10 Tips to Ensure You do Not Lock Yourself Out

Getting locked out is always a frustrating experience. It wastes time and forces you to deal with unnecessary stress. And what’s worse is that it affects you and others in your household.

Many people feel a bit embarrassed to call their partner, parent, sibling, or roommate who has a spare key to unlock the door. It is also a hassle for them, especially if they are at work or out for the evening. It’s even worse if you get locked out during bad weather or late at night.

Many Australians confess to forgetting to check their keys before going out, which is unsurprising. We all have busy schedules and multitask regularly. Getting locked out of the house is almost unavoidable unless you plan ways to avoid it.

However, this misadventure is easily preventable. Below you will find helpful tips from the experts at Diamond Locksmiths. These suggestions will help you avoid being locked out of your house, apartment, vehicle, or office.

 

1. Check for Your Keys before Leaving the House

You may have heard of the saying that it takes about three weeks for people to create a new habit. Make a point of checking for your keys whenever you are about to leave your house. Creating a new pattern can help significantly.

 

2. Have A Spare Key

Having a spare key is a smart idea, as this can save you the trouble of getting locked out.

However, there are two mistakes people often make regarding their spare keys.

• Hiding the key in an obvious location – People often tuck a spare key under the doormat. This is one of the first places someone would search for a spare key to gain entry to your home. Instead, find a way to work your hidden key into your landscape like a fake rock that safely holds the key and looks inconspicuous. Wherever you decide to hide your key, make sure it is somewhere you can safely get to without creating much attention.
• Only one spare key – If possible, have two or even three spare keys. You never know when the person with your spare key may go out of town or be unreachable when you need your key. Of course, you must be sure you trust the people getting your key.

 

3. Request for Replacement Keys

If you place your spare key outside, exposure to temperature and weather changes can cause problems with the key. For example, a key may warp or break after a few winters. Your best course of action is to plan on having extra replacement keys available to you.

 

4. Have A Specific Place Where You Store Your Keys

Keeping your keys safe inside and outside the house is straightforward. Many homeowners lose their keys inside the house. They often do not have specific areas in their home where they leave their keys and may toss them on the table, couch, or anywhere convenient. Unfortunately, when it is time to leave the house, a search for the missing keys occurs.

Some people solve this issue with a key cabinet or board where they hang their keys. These help homeowners find and store their keys almost effortlessly. However, many people prefer to keep their keys out of sight. One solution is to use an interior safe. Your keys are out of sight but still within reach. Exterior safes are another option for key storage. Place it in an inconspicuous location, and your keys are safe but accessible to you.

 

5. Ensure Your Locks Are in Good Condition

While locks ensure homes get adequate protection and are strong enough to withstand constant use, they will deteriorate over time. Locks are not designed to work forever. They can also fail, especially if you’re using a low-quality one. One of the most significant clues of a malfunctioning lock is that it does not budge despite using the correct key.

Trying to use force to open an already stuck lock often results in the key breaking. And in most cases, a broken key also damages the lock mechanism. No number of spare keys can resolve this problem. So, maintaining your locks and ensuring proper function can help prevent a lockout.

 

6. Invest in a Key Finder

If you lose your keys because you keep forgetting where you left them, it’s probably best to get a key finder. Also called a key locator or an electronic finder, the main task is to help you find your missing key without too much effort.

To use, you attach the key finder to your key, and it becomes easier to locate the lost key. Depending on the product, your key finder could be connected to your smartphone. This makes it easy to find your missing key.

Some key finders come in two segments. To use this type of key finder, you attach one piece to your key and the other piece is the trigger. Often the trigger will have a button to activate the alarm on the other part. You follow the sound of that alarm to find your key. Getting a key finder is a good idea if you keep losing your key and believe you left it somewhere in the house.

 

7. Get a Programmable Lock

A popular high-tech option that you can try is a programmable lock. A programmable lock also called an electronic lock, eliminates your need for a key and your worries about getting locked out because of a misplaced key. Generally, programmable locks use a card with an RFID chip. But you may also have a PIN as a backup if you lose the card. This type of lock is an excellent investment.

 

8. Have a Backup Plan

Sometimes an alternative plan is a good idea. For instance, some people slightly open an upstairs window without making it look inviting. The plan is to have a ladder available (but out of sight) so they can climb up to that window. An idea like this may be helpful for you.

 

9. Keep a Spare Key on You

Have an extra copy of a key made to keep in your purse, briefcase, or wallet. Doing this ensures that a key goes with you when you leave your home. If you are someone who does not usually carry a bag, slipping a key in the pocket of your favourite jacket can help. Just make sure it is secured and will stay in place.

 

10. Combination Lockbox Hidden Outside

Hiding a spare key in a lockbox rather than just outside helps some people feel more secure. Using a combination instead of a key helps lessen the chances of forgetting the key that will get you to your house key. Another essential point, put the spare key in the lockbox immediately after you have unlocked your door.

 

Contact Diamond Locksmiths

Even if you haven’t been locked out, it’s always possible. Many people forget to have their keys with them. They remember after closing the front door or arriving at their destination. Regardless of the circumstances, getting locked out is a stressful situation.
If you are locked out and need assistance, remember Diamond Locksmiths offer emergency services 24/7.