So many of us have been there. Whether it’s a miscommunication between you and your family members, or an early morning “brain fart,” we frantically search our pockets for our keys just to feel our heart sink as we realize that we’re locked out. If this hasn’t happened to you yet, congratulations! But you can’t afford to get too comfortable, because it seems almost inevitable that it happens to all of us eventually.
The best thing you can do is be properly prepared. Give a spare key to a trusted friend or hide it somewhere on your property. Find yourself a reliable locksmith before you need one so you can verify their legitimacy and find a good price. But if you haven’t done either of these things and you find yourself locked out of your home, don’t panic- try a few of these tips for getting into your home when you’re locked out.
1. Swipe Your Card
You may have seen this method on TV. If you have a standard issue doorknob lock (not a deadbolt) you can use an old credit card or other laminated card that you no longer care about. Slide your card between the door and frame just above the latch, and then wiggle the card down into the area where the latch should be. Push the card away from the door to push the latch in. If this works, then great! You’re in. But you might want to consider calling a locksmith to upgrade your lock, as this means your door is not terribly secure.
2. Remove the Door Handle
Depending on the type of door handle you have, you may be able to remove it from the outside. Search for a small hole on the side of or below your doorknob. Stick a thin metal tool (like a bent paper clip) in this hole as far as you can and maintain pressure while you twist the doorknob. Keep this up for long enough, and the doorknob should come off. You won’t be able to do this with all doorknobs, and it won’t work if a deadbolt is engaged.
3. In Through the Window
If you’re on ground level and have windows that you could climb into, it’s worth checking to see if they’re unlocked.
If you’re not able to break in by yourself, you can rest easy knowing that your home is very secure- but you’ll want to hire a locksmith to help you out. When you’re in need of a reliable, local locksmith, call Knowell’s Lock and Safe 24 hours a day at 904-387-0042.