Locked out? Don't panic! Here's what to do

Getting locked out of your home can be a frustrating and sometimes scary experience, but it happens to the best of us. The key (no pun intended) is to stay calm and take steps to regain access to your home swiftly and safely.

In this guide, we'll walk you through what to do if you find yourself locked out, providing simple solutions to get you back inside in no time, and we’ll explore a few ways to prevent getting locked out in the future.

What to do if you’re locked out

Step 1: Take a deep breath

Panicking won't help. You already know that, but how to tamp down the panic response? Take a deep breath, or four or five, so you can assess the situation calmly.

Step 2: Check for open windows or doors

Look around to see if there's another point of entry that may be unlocked, such as a window, sliding glass door, or back door (Just don’t try climbing to a second-story window since you would risk serious injury!). You might even be able to squeeze in through a doggie door, but make sure it’s big enough that you won’t get stuck.

Step 3: Call a friend or family member

Reach out to someone who has a spare key to your home – they may be able to come to your rescue and unlock the door for you, or provide you with a safe place to stay until you’re able to get back inside

Step 4: Call a locksmith

If all else fails, you can contact a locksmith who will use specialized tools to safely unlock the door without causing damage.

Prevent future lockouts

Hide a spare key in a secure location

Consider hiding a spare key in a secure outdoor location, such as a lockbox or combination-protected key holder, to prevent future lockouts.

Invest in smart locks

Upgrade to smart locks that offer keyless entry options and remote access control so you can avoid the hassle of traditional keys altogether and, instead of being locked out, you can easily grant access to yourself or others from anywhere.

Conclusion

While getting locked out can be inconvenient, it's not the end of the world. By staying calm and following these steps, you can quickly resolve the situation and prevent future lockouts.