Steps for Getting into Your Home if You’ve Locked Your Keys Inside
You may think that it will never happen to you. Locking your keys inside your house is something that only happens in movies, right?
This is the scenario presented to thousands of people across the US and Canada every year. A momentary lapse of concentration can lead to that sinking feeling of knowing you’re stuck in the cold.
So, what should you do if you find yourself in this situation?
Step One – Do You Have Someone You Can Call?
If you have roommates, you should ask them if they can let you in. If you have a landlord, call them and see if they would be willing to come over. Most landlords always keep a copy of the house key.
For people in apartment complexes, approach the manager’s desk. Again, they may have a copy of your key from the company that owns the building.
Step Two – Did You Consider the Window?
In one study, burglars said that windows are the second most likely point of entry for them. If you could lock your keys inside your home, it’s not unthinkable that a window might be unlocked.
Look around your home and see if there are any first-floor windows you can climb through. Don’t put your safety at risk by attempting to shimmy up the drainpipe and climb through a second-floor window, however.
Step Three – Try Your Credit Card
Did you know that your credit is a way to open a locked door without a locksmith?
The credit card trick only works with doors that have a spring bolt. Just insert the card between the frame and the door where the latch is. Start pushing and wiggling the card, while keeping it straight. Continue bending towards the doorknob as you try to slide the latch back. It also helps to push your weight against the door.
If it opens, you need to find your nearest locksmith because your door is an invitation to home invaders. No exterior door should be able to be broken by something as light as a credit card.
Step Four – Kick the Door In
Desperate to get inside and can’t afford to wait in the cold? You can try kicking the door in. Many older and cheaper doors can be kicked in with a well-placed blow. Just make sure your foot hits just under the lock and it should break.
It won’t necessarily break the whole door, but it will blow the lock. We don’t recommend this option unless you’re desperate.
Step Five – Call a Locksmith
The locksmithing industry is worth $2 billion, and it’s driven by scenarios like this. If you can wait it out, call a locksmith and allow them to unlock the door for you.
They will be able to open the door without destroying the lock or your door. It also presents a great chance to ask your locksmith about door security. Professional locksmiths know how to get a broken key out of a lock. It also presents a great chance to ask your locksmith about door security.
Many locksmiths offer emergency services for scenarios like this.
Last Word – Always Have a Spare Key
You should always have a spare key somewhere. Whether that’s with a close family member or a trusted friend, keeping a spare key somewhere can save you a lot of unnecessary time and effort in the future.
