I have been working this weekend on some potentially new study guides and test revisions that we could use at Bellingham Technical College to prepare students to learn the basics and to work in the field of home inspection. This is associated with the state approved fundamentals of home inspection training program that is offered through Bellingham Technical College several times a year. I thought that some of the Active Rain people might like to give this sample question a try. This deadbolt lock, interior view, is on a door that provides egress at a private residence. Of the choices below, which is the best statement about this lock? A. it provides good security B. these keyed deadbolts are mandatory per code C. it is a safety hazard D. the lock is easy to pick, so a security risk Which answer will you go for? Inspectors might do us a favor and pass on answering this one, as it is pretty basic. Thanks for stopping by, Steven L. Smith
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I'll take "C"... it's a safety hazard.
If the key is left in it (as many people do)..a burglar can break the glass, reach in and turn the key.
If the key ISN'T left in... (and perhaps hung on the wall nearby), it can take precious seconds to find the key, insert it and open the lock in the case of, let's say... a fire... where those precious seconds can be critical.
Changing the lockset to a "non-keyed" version... and changing the "glass" to a non-breakable polymer (or solid door) would be a better idea, in my viewpoint.
Alan,
That is the correct answer and your logic is good.
Charlie,
Nutsy is putting together a locksmithing class for dummies. I think that, after you complete it, assuming you can get in, you will be able to answer this with more confidence. That dumb bird might want to sign up too.
Looks to me like the Nutsy one has got your number.
Who's that foul talking fowl that Charlie B has rounded up?
Barbara,
The poor guy just is attracted to fowl trash. He is into fowl.
I was going to say "C" also. Nutsy needs to clean up this fowl talking post.
C-When the kids decide to hide the key and start a fire, let's hope only Nutsy is trapped inside.
Also, D, kind of. To "pick" the lock, break the window on the door and reach inside for the key. But if you do, watch out for a rabid squirrel. I hear his bite is worse than his squeal.
I would go with all but B, unless the key is within reach, then A does not work. Still, the glass is breakable.
That is a bumpable lockset. Don't use them!
Remember my post on bump keys?
False sense of security, and a possible safety hazard....
Besides the buyers of any home should change the locks regardless. Never know who has a key out there.
And finally it does not matter how strong the locks are on the front door, when window panes can be easily removed within just minutes, or broken in seconds.