Family-Owned SecuritySince 1964
Three generations of the Carneval family have built Interstate Security into Erie's most trusted locksmith and security provider. What started as a two-man partnership over 60 years ago is now a full-service operation serving the entire Tri-State Area.
Our Story
From a small lock shop on Erie's east side to a full-service security operation, the Carneval family has been protecting homes and businesses for over six decades.
In 1964, John J. Carneval and Paul Raupers pooled their expertise and opened Car-Paul Safe & Lock Co. in Erie, Pennsylvania. The company name was a combination of their surnames, and the partnership laid the foundation for what would become one of the region's longest-standing security businesses.
Shortly after the founding, Raupers sold his interest, and Mr. Carneval took the reins as sole proprietor. For nearly 40 years, he grew Car-Paul from a small storefront operation into a recognized name in Erie County's locksmith industry, earning the trust of homeowners, businesses, and institutions throughout the area.
In 1976, Carneval identified an opportunity to serve fellow professionals in the trade and established Great Lakes Supply Co., a wholesale locksmith supply business. For over two decades, the two operations ran side by side, each reinforcing the other's reputation for quality and reliability.
On March 10, 1997, Car-Paul Safe & Lock and Great Lakes Supply were officially merged and incorporated as Interstate Security, Inc. The consolidation brought the Carneval family's full range of retail and wholesale capabilities under a single name, positioning the company to serve the growing security needs of the Tri-State Area.
Six Decades of Growth
Key milestones in the history of Interstate Security and the Carneval family.
Car-Paul Safe & Lock Co. Founded
John J. Carneval partnered with Paul Raupers to open Car-Paul Safe & Lock Co. in Erie, PA. The name combined their two surnames, marking the start of a legacy in the locksmith trade.
Sole Proprietorship
Paul Raupers sold his interest to Mr. Carneval shortly after the founding, and Carneval continued operating as sole proprietor for nearly four decades, building a loyal customer base throughout Erie County.
Great Lakes Supply Co. Established
Carneval expanded his reach by creating Great Lakes Supply Co., a wholesale locksmith supply operation that served professional locksmiths across the region.
Interstate Security, Inc. Incorporated
Car-Paul Safe & Lock and Great Lakes Supply were merged on March 10, 1997, forming Interstate Security, Inc. The incorporation brought the family's retail and wholesale operations under one roof.
Over 60 Years of Service
Now in its second generation of Carneval family leadership, Interstate Security continues to serve Erie, PA and the surrounding Tri-State Area from its 2,500 square foot facility on State Street.
Our Facility
A 2,500 square foot professional locksmith and security center designed to handle every aspect of the trade.
Service Counter
Walk-in customers receive one-on-one assistance at our front counter, where our staff can cut keys, discuss lock upgrades, and provide expert guidance on security products.
Safe Showroom
Browse our selection of residential and commercial safes in person. We carry a variety of sizes and fire ratings so you can find the right protection for your valuables.
Machine Shop & Garage
Our two-bay garage and fully equipped machine shop allow us to handle everything from automotive transponder key programming to precision lock work and safe servicing.
Meet the Team
The people behind Interstate Security bring decades of combined experience in the locksmith and security profession.
Mr. John Carneval
Owner
Founded Car-Paul Safe & Lock Co. in 1964 and has guided the business through six decades of growth, earning a reputation as Erie's most trusted name in security.
John Carneval, Jr.
General Manager
Oversees daily operations and ensures every customer receives the same level of care that has defined the Carneval family business for over 60 years.
Paul Carneval
Inside Sales/Service, Key Records Manager
Manages key records and provides in-house sales support, ensuring accurate and efficient service for every customer who walks through the door.
Joe Carneval
Service Manager
Coordinates field service operations and manages the team's scheduling, keeping response times fast and service quality high across the Tri-State Area.
Ross Sheriff
Professional Locksmith
A skilled professional locksmith providing expert installation, rekeying, and repair services for residential, commercial, and automotive clients.
Our Credentials
Recognized by industry leaders and trusted by the community.
Authorized Medeco Security Center
Interstate Security is an authorized dealer for Medeco high-security locks, recognized as one of the top brands in pick-resistant and drill-resistant lock technology.
BBB A+ Rating
The Better Business Bureau has awarded Interstate Security an A+ rating, reflecting our commitment to resolving customer concerns and maintaining the highest standards of business practice.
4.6 Stars on Google
With 51 verified reviews and a 4.6-star average, our Google rating speaks to the consistent quality of work and customer service that has defined this business since 1964.
Brands We Carry
We stock and install products from the most trusted names in the lock and security industry.
As an Authorized Medeco Security Center, we have access to the full line of Medeco products and the training to install and service them properly.
Serving the Tri-State Area
Based in Erie, PA, we provide locksmith and security services throughout Northwestern Pennsylvania, Northeastern Ohio, and Western New York.
Pennsylvania
Erie County and the surrounding Northwestern PA region
Ohio
Ashtabula and the Northeastern OH border communities
New York
Chautauqua County and Western NY communities near the PA border
Ready to Work With Erie'sMost Trusted Security Team?
Whether you need a key copied, a lock rekeyed, a safe delivered, or a complete security system installed, our team is here to help. Stop by our showroom or give us a call.