Whether you accidentally closed the door or misplaced your key, getting locked outside of the house can be frustrating. Keep a level head while dealing with this situation; mistakes happen, and locksmiths resolve these problems all the time. Here’s how to handle the situation rationally, so you can safely get back inside.

What to Do First

Walk around the house to see if there are any open windows or other unlocked doors. You can also contact someone who may have a spare key if you’ve shared a duplicate with anyone, or ask someone who lives with you if they can help you out of the bind.

If you’ve exhausted those options, don’t try to unlock the door by yourself. Using remedial tricks may end up causing damage that requires lock repairs. Instead of fiddling with these sensitive components, have a locksmith handle the situation cleanly and promptly.

How to Avoid Future Lockouts

If no one else has a copy of your key, consider sharing a duplicate with a trustworthy family member or friend. They should be relatively accessible, so if you’re locked out again, they can quickly come to your rescue. A trusted neighbor is a smart choice for that reason.

You can also create a routine to reduce the risk of leaving your keys at home. Designate a specific place near the door, such as a tray, basket, or key hook, for your keys to reside. Attach a substantial keychain, so it’s difficult to lose.

Finally, have a locksmith repair any damaged locks that may wear down and become difficult to open even with a key. Sometimes, it’s as simple as reengaging the bolt or lubricating moving parts. In other instances, you may need to replace the entire lockset. Either way, you can avoid unexpected lockouts by taking proactive measures.

If you’re locked out of the house, let the team at Cohen’s Key Shop in New Haven County, CT, help. Serving the community since 1897, this venerable company is committed to your satisfaction. The locksmiths offer a variety of services, including key duplication, door lock repairs, and rekeying. Visit them online for more information on their capabilities, or call (203) 397-3528 to schedule an appointment.