Locking Curbside Mailbox – Help Prevent Identity Theft
Identity theft is a growing problem in many areas of the country. To help curtail identity theft, many homeowners are installing a locking curbside mailbox to keep would-be thieves at bay.
Mailbox locks are essential for deterring thieves and are extremely important when the homeowner is away for several days and unable to retrieve the mail. The U.S. Postal Service will not open locked boxes nor will they accept a key for that purpose.
Almost all types of mailboxes can be locked for safety
Locks can be installed on both post and wall mounted mailboxes. When searching for a suitable lockable mailbox choose one with a heavy-duty lock that cannot easily be pried open.
Lock installation
Vandal-resistant steel mailboxes can also withstand typical mailbox abuse from bats, rocks, canned goods, and accidental blows from large street vehicles.
When selecting a locking mailbox choose one that is constructed of durable material than cannot be damaged or opened with a saw, hammer, chisel, or knife. The lock itself should also be heavy-duty that cannot easily be pried open. It defeats the purpose of having a lock if someone can easily open it with a screwdriver, hammer, chisel, or knife.
If your mailbox is not equipped with a lock, you can purchase one from several online sources. When installing a lock on an existing mailbox, make sure your mailbox is strong enough to withstand an attack.
Alternatively you can purchase a new mailbox with a built-in locking mechanism. It is important to have a mailbox with a mail slot large enough to accommodate your daily volume of mail.