Putting the Lock on Security

In a perfect world we could all leave our doors unlocked and our valuables out in the open. The case being otherwise, manufacturers have developed some innovative security devices to thwart potential thieves. Prices do not include shipping and handling. Many items may be available at retail stores.

Safes to go: Sometimes what travelers really need is a little portable safe. Sentry’s Portable Lock’R fits the bill nicely. The heavy-duty, hinged plastic box, available in two sizes, has a built-in reinforced steel cable that loops around stationary objects--such as a bed frame or chain-link fence frame--and locks into a four-digit programmable combination lock that also is built into the box. The hinges are internal. The large Lock’R, with internal measurements of 8 1/4 inches by 5 1/2 inches by 2 1/4 inches deep, with a 15-inch cable, can hold a small point-and-shoot camera or a standard 35-millimeter camera with the lens removed, travel documents, a wallet, jewelry or sunglasses. The smaller model--5 inches by 3 3/4 inches by 1 1/2 inches, with a 12-inch cable--is suited for keys, a watch or a small wallet. A determined burglar can cut the cable or pound in the plastic case, but these lockers are good deterrents against those after easy pickings.

Sentry Portable Lock’R is about $20 for small size and $30 for large size. To find a store in your area, call the company at (800) 828-1438.

Secure cable: Lewis N. Clark has a simple cable lock that comes with a 42-inch cable and programmable three-digit combination lock. The lock is ideal for securing luggage to the metal rack of a train compartment or to the legs of chairs bolted to the floor or for locking luggage together when heading into a duty-free shop.

Cable Lock (Item SL624) is $14.85 from Magellan’s; telephone (800) 962-4943.

Deterring bike burglars: An estimated 80% of the million-plus bicycles stolen nationwide each year were unlocked. A large percentage of the owners did, in fact, own locks but weren’t using them, citing unwieldiness and difficulty of use. A new bicycle bolt-lock from Sentry is easy to use and more secure than many locks on the market. Weighing about two pounds, the steel J-Bolt mounts and stores at the rear of the bike, incorporating the frame into the locking system. Thieves trying to pry open the lock would damage the frame in the process--an extra deterrent.

The J Bolt Bike Lock is about $40 at bicycle and sporting goods stores.

Strap with an attitude: Luggage straps can deter thieves from breaking into a suitcase and are an extra precaution against cases popping open in transit. This version comes with the added security of a two-digit combination lock--a smart defense against casual vandals. The 1 1/2-inch nylon strap fits luggage up to 76 inches around.

Locking Luggage Strap (Item LA317) is $9.85 from Magellan’s; tel. (800) 962-4943.

Computer defense: Here’s a clever solution for securing portable computers. Curtis, a division of Rolodex, has developed a lock and cable system that locks into the floppy disk drive, making it unusable. A heavy-duty 3 1/2-inch disk and lock unit inserts into the floppy drive, and when locked with the key cannot be removed without ruining the floppy drive. A separate steel cable attaches to the lock and can be looped around a stationary object. As with many locks, a determined thief probably can figure out a way to dismantle the system, but no one who happens to open your portable will be able to walk away with it easily.

Curtis Drive Lock for portable computers is $14.99 from computer supply stores.

Gear & Gadgets appears the first week of every month.