Locked Out? Here’s What to Do Before Calling a Locksmith

Getting locked out of your home, office, or car is one of the most frustrating experiences anyone can face. It always seems to happen at the worst possible time—when you’re late for work, it’s raining, or you have groceries melting in the car. While your first instinct may be to panic or immediately call a locksmith, taking a few careful steps before making that call can save you both time and money. Here’s what you can do if you ever find yourself locked out.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing to do when you realize you’re locked out is to stay calm. It’s easy to panic, but stress can cloud your judgment and cause you to overlook simple solutions. Take a deep breath and check your surroundings. Are you in a safe area? If you’re locked out at night or in an unfamiliar place, move to a well-lit area and stay alert until help arrives.

2. Double-Check All Entry Points

Before calling a locksmith, walk around your property to see if there’s another way in. You’d be surprised how many people forget that a back door or window might be unlocked. Check sliding glass doors, garage side doors, or even basement windows—just make sure you’re not damaging anything or putting yourself at risk while doing so. If you live in an apartment, check whether a roommate, neighbor, or building manager has a spare key.

3. Look for a Spare Key

Many people keep a spare key hidden somewhere nearby. Think about whether you’ve hidden one under a doormat, in a lockbox, or with a trusted friend or neighbor. If you’ve recently moved in or changed locks, make a mental note to have a spare key made in the future—it can save you from future lockout headaches.

4. Contact Someone You Trust

If you share your home or car with someone else, they may have a spare key. A quick call to a family member, friend, or roommate could resolve the issue without needing professional assistance. If you’re locked out of your vehicle, someone may be able to bring your extra key from home.

5. Check for Digital or Smart Lock Options

If your home or car uses a smart lock, check whether you can unlock it via an app or digital access code. Many modern systems allow remote unlocking from your phone or even a trusted contact’s device. If you’re locked out of your car, some newer vehicles allow remote unlocking through a manufacturer’s mobile app or customer service hotline.

6. Avoid DIY Unlocking Tricks

You might find plenty of “quick lockout fixes” online, such as using a coat hanger, credit card, or screwdriver to unlock your door. However, these DIY tricks often do more harm than good. They can damage your locks, scratch your doors, or even make your situation worse. Unless you have experience with lock mechanisms, it’s best to leave the job to a professional locksmith.

7. Call a Professional Locksmith

If you’ve exhausted all your options, it’s time to call a professional locksmith. A licensed locksmith can safely and efficiently unlock your door without causing damage. Look for local locksmiths who offer 24/7 emergency lockout services and have positive reviews. Be sure to confirm their credentials and ask for an upfront estimate before they begin any work.

8. Prevent Future Lockouts

Once you’re safely back inside, take steps to prevent this from happening again. Here are a few smart tips:

• Make spare keys: Keep one at work, in your car, or with a trusted friend.
  
  

• Install a keyless entry system: Smart locks allow entry via codes or your smartphone.
  
  

• Use a key holder or key tracker: Attach a Bluetooth key finder to your keychain.
  
  

• Create a routine: Before leaving, always check that you have your keys, phone, and wallet.
  
  

Conclusion

Lockouts happen to everyone, but how you handle them makes all the difference. Staying calm, checking all entry points, and exploring alternatives before calling a locksmith can save you stress and money. However, when all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact a trusted locksmith—they have the right tools and expertise to get you back inside quickly and safely.

Taking these simple precautions not only helps you manage lockout situations more effectively but also ensures you’re better prepared for the next time life throws you an unexpected lock-and-key challenge.

Lok Out Shop

Richmond, IN 47374 USA
765-935-4234