There's nothing quite as stressful as realizing you've lost or misplaced your house key. Fortunately, keeping an emergency key on hand ensures easy access to your home in the event of a lockout. However, it also poses serious security risks if it gets into the wrong hands. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to follow to keep your spare key safe from unwanted guests.

Do:

Rely on a trustworthy neighbor.

If you leave a key somewhere on the exterior of your home, there's always a risk that someone else will find it. One of the easiest ways to avoid this issue is by leaving it with one of your neighbors. However, be selective with this choice, or it could have the opposite effect. Only choose someone you know well, and make sure you have all of their information, including full legal name and phone number.

Get creative.

The need to create a secure spot for an emergency lockout key has resulted in a variety of unique designs by both residents and manufacturers. Many companies now sell containers that conceal keys incredibly well, like faux hornet nests, rocks, and outdoor thermometers. If you prefer to get your own creative juices flowing, consider securing an extra key to the inside of a birdhouse or attaching it to fishing line and gently pushing it under a seam on your siding.

Don't:

Put it in a common spot.

The doormat has long been a top hiding spot for extra keys, but it's a location that thieves caught on to long ago. A common second choice is a flower pot next to the door, which is just as apparent to intruders. Along with avoiding these locations, make sure to choose a spot away from your door and front porch to reduce the risk of someone finding it.

Tell anyone the location of your hiding spot.

Regardless of how impressed you are with your choice, it's imperative that only individuals that live at the residence know where the key is located. A slip of the tongue or accessing the lockout key in front of guests or neighbors puts your home's security at risk. For this reason, it's vital that you stress the importance of secrecy and discreetness on your roommates or family members, especially if you have children.

 

If you’re locked out, A-Okay Lock & Key in St. Peters, MO, offers affordable and convenient around-the-clock emergency locksmith service. From homes and vehicles to businesses, the family-owned and -operated company has built a reputation for fast and dependable work throughout Lincoln, St. Charles, and Warren counties. Learn more about their lockout and lost keys services online, or request immediate assistance today at (636) 441-1190.