Getting locked out of your home, office, or business is frustrating—and it always seems to happen at the worst time. Whether you left your keys inside, lost them during the day, or had a lock unexpectedly fail, lockouts can disrupt your plans and put your safety at risk. Fortunately, with a little planning and awareness, you can reduce the chances of being locked out. And if it does happen, knowing what to do next can make the experience far less stressful.
Common Causes of Lockouts
Before we dive into prevention tips, it helps to understand how lockouts usually happen. In our experience, most lockouts fall into a few common scenarios:
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Leaving your keys inside the house or on the counter
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Losing your keys while out and about
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Having your key break off in the lock
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Faulty or damaged locks that suddenly stop working
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Automatic locking doors that click shut behind you
These situations can happen to anyone, regardless of how careful or experienced they are. That’s why prevention matters—and why having a plan can save you time, money, and frustration.
Tips to Avoid Getting Locked Out
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your chances of getting locked out. Here are some tips we recommend to homeowners and business owners alike:
1. Always check for your keys before closing the door
This one sounds obvious, but when you’re rushing out the door or juggling kids, bags, or phone calls, it’s easy to forget. Make a habit of doing a quick mental or physical check before locking the door behind you. A hook or tray near the door for keys can also help reinforce the habit.
2. Use a keyless entry system
Electronic locks and keypad systems eliminate the need for physical keys altogether. With a keypad lock, you can simply enter a code to unlock your door. Some models also offer smartphone access, temporary guest codes, and auto-lock timers for added security. If you’re prone to misplacing keys or live in a household with multiple people, keyless entry is a great solution.
3. Hide a spare key (carefully)
While hiding a key under the doormat is not the safest option, there are secure ways to stash a spare. Consider using a lockbox, leaving a spare with a trusted neighbor, or placing it in a well-hidden, weather-protected area. If you manage rental properties or office spaces, you might also consider a mechanical key vault or digital access system.
4. Duplicate your key and keep one in your car or wallet
Having an extra key stored in your car, desk, or bag can be a lifesaver. Just make sure it’s in a secure location and not something easily identifiable. For example, avoid labeling a keychain with your address. A locksmith can easily cut duplicates for you at an affordable cost.
5. Keep up with lock maintenance
Sometimes lockouts aren’t about keys—they’re about failing hardware. If your lock feels sticky, is hard to turn, or shows signs of wear, have it inspected or replaced before it causes problems. Keeping your locks in good working order is just as important as keeping track of your keys.
What to Do If You’re Locked Out
Even with the best precautions, lockouts still happen. If you find yourself locked out, here’s what to do:
1. Stay calm and assess the situation
It’s easy to panic when you realize you’re locked out, especially late at night or during a busy day. Take a breath and evaluate your options. Is there another door or window that’s open? Do you have a spare key nearby or access to a key held by someone else?
2. Avoid trying to force entry
It’s tempting to try and pop the lock yourself or push through a window, but this can easily lead to damage—or injury. Most locks require specialized tools and techniques to open without harming the door or frame. Attempting to force your way in can result in costly repairs or broken locks.
3. Call a local locksmith you trust
If you’re unable to get in on your own, your best bet is to contact a professional locksmith. Look for someone local, with strong reviews and a commitment to non-destructive entry methods. At M&H Locksmith, we specialize in emergency lockout service and use professional tools to get you back inside safely, often without damaging the lock at all.
4. Be cautious of scams or unlicensed providers
Unfortunately, emergency situations are where dishonest locksmiths often take advantage of people. Always ask for clear pricing before the service begins, and avoid companies that quote extremely low prices over the phone but charge much more on arrival. A reliable locksmith will give you honest information, show up when they say they will, and explain the process before starting work.
Why Call a Locksmith Instead of Trying DIY Methods?
Locksmiths have the proper training, tools, and experience to open locks safely and quickly. Trying to pick a lock yourself (especially with items like credit cards or wire hangers) rarely works and often causes more damage. A locksmith will assess your lock, determine the best approach, and often have you back inside in minutes—without harming the door or the hardware.
Plus, if the reason you’re locked out involves a broken key, jammed lock, or mechanical failure, a locksmith can provide immediate repairs or replacement to prevent the issue from happening again.
When to Consider Replacing or Rekeying After a Lockout
If your lockout involved a lost or stolen key, it’s a good idea to rekey or replace your locks to prevent future unauthorized access. Rekeying is a quick and affordable way to make your existing lock work with a new key. If your lock is damaged or outdated, a replacement might be the smarter option.
If your lockout happened because of a hardware issue, such as a broken latch or sticky deadbolt, a locksmith can also inspect the lock and recommend repairs or upgrades to keep things working smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Lockouts are frustrating, but they don’t have to ruin your day—or your door. A little prevention goes a long way, whether it’s upgrading to a keypad lock, storing a spare, or keeping your locks in good condition. And if you do get locked out, calling a trusted local locksmith is the safest and most efficient way to get back inside.
At M&H Locksmith, we understand how stressful these moments can be. That’s why we offer fast, professional emergency lockout service with a focus on non-destructive entry and honest communication. Whether you’re locked out of your home, business, or even an interior room, we’re just a call or text away.
