We’ve all been there – that heart-sinking moment when you realise you’re locked out of your own home. Whether you’ve misplaced your keys, forgotten the code to your keypad lock or had a malfunction with your smart lock, being locked out can be a frustrating and stressful experience.
But fear not; there are several ways to regain access to your home without breaking in or calling an expensive locksmith. Here are some tips and tricks for getting back into your home in case of a lockout:
1. Don’t Panic – Take a Deep Breath
First things first, try not to freak out. I know it’s easier said than done, but panicking won’t help you get back inside any faster. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that this is a common problem with solutions. You’ve got this!
2. Check All Doors and Windows
Before you do anything else, thoroughly check all possible entry points. You might get lucky and find an unlocked door or window you forgot about. Just be careful if you’re thinking about climbing through a window – we don’t want any neighbours calling the police thinking you’re a burglar!
3. Call Your Housemates or Family Members
If you live with others, give them a call. They might be nearby and able to come and let you in. Even if they’re not close, they might know about a spare key you’ve forgotten about. Plus, it’s always nice to have some moral support when you’re in a pickle.
4. Look for Your Hidden Spare Key
Speaking of spare keys, now’s the time to rack your brain and remember where you might have hidden one. Under the doormat? In a fake rock? Maybe you gave one to a trusted neighbour? If you can’t remember, make a mental note to hide a spare key in a safe place once you’re back inside.
5. Ask Your Neighbors for Help
Don’t be shy – your neighbours might be able to help! They could let you use their phone if your battery is dead, or maybe they have tools you could borrow. Who knows, they might even be handy enough to help you get back in. Just remember to bake them some thank-you cookies later!
6. Try the Credit Card Trick (But Be Careful!)
If you have a credit card or a similar stiff plastic card, you might be able to use it to slide the lock open. This usually only works on simple spring locks, not deadbolts. Slide the card between the door and the frame, then bend it away from the doorknob while pushing the door open. But be warned: this can damage your card and the lock, so it’s not ideal.
7. Remove the Doorknob (If You’re Handy)
For those of you who are a bit handy, you might be able to remove the doorknob. Look for a small hole or slot on the side of the knob. If you find one, you can usually push a small nail or paperclip into it to release the knob. But unless you’re confident in your DIY skills, it might be best to leave this to the professionals.
8. Call a Professional Locksmith
When all else fails, it’s time to call in the experts. A professional residential locksmith service can get you back inside quickly and safely without damaging your property. They have the tools and know-how to handle all sorts of locks. If you’re on the Central Coast of Australia, AllCoast Locksmiths can come to your rescue. They’re experienced, trustworthy, and always ready to help in a lockout situation.
9. While You Wait, Stay Safe
If you’re waiting for help to arrive, make sure you’re in a safe place. If it’s hot outside, find some shade. If it’s cold or raining, see if a neighbour will let you wait inside. And if it’s getting dark, try to stay in a well-lit area. Your safety is the most important thing!
10. Plan for the Future
Once you’re back inside (hooray!), take some steps to prevent future lockouts. Here are a few ideas:
- Hide a spare key in a secure place outside
- Give a spare to a trusted friend or neighbour
- Consider installing a smart lock that you can open with your phone
- Start a new habit of always checking for your keys before leaving
PRO TIP: Always keep a spare key in your wallet or purse
You never know when you might forget your keys, but you probably won’t leave home without your wallet or purse. Slip a spare key into one of the slots, and it’ll always be with you.
Conclusion
Remember, getting locked out happens to the best of us. It’s frustrating and inconvenient, but it’s not the end of the world. With these tips, you’ll be prepared to handle it like a pro. And hey, at least you’ll have a funny story to tell at your next dinner party!
However, for professional emergency locksmithing, AllCoast Loscksmiths are the guys to call. Stay safe, and may your keys always be where you expect them to be!
