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A Short Guide About What To Do If You Are Locked Out Of Your House

Are you standing outside the front door of your own house, realizing you're locked out? As a company that has been resolving such situations for over 35 years, we definitely understand how frustrating this can be. However, you’re not alone – millions of Americans have been there, and the good news is, there’s always a way back in.

Whether it’s 9 a.m. on a weekday or 11 p.m. on a weekend, getting locked out of your house is never convenient, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. Wondering what to do if locked out of the house? There are simple solutions that we're glad to share with you in this blog post. And if those don’t work, you can always call in the professionals with emergency lockout services to save the day.

Immediate Steps to Take When Locked Out

First things first – don’t beat yourself up! We all make mistakes. Moreover, just a few easy steps can make all the difference.
Well, let’s get you back inside your property:
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
Take a deep breath. Before jumping into action, take a moment to really assess the situation. Is there someone nearby who can help? Do you have your phone? Are you safe? It’s tempting to try and fix things immediately, but slowing down will help you think more clearly and avoid making rushed decisions that could make things worse.
2. Avoid DIY Solutions
We know you’re probably tempted to try how to unlock a house without a key using a credit card or a hairpin, but trust us – those tricks rarely work on modern locks and could end up damaging your door. Plus, let’s be real, nobody wants a bent credit card or a broken lock! It’s safer and easier to leave it to the pros.
3. Check for a Spare Key
Did you give a spare key to a neighbor, friend, or family member? If you did, you’re in luck! Now’s the time to make that call and get back inside in no time. If not, it’s time to take care of duplicating your keys for emergencies like a sudden lockout situation.
4. Contact an Expert Locksmith
If the spare key option doesn’t pan out and you’re ready to move on from DIY attempts, it’s time to call in the experts. Emergency lockout services are available 24/7, so whether it’s 2 a.m. or 2 p.m., professionals have got you covered. Fast, professional, and hassle-free!
house Locked Out
house Locked Out

Safety Tips While Waiting for Assistance

Once you have called for emergency services and help is on the way, you might wonder: What’s next? While you wait, there are a few things you can do to stay safe and calm, especially if it’s late at night or you’re feeling a little uneasy about standing outside.
1. Stay Visible in a Safe, Well-Lit Area
If it’s dark or you’re in a place where you don’t feel comfortable standing by yourself, find a nearby café or well-lit area where you can wait. If you’re at home during the day, perhaps chat with a friendly neighbor while you wait.
2. Inform Someone You Trust
If you’re locked out at an odd hour or in an unfamiliar area, it’s a good idea to let a friend or family member know where you are. Not only does this help ease your nerves, but it’s also a good safety precaution. A quick text or call can go a long way in making sure someone knows you're safe while you wait for assistance.
call a locksmith
3. Try To Distracted
Let’s face it, waiting can be boring and nerwe-wrecking. Use this time to keep yourself distracted – scroll through social media or catch up on that podcast you’ve been meaning to finish. Just make sure your phone has enough battery in case you need to communicate with the locksmith or call a friend.
4. Don’t Try to Force Your Way In
You might feel tempted to break a window or force a door open (especially when frustration starts to set in). However, resist the urge! Not only can you hurt yourself, but the cost of repairs could easily end up being far more expensive than the lockout service itself. Trust us, we’ve seen it before!
call a locksmith

Preventing Future Lockouts

If you've ever faced a lockout situation, you can probably agree that once is more than enough, right? Prevention is always better than the cure, so here are a few handy tips for preventing home lockouts in the future:
1. Invest in a Spare Key or Keyless Entry
Spare keys are lifesavers, and hiding one in a safe place outside your home is a simple solution. However, a keyless entry system might be even better. With smart locks, all you need is your phone or a code to get inside.
2. Routine Checks Before Leaving
Do you know that moment when you tap your pockets to check for your phone or wallet? Make that same routine check for your keys. Trust us, it'll become second nature over time. A quick 2-second pat-down is much easier than being stuck outside for hours.
3. Get Your Locks Serviced Regularly
Did you know that worn-out locks are one of the most common reasons for lockouts? Old or faulty locks can jam, leaving you locked out even if you have your key. Regular maintenance by a professional residential locksmith ensures your locks are in good working order and can save you from a lockout nightmare in the future.
new doorknob on old door
new doorknob on old door

Summing Up

Getting locked out is definitely frustrating, but it doesn’t have to ruin your whole day. Hopefully, this guide has given you a clear idea of what to do if you’re locked out of the house, and – better yet – how to avoid it next time. And remember, if you ever need a hand, Sure Lock & Key is just a call away with our emergency house lockout services. We’re here to make sure you’re never stuck outside for long!

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