How to Avoid Getting Locked Out of Your House

Getting locked out of your house is one of those frustrating situations that everyone dreads. Whether it happens during a busy morning or late at night, the inconvenience and stress can disrupt your entire day. Fortunately, with a little planning and forethought, you can significantly reduce the chances of being locked out of your house. In this blog, we’ll explore practical strategies to help you avoid this situation so you’re never left standing outside your door wondering, “How did I get locked out of my house?”

Always Have a Spare Key

One of the most straightforward ways to avoid getting locked out of your house is to have a spare key. However, where and how you store that spare key is crucial. Here are some options:

• Trusted Neighbor or Friend: If you have a trusted neighbor or friend who lives nearby, giving them a spare key can be a safe and reliable option.
• Lockbox: A secure lockbox with a code that only you and a few trusted individuals know is another excellent solution. These can be mounted in an inconspicuous location near your home.
• Hidden in Your Car: Keeping a spare key hidden in your car is an option if your vehicle is always with you and parked securely. However, this might not be ideal in high-crime areas.

Avoid hiding a key under the doormat or in obvious places like under a flowerpot or a fake rock. Burglars are aware of these common hiding spots.

Use a Smart Lock

Smart locks are a modern solution to the age-old problem of being locked out of your house. These electronic locks can be unlocked using a smartphone, keypad, or even biometrics like your fingerprint. Here are some benefits:

• Keyless Entry: With a smart lock, you don’t need to worry about losing or forgetting your keys.
• Remote Access: Some smart locks allow you to lock or unlock your door remotely, making it easy to let someone in even if you’re not home.
• Temporary Access Codes: You can create temporary access codes for guests, workers, or anyone who needs short-term access to your home.

Investing in a smart lock is a practical way to ensure you’ll never find yourself locked out of your house.

Get in the Habit of Double-Checking

Developing the habit of double-checking that you have your keys before leaving the house can save you from many headaches. Here are a few tips:

• Create a Routine: Make it a habit to check for your keys every time you leave the house. This could involve placing them in a designated spot near the door where you can easily grab them on your way out.
• Set a Reminder: If you’re particularly forgetful, consider setting a reminder on your phone that alerts you to check for your keys before you walk out the door.
• Use a Key Holder: Install a key holder near your door and make it a habit to place your keys there as soon as you walk in.

Consistency is key (pun intended) to developing these habits. The more you practice, the less likely you are to get locked out of your house.

Install a Keyless Entry System for Your Garage

If you have a garage that leads directly into your home, consider installing a keyless entry system for your garage door. These systems typically use a keypad that allows you to enter a code to open the garage door. Here’s why it’s beneficial:

• Backup Access: Even if you forget your keys, you can still access your home through the garage.
• Temporary Codes: Similar to smart locks, you can provide temporary codes to guests or service providers without giving them a physical key.
• Increased Security: Keyless entry systems often come with additional security features, such as automatic locking and alert notifications.

This option adds an extra layer of convenience and security to your home, reducing the risk of getting locked out.

Use a Key Finder Device

Key finder devices, such as Bluetooth trackers, can be a lifesaver if you tend to misplace your keys. These small gadgets attach to your keyring and connect to your smartphone via an app. If you can’t find your keys, you can use the app to make the device ring, helping you locate them quickly.

• GPS Tracking: Some key finders also offer GPS tracking, so you can see the last known location of your keys if you left them somewhere outside the home.
• Easy to Use: These devices’ simplicity makes them accessible to anyone, and they can be a great way to prevent getting locked out of your house.

Investing in a key finder device is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with always knowing where your keys are.

Plan for Emergencies with a Locksmith

Even with the best precautions, there’s always a chance that you could still get locked out of your house. Having a reliable locksmith’s contact information saved in your phone can make all the difference in such situations. Here’s how to choose the right locksmith:

• 24/7 Availability: Ensure that the locksmith you choose offers emergency services and is available 24/7.
• Reputation and Reviews: Look for a locksmith with good reviews and a solid reputation in your community.
• Service Area: Make sure the locksmith operates within your area so they can respond quickly in an emergency.

Having a locksmith’s number handy means you won’t have to waste time searching for one when you’re locked out.

Consider a Backup Plan with Family Members

If you live with family members or have roommates, establish a backup plan in case someone gets locked out of the house. Here’s how:

• Shared Schedule: Keep track of each other’s schedules so you know when someone is likely to be home.
• Communication: Use a group chat or messaging app to keep in touch and update each other on your whereabouts.
• Designate a Key Keeper: Designate one person as the key keeper, responsible for ensuring that at least one spare key is always available.

Having a backup plan with those you live with can save time and prevent frustration if someone accidentally gets locked out.

Create a Contingency Plan for Travel

If you’re traveling and worried about getting locked out of your house when you return, take some precautions before you leave:

• Give a Spare Key to a Neighbor: Ensure a trusted neighbor has a spare key in case of an emergency while you’re away.
• Hide a Key in a Secure Lockbox: If you’re not comfortable giving a neighbor a key, consider hiding one in a secure lockbox.
• Check All Locks Before Leaving: Double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked before you depart.

By planning ahead, you can reduce the chances of a lockout situation when returning home from a trip.

Regularly Maintain Your Locks and Keys

Locks and keys require maintenance just like any other part of your home. Over time, keys can wear down, and locks can become difficult to turn. Here’s how to keep them in good condition:

• Lubricate Your Locks: Use a graphite lubricant to keep your locks functioning smoothly. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, which can attract dust and dirt.
• Replace Worn Keys: If you notice that your key is bent, chipped, or worn down, get a new one made. A damaged key can break off in the lock, causing you to get locked out of your house.
• Inspect Your Locks: Regularly inspect your locks for signs of wear and tear. If a lock is difficult to turn or feels loose, it might be time to replace it.

Regular maintenance ensures that your locks and keys function correctly, reducing the risk of a lockout.

Keep Emergency Numbers Handy

In the event that all else fails and you find yourself locked out of your house, having emergency contacts readily available can make a stressful situation more manageable. Here are some numbers to keep on hand:

• Local Locksmith: As mentioned earlier, having a reliable locksmith’s contact information saved is essential.
• Trusted Neighbor or Family Member: Have the contact information of a nearby trusted neighbor or family member who can assist you.
• Emergency Services: In rare cases, you may need to contact emergency services if you’re locked out and in a vulnerable situation.

By keeping these numbers handy, you’ll be prepared to handle a lockout efficiently.

Conclusion

Getting locked out of your house is an inconvenient and stressful experience, but it’s also preventable. By implementing the strategies discussed in this blog—such as keeping a spare key, using a smart lock, maintaining your locks and keys, and having a reliable locksmith on call—you can significantly reduce the risk of finding yourself locked out of your house.

Remember, the key (pun intended) is to plan ahead and take proactive steps to ensure you’re never left standing outside, locked out of your house. By being prepared, you can avoid the frustration and inconvenience of a lockout and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you have a plan in place.

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