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What if your front door, which is supposed to be the bulwark of your home, isn't as reliable as you might think? Many people think that leaving the key straight in the lock is enough to discourage prying eyes. However, a simple detail could make all the difference. And few people think about this detail...
Why leaving the key upright can be a problem
It's often believed that simply sliding a key into the lock is enough to prevent any break-in attempt. In reality, it's quite the opposite: a tool inserted into the opening can push the key back and release the mechanism in seconds . The result? A door that opens effortlessly and quietly.
It's a bit like leaving your umbrella half-open in windy weather : instead of protecting, it becomes fragile.
The quarter turn technique
A locksmith, known online as Brummie Lock Picker , has shared a simple trick that can make it harder for burglars to break in: turn the key slightly once it's in the lock.
Why does this gesture work?
Because in the half-turned position, the key blocks the lock's internal system. It's then impossible for an external tool to push it back without forcing it. And forcing means more time and more noise ...exactly what burglars are trying to avoid.
A clever trick, but not infallible
Be careful, however: this quarter turn does not transform your door into a safe. Some Internet users rightly point out that burglars often use much more direct methods: a fragile window, a poorly locked door, or even a door left ajar.
That said, making their task a little more complicated can be enough to discourage them. Just like in cooking: if the recipe has too many steps, we often end up giving up. It's the same here: the more obstacles there are, the fewer temptations there are.
Keeping the key in the door: an asset in case of emergency
Beyond security, having a key in the lock can also save lives. In the event of a fire or gas leak, being able to immediately open your door without panicking and searching for keys is a valuable advantage . Some people who have experienced this type of situation say that this reflex has saved them precious seconds.
But here again, the quarter turn remains essential: the key must be well positioned to avoid transforming this reflex into an additional risk.
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