Avoid Getting Locked Out Of Your Home Ever Again

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It’s a frustrating, often embarrassing event that happens to most homeowners at some point in their lives. In some circumstances, it can be a dire home emergency. However, getting locked out of your home, with the technology and services available today, is something that should, ultimately, never happen to you again. Here, we’re going to look at some tips you can follow to ensure that you’re able to get back into your home, even if you’re not always able to remember to bring your keys with you.

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Know the Number of a Good Locksmith

The first step to ensuring you’re never stranded outside your home is to have the contact information of a reliable locksmith. A professional locksmith can quickly resolve lockout situations and help you regain access without causing damage to your locks or doors. Research locksmiths in your area before you’re in a bind. Look for those with strong customer reviews, transparent pricing, and 24/7 availability. Save their number in your phone and keep a physical copy somewhere safe, like your wallet. Having a trusted locksmith on speed dial provides peace of mind, ensuring you’re prepared for emergencies.

Hide a Second Key on Your Property

A hidden key is one of the simplest and most effective solutions for preventing lockouts, but it must be done wisely. Avoid predictable hiding spots like under the doormat, in the mailbox, or on top of a doorframe, as these are the first places a potential intruder would check. Instead, choose a secure yet discreet location, such as inside a hollow garden decoration or a fake rock designed for hiding keys. Alternatively, install a small lockbox with a combination code somewhere inconspicuous on your property. This method keeps your spare key accessible while maintaining security.

Give a Trusted Person a Spare Key

Sometimes, the best solution is to involve a trusted person in your circle. Give a spare key to a family member, close friend, or neighbor who lives nearby. This ensures that even if you lose your keys or lock yourself out, you can rely on someone dependable to help. However, be selective about who you choose; this person should be trustworthy and available to assist in an emergency. Let them know where the key is kept, and keep them updated if you change locks or rekey your home. This extra layer of backup can save you significant stress in a lockout scenario.

Keep a Bump Key Set on Hand

For those comfortable with learning basic lock-picking skills, a bump key set can serve as a useful tool to prevent lockouts. Bump key tools are specially designed to open most standard locks and can be a lifesaver when you’ve misplaced your primary keys. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with how they work beforehand and use them responsibly. Remember that using bump keys requires caution, as misuse can damage your lock or void warranties. Store your bump key set in a secure, accessible location to ensure it’s available when needed.

Use a Remotely-Opened Smart Lock

Smart locks are a modern and convenient solution to avoid getting locked out. These devices allow you to unlock your door remotely using a smartphone app, eliminating the need for a physical key. Whether you’ve left your keys inside or need to grant access to a friend or family member, a smart lock provides control at your fingertips. Some smart locks also integrate with smart home devices with voice activation, enabling hands-free operation. Features such as activity logs and remote locking/unlocking offer added security and convenience, making smart locks an excellent investment for those prone to forgetting their keys.

Use a Keypad Lock Instead

Keypad locks are another highly effective way to eliminate the risk of lockouts. Instead of relying on a physical key, these locks require a numerical code to unlock your door. By memorizing the code, you ensure that access is always possible, even if your keys are lost or stolen. Keypad locks are especially practical for households with multiple members, as each person can use the same or their unique code. Additionally, many keypad locks allow for temporary codes, making them ideal for granting access to guests, cleaners, or maintenance workers without compromising security. Regularly changing the code and keeping it confidential further enhances protection.

You might not be able to guarantee that you will never leave your keys behind again. However, you can make sure this doesn’t result on you being locked out for hours with the help of the tips above.