• As of 2024, Utah's burglary rate was approximately 147 offenses per 100,000 residents, translating to about 5.9 burglaries per day statewide.
• This is notably lower than the national average of 2,451 burglaries per 100,000 residents (USAFacts).
• On average, this results in approximately 0.25 burglaries per hour across the state—about once every 4 hours.
• Salt Lake City has experienced a 15-year low in overall crime rates, including property crimes like burglary.
• Areas such as West Valley City and Ogden have reported higher property crime rates compared to other parts of the state (The Advocates).

For home security, a deadlatch adds a critical security feature to standard spring latches, preventing forced entry by blocking the plunger's ability to be pushed back with a card or tool. A functioning deadlatch requires proper installation and regular maintenance to ensure the plunger engages the strike plate, providing resistance against manipulation. Tips for lock security include using deadbolts or deadlatches instead of standard latches, ensuring proper installation by a professional, and keeping all lock mechanisms in good working order.

What a Deadlatch Does

A deadlatch is an advanced form of a night latch that offers a higher level of security against forced entry.

• Prevents Bypass Methods: Unlike a standard spring latch, a deadlatch features a deadlocking plunger that, when engaged by the strike plate, cannot be pushed back. This prevents criminals from using methods like "credit carding" to slip between the door and frame and force the latch open.
• Requires Proper Engagement: The deadlatch plunger must be correctly aligned with its corresponding hole on the strike plate for the deadlocking feature to work. If the plunger doesn't fully engage and lock into the strike plate, the lock can be bypassed.

Tips for Home Security with Locks

• Use the Right Locks: Install deadbolts or, for increased security against manipulation, deadlatches instead of standard spring latches.
• Ensure Proper Installation: Have your locks, especially deadlatches, installed by a professional locksmith to ensure they are perfectly aligned and functioning correctly.
• Check for Proper Engagement: Test your deadlatch by closing the door and listening for a second click, which indicates the deadlatch plunger has engaged.
• Maintain Your Locks: Regularly lubricate your locks with a graphite-based lubricant and replace any worn-out or faulty components to keep them in good working order.
• Consider Other Security Measures: For the highest level of protection, use your deadlatch in conjunction with other security features such as alarms, CCTV cameras, and motion sensors.

Have a Cache Lock & Key professional come to your home for a Home Security Consultation. We will check all locks and hardware including strikes, strike plates, deadlatches, window locks, sliding glass doors, and sliding glass door locking hardware. Call us today to schedule this.

CALL OR TEXT US 435-764-0921