Lockouts can be a frustrating and stressful experience for homeowners. Whether it happens because of a lost key, a malfunctioning lock, or even a simple moment of forgetfulness, getting locked out of your own home is never a pleasant situation. However, the good news is that there are practical steps you can take to prevent lockouts from happening in the first place. In this article, we will explore expert advice from professional locksmiths on how to avoid lockouts and ensure peace of mind when it comes to your home security.
1. Create Spare Keys and Distribute Them Strategically
One of the most effective ways to avoid a lockout is by ensuring that you always have access to a spare key. Professional locksmiths recommend creating multiple spare keys and distributing them in safe, strategic locations. This ensures that, in the event you lose your primary key, you can still easily access your home without the need for an emergency locksmith.
- Trusted Neighbors or Friends: Leave a spare key with a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member who lives nearby. This way, you can quickly retrieve your key when needed without having to rely on outside assistance.
- Secure Lock Boxes: Another option is to invest in a secure, weatherproof key lock box that can be mounted outside your home. These boxes are often equipped with a combination lock, allowing you to securely store a spare key that can be accessed only by you or others you trust.
While these solutions offer convenience, it’s important to choose a discreet location for your spare keys. Avoid hiding them in obvious places like under the doormat or in a flower pot, as these are common first places burglars look.
2. Opt for Smart Locks with Keyless Entry
If you’re looking to enhance the security of your home while reducing the risk of lockouts, installing a smart lock is an excellent solution. Many smart locks come with keyless entry options, such as smartphone apps, biometric access, or key codes, which eliminate the need for traditional keys altogether.
- Phone-Based Access: With smart locks that use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, you can unlock your door using a smartphone app. No more worrying about lost or forgotten keys. Just make sure to keep your phone charged and ensure that the app is working correctly.
- Keypads and Biometric Access: Some smart locks come with a keypad, allowing you to enter a PIN code to unlock your door. Alternatively, locks that use biometric data, such as fingerprint recognition, offer a high level of security and eliminate the need for keys entirely.
- Remote Control: For added convenience, some smart locks allow you to control access to your home remotely. This feature can be particularly useful if you need to grant entry to a family member or service provider while you’re away from home.
Smart locks not only reduce the likelihood of a lockout but also increase the security of your home, making them a smart investment for modern homeowners.
3. Regularly Maintain and Lubricate Your Locks
Over time, locks can wear down, become misaligned, or develop issues that make them more prone to malfunction. A malfunctioning lock can lead to a lockout, as you might find it difficult to turn the key or unlock the door. Professional locksmiths recommend regular maintenance and lubrication to ensure that your locks remain in good working order.
- Lubrication: Over time, dust and dirt can build up inside a lock, causing it to become stiff or difficult to turn. To prevent this, use a graphite or silicone-based lubricant to keep the moving parts inside your lock operating smoothly. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as these can attract dirt and grime.
- Lock Inspections: Periodically inspect your locks to ensure they are aligned properly and functioning correctly. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, such as a sticky or misaligned lock, it’s best to have it repaired or replaced by a professional locksmith before it becomes a problem.
- Key Duplication: If you have multiple keys for the same lock, ensure they are all duplicates made from a high-quality key cutting service. Poorly cut keys can wear out the internal components of the lock, leading to eventual issues.
By taking proactive steps to maintain your locks, you can significantly reduce the risk of a lockout caused by mechanical failure.
4. Get into the Habit of Double-Checking Your Keys
One of the most common reasons for lockouts is simply forgetting your keys inside or leaving them in the lock. While this may seem like a trivial mistake, it can quickly turn into an inconvenience when you find yourself locked out. To prevent this from happening, establish a routine to double-check that you have your keys with you before leaving your home.
- Designate a Key Spot: Have a specific place where you always keep your keys, whether it’s in your purse, pocket, or a designated key holder by the door. By making it a habit to check this spot before leaving, you reduce the chances of forgetting your keys at home.
- Use a Keychain Tracker: If you tend to forget your keys frequently, consider using a Bluetooth tracker attached to your keychain. These small devices can be connected to an app on your phone, alerting you if you leave your keys behind or forget to grab them before heading out.
- Keep a Spare in Your Vehicle: If you regularly find yourself locked out, it might be helpful to keep a spare key in your car. Many people forget to grab their house keys but remember to bring their car keys, so having a spare key in the vehicle ensures you always have a backup option if needed.
5. Have a Professional Locksmith on Speed Dial
Despite your best efforts, sometimes lockouts are inevitable. In these cases, it’s important to have a trusted professional locksmith who can respond quickly and efficiently to get you back into your home. A reputable locksmith will have the necessary tools and experience to unlock your door without causing damage.
- Emergency Locksmith Services: Many locksmiths offer emergency services, including 24/7 lockout assistance. Keep the contact information of a reliable locksmith handy so you can quickly reach them if you’re ever locked out of your home.
- Key Recovery: If you lose your keys or suspect they’ve been stolen, a locksmith can rekey your locks, ensuring that no one can gain unauthorized access to your home. Rekeying is often a more affordable option than replacing the entire lock.
- Security Consultation: If you’re frequently experiencing lockouts, it might be worth consulting a locksmith for advice on how to improve your home’s security. They can suggest solutions such as upgrading to more reliable locks, installing a smart lock system, or reinforcing entry points to make your home more secure.
6. Consider Installing a Keyless Locking System
Keyless entry systems are becoming increasingly popular due to their added convenience and security. Whether it’s a smart lock, key fob, or biometric access, keyless systems allow you to avoid the hassle of keys altogether. By installing a keyless system, you eliminate the risk of losing your keys or accidentally locking them inside your home.
Final Thoughts
Lockouts don’t have to be a regular occurrence if you take proactive steps to avoid them. By creating spare keys, investing in smart locks, maintaining your locks, and adopting good key habits, you can significantly reduce the chances of being locked out of your home. However, if you ever find yourself in need of assistance, having a trusted locksmith on hand can ensure that you get back into your home quickly and safely.