because unlike door locks or cut or copied keys, commercial access control lets you monitor things like:
- Each individual (employee, customer, supplier, etc.) who enters and exits your facility
- How much time they spent there
- Where/what areas they accessed and when
Commercial security access control systems deliver more information and peace of mind; something any business owner wants in 2017.
Bluetooth locking systems
In 2017, everything seems automated by technology:
Starting your car (without using automotive keys)
Getting directions on your smartphone
Setting the thermostat in your house
And in 2017, it looks like padlocks, door locks and hardware and even home safes will join the Bluetooth revolution.
However, Bluetooth locking systems are much different than, say, your home computer.
For example, your laptop only need be connected to a Wi-Fi network and router.
On the other hand, a Bluetooth locking system is just that; a complete, end-to-end working system.
Bluetooth locks require (at minimum):
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- A full security system
- A device that has the power and capacity to run the system (your old iPhone may not cut it)
Bluetooth locks are a much more sophisticated pairing system than something like your phone and wireless earpiece.
But how they operate is, more or less, the same.
As soon as you approach the lock, it automatically opens for you. No key control solution (or keychain, really) needed.
Bluetooth locks started gaining traction and popularity in 2016.
But they’re expected to become more popular for homeowners (and business owners too).
Accessibility compliance
In 2005, the Ontario government passed the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
That was over 10 years ago.
The act becomes law in 2025.
That’s less than 10 years from now.
Business owners are ensuring their facilities are compliant well in advance of the law coming into effect by:
Participating in accessibility training
Installing commercial handicap door operators wherever applicable
Creating accessibility policies
Booking security consultations to improve both safety and accessibility
Companies from Milton to Cambridge, Kitchener & Waterloo (and everywhere in between) are being proactive (especially in the past few years) by having a commercial locksmith install accessibility products.
Remote control car alarm systems
In 2017, from your car alarm key fob, you can:
Kill the engine from an unwanted start from over 1 kilometre away
Sense when someone is approaching or trying to open its doors
Start the car remotely without needing a traditional key
Sync your alarm to your smartphone
Receive text messages when the car alarm sounds
Know when your car has been lifted off the ground to be towed or jacked
That’s a long way from just having a panic on/off button feature.
Contact us for all your 2017 security needs
Whether you need a commercial safe for your business or a modern, complete hardware installation, we can help.
After all, our team has been securing homes and business since 1986. We’ve seen and mastered every new trend there is.
So whatever you need, we’ve got you covered.
Start by contacting us for a FREE consultation.
