By By Robert Taylor
Getting locked out of the house is inconvenient at the least, and at the worst, it can be downright dangerous. Most people panic when it happens, but there are ways to resolve the situation. Below are several tips for homeowners and family members to follow during a lockout.
Ask Others for Help
If possible, ask a family member, roommate, or landlord for help getting back in. While it may be an inconvenience to have someone take off work simply to bring a key by, it’s a lot better than the hassle and wasted time of being locked out of the home. For those who live in apartment complexes, a stop at the manager’s office may be all that’s needed to get the doors open again.
Look for an Unlocked Window
While it’s not a good idea to leave windows unlocked, it happens, and an unlocked window is a good entry point. Just remove the screen, lift the window, and slide through, being sure to avoid household items that are sitting below the window.
Call a Locksmith
When all other options are exhausted, it may be time to find local Locksmith services. Begin by getting quotes on lock-out services. Many locksmiths charge trip fees in addition to the service fee, and calling around can help a homeowner get the best price on a locksmith’s services.
Ensure Future Success
Once the customer is back inside the home, they should prepare for future lockouts by taking the steps below.
– Giving a spare key to a neighbor or close friend
– Buying a hide-a-key appliance that blends in with its surroundings
– Keeping keys near a purse, wallet, phone, or other things that are easily remembered upon departure
It may be a good idea to consider keyless locks, which eliminate the need for physical keys. Talk to a locksmith service or home security provider about automated locks that can be opened and closed via a smartphone app or other means.