DOM door hardware now with a ‘Silver Lining’

Today, implementing hygiene regimes and social distancing has become the new norm for society. Door handles and knobs are the most frequently touched surfaces in a building and are considered one of the worst areas to harbour harmful microbes.

DOM security is renowned for introducing products that are sustainable and to take our products one-step further adding our antimicrobial panic bars, digital handles, and digital cylinders.

We are pleased to announce that DOM has joined forces with Sanpura (antimicrobial technology provider) along with Gbneuhaus and Inver. These organisations are specialists in their field and are now supplying DOM with nano-silver ion technology, which is applied to the DOM Guard digital door handle. Pro digital cylinder and Panic hardware. Silver is a natural antimicrobial and is proven to prevent the growth and spread of many known micro-organisms, preventing up to 99.9% protection against bacteria, mould, and viruses.

Behind the science

Once contact is made with our antimicrobial range of door hardware, the slow and constant release of silver ions will react with the bacteria, preventing it from multiplying and eventually killing the micro-organism. This microbe-resistant technology will be applied to critical areas such as handles, doorknobs and handlebars.

By installing DOM Security’s antimicrobial range, facilities manager and building owners will be playing their part in protecting individuals by reducing the risk of cross-contamination and suppressing the infection level of common bacteria and viruses. Our products are suitable for all environments, especially hospitals, care homes, housing associations, leisure, education commercial office space, and the hospitality industry.

“Practising hygiene habits are essential”, comments National Sales Manager Mr Lloyd Chitty, “specifying our antimicrobial range into shared areas can help provide an added level of protection in addition to regular cleaning regimes.”

Are you interested in investing in these products to better equip your environment against harmful micro-organism? Contact your DOM UK sales representatives for more information on 0121 569 7790 or email us on sales@dom-co.uk

Codelocks’ expanding product range opens up new uses for digital and smart locks

Codelocks has been designing digital locks for over 15 years, and in 2019 was declared Keyless Entry Company of the Year by the National Locksmith Awards. In recent years, it has been adding smart locks to its growing range, combining the convenience of keyless operation with the extra control and functionality afforded by smart technology.

Its latest addition to the KitLock by Codelocks range is the KL1100 RFID. It is designed for lockers and cabinets, and highlights many of the advantages afforded by digital locks. With Remote Card Authorisation (RCA), a facilities manager can remotely manage cards from a computer using the Codelocks Card Management Client software (CCMC) and up to 250 locks within a lock group.

The KL1100 is suitable for both private and public lockers. In Private Function mode, the lock can only be opened with a card that has been registered with that lock – either by using the CCMC software or a standalone keypad programmer that can be bought separately. This gives staff or customers convenient and secure access to their own private locker. In Public Function mode, an operator can lock the KL1100 with any compatible card, and then unlock it with the same card. It is then ready for the next user – an ideal solution for shared facilities such as gyms and leisure centres.

Added features of the KL1100 include a block card and an audit card. The block card allows a facilities manager to quickly block and unblock users from accessing specific locks, while the audit card lets them easily upload a lock’s audit data to the CCMC platform. The KL1100 can also be set to open after a set period of time. This is useful for ensuring fair use where there is heavy demand for a limited supply of lockers. And for situations where extra security is required, there is a Dual Authorisation mode, where two authorised users must present a card to open the lock.

Codelocks also recently introduced its new Access range of standalone door controllers, opening up the benefits of keyless and digital locks for a wider range of applications. The card controlled A3 RFID, keypad controlled A3 Dual and A3 Vandal Resist door controllers are ideal for situations where doors and gates are locked magnetically or with electric strikes. One handy built-in feature of the Access range is the panic code or panic card. In the event of a client being forced to open a door against their will, they can enter a unique code, or present a unique card, which allows entry but also triggers an alarm. This functionality is an example of the way Codelocks designs its locks around the end user’s needs, always looking to provide the right solution for the customer.

When Porsche Centre Preston was looking for an adaptable, easy-to-use access control system, enabling its staff to easily programme locks accordingly for employee and customer access, the CL5500 smart lock range fitted the bill perfectly.

Codelocks’ Smart Locks range offers the ultimate in flexibility and control. These benefits are important for Porsche Centre, as it is able to restrict access to certain areas quickly and efficiently, ensuring cars and equipment are always secure. It also helps to reduce the operational costs of hiring a security service, and assists with the management of visitor, staff and delivery driver access.

Paul Pasquali, Group Operations Manager at Porsche Centre Preston explains, “As a prestige automotive retailer, the business needs an access control system that offers the utmost peace of mind. The unique entry codes, design of the lock and the ability to control access at certain times is very beneficial to us, especially as the vehicles and equipment on site are of such high value.”

Codelocks’ Smart Locks utilise wireless technology giving users the ability to connect remotely and choose between pushbutton code, smart card or smartphone access. NetCode is Codelocks smart way to generate and send codes for easy access. Through Codelocks online NetCode portal or via the Codelocks Application Programming Interface (API), you can create codes that have a specified start date, time and duration that will automatically expire. By automating code generation, the need for onsite staff is dramatically reduced. Businesses can recognise new levels of convenience without compromising on security.

 

 

Abloy launches mobile digital key and extremely weatherproof Bluetooth padlock

Announced today, the new ABLOY® BEAT locking solution includes a novel digital key, a mobile app and an IP68-rated, weatherproof Bluetooth padlock. The future-proof solution is designed to boost operational efficiency while securing critical infrastructure, commercial institutions and industry sites. ABLOY BEAT is managed with the visual ABLOY® OS user interface.

Finland-based security and locking solutions provider Abloy today unveiled its newest innovation in digital keys, the ABLOY BEAT. The new keyless solution combines three main components: a digital

key, a mobile application and a heavy-duty, Bluetooth padlock. All is managed with the visual ABLOY OS user interface.

Among businesses worldwide, there is a growing need for the convenience and accessibility of highly secure keyless access solutions – either as an addition to existing workflows or as a standalone solution. Especially in remote areas or situations where carrying a physical key can bring the possibility of corruption or even danger for the holder, a mobile solution is also in demand.

“BEAT is part of the ongoing ‘keyvolution’, heralding a new era of effortless connectivity, without a physical key. Yet there are no keyless locks. The key has just taken on some new forms. Leveraging on our heritage and expertise in high-level security, we have built a new digital key. It is encrypted with the most advanced Seos® credential technology, developed by HID Global. Used with your mobile device, the digital key provides best-in-class security and privacy protection,” said Jorma Issakainen, Vice President, ABLOY Critical Infrastructure.

Combining a digital key with a heavy-duty Bluetooth padlock

BEAT is designed especially for professional physical protection of critical infrastructure, businesses and industry sites. While securing property, it also offers customers improved operational efficiency, reducing both logistics and costs. It also saves on fuel emissions, making it a sustainable option. The solution is intended to be used in sectors like telecom and data centers, transportation and logistics, utilities (water, electricity, gas) and mining.

The digital BEAT key connects to the physical heavy-duty, Bluetooth padlock, designed to perform in harsh environments and remote areas. The padlock has an IP68 protection rating, a case-hardened steel body and LED indications for lock status. It complements the current ABLOY® SUPER WEATHER PROOF range of padlocks.

Future-ready to meet changing security needs

BEAT can be integrated with existing security workflow solutions in use, but it can also be implemented as a standalone locking solution with ABLOY OS. ABLOY OS enables managing keys, locks, and access rights on-the-go and remotely from a single, easy-to-use and highly visual interface.

BEAT is the latest addition to Abloy’s comprehensive and evolving digital portfolio of future-ready security and access control solutions. The news announced today is the first phase of the BEAT solution, and the company plans to unveil new features in the future.

With today’s launch the ABLOY digital portfolio now includes both keyless (BEAT), electromechanical (PROTEC2 CLIQ) and mechanical (ABLOY® PROTEC2) options. All options, including the mechanical PROTEC2, can in the near future be managed with the same ABLOY OS interface. ABLOY Competence Centers, sales units and distributors on six continents provide customers with technical expertise, professional service and support.

Starting from today, ABLOY BEAT will be made available globally in stages. It will be showcased on international trade shows such as Expo Seguridad (Mexico) in April, ISC Brasil (Brazil) in June, ISC West (USA) in July, as well as IFSEC International (UK) and GSX (USA) in September. Samples will also be available for examination at ABLOY distribution offices.

Follow ABLOY social media channels and Abloy.com for the latest information about upcoming events and market areas for ABLOY BEAT

Making the most of the great outdoors

Homeowners’ desire to make the most of their outdoor space combined with the increase in popularity and affordability of simple to install and use “Smart” security solutions means that selling video surveillance, wireless alarm and doorbell systems is a growing market opportunity for many installers.

Video surveillance systems are an increasingly popular part of customers’ security plans, used as both a visual deterrent and for gathering vital evidence.  The BurgCam Wi-Fi range offers a choice of outdoor zoom, dome, bullet and indoor cameras, all providing the ability to record directly onto an SD card and use as standalone units.  Super HD 2K resolution and the option to pair up to 6 cameras with a network recorder makes the BURGcam Wi-Fi range perfect for most home, small business & retail installations.

The easy to use BURGcam app provides real-time monitoring feed on smartphones, tablets and PCs.  It also allows pan, tilt and zoom control on the Zoom camera.  Together with the configurable notifications and alerts facility, this video surveillance system lets customers keep an eye on their property through their smartphone, whilst they’re relaxing in their garden.  It’s also worth considering installing external lighting, as in addition to bringing unwanted attention to uninvited visitors, it increases the time customers can use their outdoor space.

Homeowners’ desire to make the most of their outdoor space combined with the increase in popularity and affordability of simple to install and use “Smart” security solutions means that selling video surveillance, wireless alarm and doorbell systems is a growing market opportunity for many installers.

Video surveillance systems are an increasingly popular part of customers’ security plans, used as both a visual deterrent and for gathering vital evidence.  The BurgCam Wi-Fi range offers a choice of outdoor zoom, dome, bullet and indoor cameras, all providing the ability to record directly onto an SD card and use as standalone units.  Super HD 2K resolution and the option to pair up to 6 cameras with a network recorder makes the BURGcam Wi-Fi range perfect for most home, small business & retail installations.

The easy to use BURGcam app provides real-time monitoring feed on smartphones, tablets and PCs.  It also allows pan, tilt and zoom control on the Zoom camera.  Together with the configurable notifications and alerts facility, this video surveillance system lets customers keep an eye on their property through their smartphone, whilst they’re relaxing in their garden.  It’s also worth considering installing external lighting, as in addition to bringing unwanted attention to uninvited visitors, it increases the time customers can use their outdoor space.

A door with a view

Video doorbells are a step up from traditional doorbell and spyhole viewer combinations and represent an easy entry point into “internet of things” security systems for both installers and customers alike.

Burg-Wächter’s new Door eGuard DG8500 is an easy to fit video doorbell system for both house and apartment doors.  Activated by either a simple button push or the infra-red motion detector, this Wi-Fi enabled camera sends a notification to the free Tuya Smart app, which is available for both Android and iOS.  This allows home owners to easily see visitors to their house via their smartphone, even when they enjoying their garden or out and about.

The DG85000 features a 720P camera with 160 degree lens along with integrated infra-red LEDs, to give a wide HD quality view, even in low light conditions.  The in-built speaker and microphone utilise noise suppression technology to provide crystal clear two-way audio communication.  Convenience is further increased as the Tuya app is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home, allowing Door eGuard to fully integrate into the modern smart home.

Utilising the build-it PIR sensor, the camera can record whenever motion is sensed for playback later via the app – perfect for keeping an eye on unwanted visitors.  A micro SD card slot allows the recording of both video and audio without the need for expensive cloud-based storage services.

Marking the DG8500 out from the competition is the separate chime box that features 16 different ring tones.  The chime box is both battery powered and fully wireless with a 30m range, so can be placed anywhere around the home, and within earshot of the back garden.  The external unit is IP55 rated and comes with a sun-visor/rain-cover, ensuring the Door eGuard 8500 can survive the best (and worst) of the British weather.

The Door eGuard 8500 is a direct replacement for existing 2-wire doorbell installations, whilst a separate 12V power supply is available for fresh installations.

Beating the garden burglar

Burg-Wächter believes that effective security is all about building in layers, with the first line of defence for many customers being the perimeter.  A weatherproof padlock, hasp and staple helps keep garden gates, sheds and outdoor storage boxes locked.  Similarly a combination locking bolt is ideal for using in a number of garden and outside areas; from stopping children entering gated areas such as ponds and pools, to securing the shed and outbuildings that have dangerous garden chemicals or valuable equipment in them.

From barbecues and patio furniture, to gardening and leisure equipment, the value of items left in and around the garden can be substantial.  This makes them a prime target for opportunist thieves, particularly with summer just around the corner.

Whilst this may seem like a bit of a departure from core business, encourage customers to protect their considerable investment by offering them a garden security kit.  The simple combination of a weatherproof padlock, security cable/chain and ground anchor provides a number of convenient and effective security solutions; from allowing customers to leave their barbeque and patio furniture locked together in the garden, to offering additional security for equipment stored in the shed or garage.

It’s also worth considering installing a KeyMinder as a simple solution for letting the right person in and keeping the wrong person out.  More secure than hiding a key under the mat and/or leaving keys with the neighbours, KeyMinders are designed to ensure spare keys are always available without the need for cutting multiple duplicate sets.

Coming in a range of different sizes, KeyMinders can only be opened by someone with the right 4 digit code out of a possible 10,000 different user-resettable combinations.  Discretely mounted on an outside wall, the strong curved body is difficult to attack and provides good all round security.

   

W: www.burg.biz/uk   E: uksales@burg.biz   T: +44 (0) 1274 395333

 

Security Advice leaflet for closed businesses launched

The leaflet is aimed at businesses who have either been instructed by the government to close in line with the Covid-19 guidance or have chosen to close, and provides advice and guidance to assist them review both their physical and cyber security to reduce the chances of falling victim to criminals.

To download the leaflet visit: https://www.securedbydesign.com/guidance/security-advice-for-businesses

For product procurement of police preferred products, visit: www.securedbydesign.com

Secured by Design and the Police Digital Security Centre are part of Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (PCPI), a police-owned non-profit organisation that works on behalf of the Police Service throughout the UK to deliver a wide range of crime prevention and police demand reduction initiatives.

Three tips to ditch the plastic for good in 2020

Posted on 1st January 2020 by 

Reducing the amount of plastic we use in our everyday lives is becoming more and more important to people and it is something that we are constantly striving to improve upon at APECS. Our industry uses a huge amount of plastic, not only in packaging and shipping, but also in day to day life with locksmiths, sales teams and technical staff out on the road.

Plastic was a wonderful invention; a cheap, strong, durable and malleable material for packaging, wrapping, bags, cups, bottles, furniture and just about everything else you can think of.

There is a huge downside to plastic though, and that is the impact that it has on the environment. Since the 1950’s, the world has produced 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic (that’s the equivalent of more than 800,000 Eiffel Towers) and only 9% of that has been recycled. Unfortunately, a huge amount of this plastic has ended up in the world’s oceans, with a reported 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic being present. The problem is so bad that if it continues at its current rate, plastic will outweigh fish in the ocean by the year 2050.

One of the major strengths of plastic is also one of the biggest problems; it takes a very long time to break down. Current estimates are that plastic takes 500-700 years to decompose, that means the plastic we are manufacturing today will still be on the planet for the next six or seven generations of our families lives.

Here at APECS, we are striving to reduce the amount of plastic we are using, both in our packaging and in our offices. 2020 will see us reduce the amount of plastic we are using in our packaging by up to 80%, as well as changing any plastic that we do use to 100% recycled or biodegradable plastic alternatives. We have also reduced the size of our cylinder packaging, meaning that we can fit more cylinders into each container, reducing our carbon footprint with less deliveries needed.

It is not just in our packaging that we have made changes though. In our London office, we have provided all of our staff with tote bags to ensure that they are not using plastic bags from shops. We have also given staff members metal water bottles to stop the need for buying plastic bottles when they are out on the road.

We realise that as locksmiths, you are on the road a lot of the day yourselves, and this results in buying lots of single use plastic items such as bottles of water, coffees and food containers. There are plenty of simple changes you can make in your own life to help with this issue though and these can also save you money at the same time.

Here are our top three tips to help reduce the amount of plastic you are using;

  • Buy a re-usable water bottle
  • Buy a re-usable coffee cup
  • Buy re-usable tote bags and use them for your shopping

These three small, simple changes will not only help the environment; they will help you save money. If you have a re-usable water bottle, you can get this refilled at most coffee shops free of charge. Another thing to keep in mind is that most of the high street coffee shops will now also give you a discount on your coffee if you bring your own re-usable coffee cup, so it’s a win-win for everyone! Save money and help save the environment.

Here at APECS we are looking to lead a sustainability shift in the lock and door hardware industry and we believe that if everyone does something, even small, to reduce the amount of plastic they use, we can have a big impact.

FSB Cornwall Business Bitesize

Welcome to the weekly newsletter that acts as a roundup of what’s going on in your local area.


Local Events

FSB Cornwall Women in Business Conference – “In Confidence”
Friday 6 March 2020 from 10.00-5.00pm Falmouth Hotel
The Federation of Small Businesses in Cornwall are holding the most major Women in Business conference that the county has ever seen on 6 March 2020 at The Falmouth Hotel. An all-day event, the aim is to focus on personal development, inspiration and confidence for; women running small businesses, about to start their own business or playing a key role in a business. Is this you?  Last year we had a waiting list for our Women in Business event so book on now to avoid disappointment.

Networking with our partner – Your Partnerships?

You’ll find a warm welcome and great networking opportunities all over Cornwall when you attend a Your Partnerships event. As one of FSB Cornwall’s partners, there’s always other FSB members around to chat to and lots of new contacts to make. Find out what’s happening near you by taking a look at their website.

Local News

Could you supply your goods or services to Bristol Airport? Join us for a special Meet the Airport Team – 29 January
The FSB is delighted to invite all our members from across the South West to join us for a special event where you can find out more about selling your goods and services to one of the biggest players in the region – Bristol Airport. We have worked with the airport to set up a special ‘meet the airport team/meet the buyer’ morning on Wednesday, January 29, and this is a fantastic opportunity to find out more about the airport and find out how you could potentially join their supply chain. Find out more and book on here.

Leading to Grow Programme
Microbusinesses (businesses with between 1-9 employees) can apply to the Leading to Grow Programme, to grow, innovate and increase productivity through adopting digital and new technologies. The programme will be delivered by a consortium of Small Business Charter accredited business schools across England. Places are fully funded by the Business Basics Fund from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy and Innovate UK. More information can be found here.

New £3.1M grant fund launches
A new £3.1 million grant fund has been launched to help small and medium sized businesses in Cornwall to boost their productivity and grow. BIG (Business Investment for Growth) Productivity offers grants from £2.5k up to £150k to qualifying businesses and can meet up to 45% of project costs for small businesses, and up to 35% for medium-sized businesses. Find out more here.


Business Issues
Three weeks until self-assessment deadline
A reminder that the self-assessment deadline is fast approaching on the 31 January. According to HMRC, there remains more than five million taxpayers who are yet to complete their self-assessment returns before the deadline. Find out more about it from HMRC.

Fake reviews blighting small firms
New research from FSB reveals the impact of fake and malicious reviews on small businesses that trade online. One in five report having issues with fake reviews, with a similar proportion affected by sudden changes to terms and conditions.


Making the Most of your Membership
Pensions and Payroll – a marriage made in heaven
Managing payroll is a tricky task for any company, whatever their size. Larger businesses can struggle to process high volumes of data accurately and on time. Small businesses find it difficult to stay on top of ever changing HMRC regulations, and it all costs time and money. Check out our blog from FSB Workplace Pensions if you’ve ever thought about outsourcing your pensions or payroll admin.

Is your business insurance due for renewal?
FSB Insurance Service understands small businesses. From listening to members like you, we can equip you with the right insurance products for your business. Click here to find out more and obtain a quote.

Smart lock, smart home, smart living.

Technology is laying the foundation for a truly smart home when it comes to security, where will be in the next ten years?

Already there are smart meters to track energy usage, smart thermostats to control heating systems, smart doorbells and cameras for home security as well as smart home assistance devices such as Amazon’s Alexa and Google’s Home Mini. Today, the ‘smart, connected home’ is the exception. In a decade or less it will be the norm.

Residential smart lock technology allows the user to go above and beyond what a standard door lock can offer. The smart lock provides multiple features accessed through an app on a smart phone giving a greater picture of home security. Undoubtedly a driver for this is that more people now want everything to be accessed through their personal device.

With a smart home lock there is no need to carry keys which eliminates the chance of them being lost or stolen, and it also allows users to cancel keys on the go if they need to restrict access. And because such technology works with most existing euro cylinders or multipoint locks (depending on different manufacturers models), it still complies with current home insurance standards.

Such locks are battery operated and wire free, wireless, cloud or mobile based – so no need for the expense and inconvenience of hard wiring – and are already in widespread use in commercial markets such as hotels, universities, airports, serviced offices etc.

What are the advantages of this technology over a traditional key and lock arrangement?

For residential customers in serviced apartments and the like, more powerful cloud based solutions are a common choice. Cloud access control provides a simple and secure solution to manage keys, users and doors across multiple locations – typically using a combination of smart phone app and smart RFID tag.

No software installation is required; all that’s needed is an online device with an Internet connection. An online account is created and this is used to create access groups, manage users and view entries to the property from a smart phone, tablet or other device.

A hub unit fitted inside the building uses 2G, 3G or 4Gcellular connectivity to communicate with the wireless lock equipped doors. Users simply present their RFID tag to the lock which instantly engages so residents, visitors etc can enter easily and according to their access rights.

What about the individual home?

For the domestic homeowner there are a number of options on the market and most make use of the smart phone to take the place of the ‘key’.

Some take the form of a traditional handle set and have a prominent reader unit at the top. Users can configure, control and unlock their smart door lock from their smart phone via a secure Bluetooth app. They can give family and friends access by sending a virtual key to their smart phone and keep track of who comes and goes via the app.

Another variation is to have a smart motorised lock. The advantage of this is that the door looks just like a normal door with a standard-looking handle and keyhole; there is no impression from the outside that the door is smart. The electronic unit is housed on the inside of the door and again works with a smart phone app. But the attraction of this product is that it also has an auto unlock feature.

With auto unlock activated, coming home is as easy as it gets. Automatic GEO location detection determines your position when you enter the auto unlock zone, approx 500 – 1000m from the door,  and when you get in Bluetooth range approx 0 – 5m, it unlocks your door for you. Not only that, but with automatic timed locking it can do exactly the same thing in reverse and automatically lock the door when you leave the house.

As with most things, the key to success lies in recommending the right product for the customers’ needs. But with smart security, the technology is already here to deliver tomorrow’s smart home today.

For further information visit: www.saltosystems.com

 

Paxton Introduce the Net2 Entry Premium Monitor – Elegant. Intelligent. Secure

Paxton Introduce the Net2 Entry Premium Monitor – Elegant. Intelligent. Secure

Paxton, the UK market leader of electronic IP access control and door entry solutions, has announced the launch of the Net2 Entry Premium Monitor, the latest addition to its award winning door entry system.

The new interior monitor provides a greater personalised experience together with an elegant aesthetic design. The smart, slim monitor, with simple user interface, includes a quality glass touch screen and 25 background themes making it ideal for a range of applications. This includes high-end residential, commercial buildings and healthcare sites.

The monitor has a host of new features including a concierge function, offering simple visitor and site management. This enables users who are busy or away to divert the monitor to reception, and if the caller is missed, enhanced call administration provides a video snapshot and event log of visitors.

Additional features include a high quality digital camera enabling two-way communication between users or the concierge, and a line-out for use with a T-Loop antenna for users with hearing aids.

The monitor is available in two variations, with or without a handset. A desktop stand is also available, making the monitor adaptable for various environments.

Gareth O’Hara, Paxton’s Chief Sales Officer says: “Following the successful release of the Net2 Entry Touch Panel last year we wanted to further increase the premium product options for our installers. By combining the latest available technology and listening closely to our customers’ feedback we continue to make improvements to what is one of our fastest growing product lines.The elegant design and personalised experience provided by the Premium Monitor perfectly compliments our Net2 Entry range.

“As with all Paxton products this user-friendly solution is supported by our industry leading technical support, 5-year guarantee and a hassle free returns service.”

Pitched as the simplest door entry system available, Net2 Entry consists of just three components that auto-detect on set up; external panel, interior monitor and door controller, for a true plug and play solution. For installers interested in learning more about the Net2 Entry system, free half day training is currently available at the Paxton Technology Centre in Brighton.

For further information about the Net2 Entry Premium Monitor, please visit: http://paxton.info/3349

Top 5 DIY SEO tips for locksmiths

Top 5 DIY SEO tips for locksmiths

Website owners use search engine optimisation (SEO) to help search engines find and rank their web pages, so consumers can find them more easily. The majority of Internet searches (80%) is done via Google, as a result most SEO tips you’ll come across are geared toward getting noticed and ranked by Google.

There are a lot of SEO courses, and articles online, and there is always something new added to process. Try not to get overwhelmed, you don’t need to use them all. There are a few basic principles, which will help you to improve your search ranking straight away…

KEYWORDS

Make sure that you use the correct type of keywords on your website; Google’s Keyword Planner will help. Use keywords in articles, page titles, headlines, image names, and in your menu. Try not to overuse keywords though or it might think you’re trying to cheat the system. Instead, consider using variations of the same word and add a blog that you can post relevant information to (including keywords of course). Try to make posts at least once a month, to make sure information is up to date, and add links to external sites (more in point 3).

META DESCRIPTION

This is a short snippet of information that summarises a webpage’s content. Its main purpose is to get a click on your link so sales phrases with a call to action like ‘learn more about our services’, ‘get a quote’, or ‘call for a free consultation’ encourage this. Search engines – such as Google – show the meta description in search results mostly when the searched-for phrase (typed in by the consumer) is contained in the description, so try to think about what someone would be searching for; such as ‘locksmith in London’ or ‘change lock in Manchester’. Try to keep it under 150 characters, to make sure that Google and other search engines can display it correctly. Also, make sure that your meta description is unique, as Google may penalise you for copying a competitor. If you can, write a meta description for each page of your website; at the very least, your home page needs a correct meta description.

Here is an example of APECS meta description.

OUTGOING LINKS

All search engines like to see links to other authoritative sites, as well as links within your own site to more of your own content. Make sure that you add links to MLA website and the APECS website for better Google ranking. Also add social share buttons under each post in your blog to will help with Google ranking and your own online promotion.

INCOMING LINKS

These are links to your website from other sites. If you have social media already, then definitely add more links on your Facebook, Twitter and Instagram that take people back to your website. Having other quality sites linking to your content also goes a long way to improving your ranking so consider digital newspapers in your area, Trustpilot, or any other platforms, where people could add reviews on your business. Make sure that you only link well-known websites when leaving links to your page, because Google will judge your website by the quality of the incoming and outgoing links.

MOBILE FRIENDLY

So many people will be searching for a locksmith on their mobile phones or tablets. What’s more, Google has included mobile-friendly as one of the aspects it looks for when ranking a site. Check if your website is mobile friendly here: https://search.google.com/test/mobile-friendly

For additional information on SEO and marketing ideas, check out APECS website https://apecs.co.uk/MarketingTools and www.youtube.com/user/GoogleWebmasterHelp