Locking yourself out of the house is one of the most stressful and frustrating things that anybody will ever do.
Having said that, the harsh reality is that most people will do it at least once in their lifetime.
Whether you’re reading this on your iPhone after locking yourself out of you simply wish to prepare yourself for any future mishaps, the following tips are just for you.
Look For An Opening
Let’s face it; burglars can find a way into properties without a key. It’s possible that you might be able to too. Take a walk around your property to check for open windows that you may be able to open to regain access to the property. Alternatively, you may find that the back door is unlocked.
If you have a PVC door that requires locking from the outside, you’ll be shut out rather than locked out. In this case, it may be possible to use a long stick or a hooked object to open the door by putting your hand through the letterbox. Sadly, this isn’t an option for all door types.
Try The Credit Card Trick
Another quick solution that is worth attempting is the credit card trick. Take any plastic card (credit card, driving license, store card, etc.) and wedge it in the gap of the door frame. Do this while jiggling the doorknob and you may have an opportunity to push the lock in and prize the door open.
It may be worth asking a neighbour to help out. They could hold a second plastic card in an attempt to knock the lock mechanism free while you try to get the door open. On a separate note, if anybody questions you, your neighbour can confirm that you are genuinely the homeowner or tenant.
Force Entry
It may seem a little drastic but breaking the door down or smashing a window may be necessary. Situations that require this approach include locking yourself out when your baby is left inside or when the bath or cooker are running. If you need to get inside to prevent danger, do it.
While it may feel tough, try to make a calculated decision. Replacing the standard size windowpane will cost far less to replace than breaking a unique shaped panel in the door. However, you also need to think about the practicality of getting into the home as well as covering the gap until it is fixed.
Call A Locksmith
Admitting defeat is never enjoyable. However, accepting that you need professional help right away is far better than realising it in a few hours time. If you are out on your way to work, arranging for a locksmith to meet you after work is fine. Or if you need to get in now, emergency locksmiths are available.
When taking this route, though, you need to choose wisely. Selecting MLA Approved Locksmiths Bristol ensures that you’ll receive the very best work in the quickest time in your area and at an affordable price. The methods used to gain entry will depend on the situation, but the experts will get you back in.
Learn From Your Mistakes
Regardless of the methods used to regain access to the home, it’s vital that you learn from this episode. Life is so hectic and stressful that you could easily lock yourself out again at some point in the future. With the right precautions in place, it needn’t cause any major disruption to your day.
If you are on good terms with your neighbours, leaving a spare key with them is a good option. Alternatively, your closest relative is a good option. Other solutions include storing a golf club in the garden for opening the handle on a PVC door. The last thing you should do, though, is leave a key in the yard.
Install A Smart Lock
In addition to the standard precautions used to prevent future issues, you may want to consider installing a smart lock. This is a type of advanced digital lock that can be connected to your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to gain access without the key as long as you have the right credentials.
This is still a very safe entry point as nobody else can steal your fingerprint, for example. This is another area where advanced locksmiths can guide you through the process. This covers everything from installations to showing you how the features work. You will feel as safe as houses in no time.
Photo by Evelyn Paris on Unsplash
