We all know that lockouts happen more often than we’d like to admit. As you rush to work, come home from a late-night event, or stand outside your house in the rain, they always happen at the worst times. But if you plan, you can avoid many lockouts altogether. There are also effective ways to deal with the inevitable times when prevention doesn’t work, such as calling an emergency locksmith. This guide gives you 10 ways to prevent lockouts and tells you what to do if they do happen.
How to Prevent Lockouts: 10 Essential Tips
- Keep Spare Keys in Safe Places:
Having extra keys on hand is one of the easiest ways to avoid getting locked out. You can give one to a neighbour, friend, or family member you trust. Instead, you could use a safe lock box in your home. So, if you lose your main set, you can still use your spare key without having to call an emergency locksmith. - Establish a Key Routine:
If you always check for your keys before leaving the house or car, you’ll be much less likely to get locked out. Before you close the door behind you, make it a habit to check your pockets or bag for your keys every time. Having a regular key routine will help you remember things, especially when you’re in a hurry. - Use Key Hooks or Designated Areas:
Designate a specific location in your home for your keys. Whether it’s a hook near the front door or a bowl on a table, keeping your keys in the same location means you’ll always know where they are. This habit can help you avoid panic when it’s time to leave and you can’t find your keys. - Duplicate Your Keys:
Make sure you have more than one set of keys. A well-prepared homeowner or driver will always have extra keys, including one conveniently located. A lot of locksmiths, even emergency locksmiths, can make copies of keys quickly. If you have extras, you’ll never be without a backup. - Upgrade to Keyless Entry Systems:
If you lose your keys a lot or often get locked out, you might want to get a keyless entry system. Only a professional locksmith can set up these systems, which allow you to enter your home or car using codes or biometric scans instead of traditional keys. This can be particularly beneficial in preventing lockouts. - Regularly Maintain Your Locks:
People often get locked out by accident because their locks are broken or worn out. To keep this from happening, check and fix your locks often. Should you observe any issues, such as difficulty turning the key or the lock malfunctioning, promptly contact a locksmith to inspect and resolve the issue before you find yourself locked out. - Invest in a Smart Key Finder:
In this digital world, tools like smart key finders can come in handy. These small devices can be attached to your keychain and connected to your phone via an app. In case you lose your keys, the app will help you find them. This technology reduces the likelihood of key loss, preventing lockout situations. - Give Yourself Reminders:
Putting sticky notes or phone alerts on your phone can help you remember things when you’re in a hurry. Don’t forget to check for your keys before you leave. Write it on the door, or set an alarm on your phone. A quick reminder can keep you from getting locked out of the building. - Have a Professional Locksmith Install Lockboxes:
A lockbox is a safe and private way to keep an extra key on your property. There are a lot of emergency locksmiths who can professionally install these, making them difficult to change. This makes you feel safe because you know you can always get into your house, even if you lose your keys. - Regularly Reassess Your Lockout Prevention Plan:
The risks of being locked out may change as your life does. You should reevaluate your lockout prevention plans whenever you move, buy a new car, or change your routine. By taking action, you can effectively navigate new situations and reduce the likelihood of future lockouts.
What to Do if You’re Locked Out
Even with the best preparation, lockouts can still happen. When they do, to prevent lockouts it’s important to stay calm and know your options.
Check for Unlocked Windows or Doors:
Before you call a locksmith, make sure that no windows or doors are left open. However, if you enter through these points, be careful because it could damage your property or even be dangerous.
Call an Emergency Locksmith:
The next thing you should do if you can’t get into your home is call an emergency locksmith. These experts are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can quickly help you get back into your home, office, or car. If you need to, an emergency locksmith can also fix any damage or install new locks.
Avoid DIY Lock-picking:
Doing your best to open a door by yourself can lead to more problems than solutions. In addition to breaking the lock, this could also void any warranties or lead to a bigger problem that needs expensive repairs. A trained locksmith with the right tools and knowledge to handle the situation safely and quickly is always the best choice.
Have Identification Ready:
When a locksmith comes to your door, they will probably ask to see your ID to make sure you own the property. Your ID will speed up the process and prove you own the item. Locksmiths take this crucial step to maintain security and prevent unauthorised individuals from entering.
The Importance of a Trustworthy Emergency Locksmith
When you find yourself locked out, having a reliable emergency locksmith in your area can make all the difference. Having the contact information for a trusted locksmith ensures you won’t be stranded during a late-night car lockout or a front door issue at home. A trustworthy locksmith will provide fast, efficient service without causing damage to your property.
Prevent Lockouts and Stay Calm in Emergencies
Lockouts can be annoying, but they don’t need to cause panic or property damage. Double-check your keys, keep spare keys handy, or install a smart lock system. If the worst happens, calling an emergency locksmith remains the quickest and best solution. Stay calm and prepared, and lockouts will become nothing more than a minor inconvenience.
