Tips to Avoid Home Lockouts

Home lockouts can be very inconvenient. They can be quite dangerous at worst. While you’re busy living your life, chances are that something will slip through the cracks. Your house keys are not one of these things. Millions of people are affected by broken locks, key theft, misplaced keys or simply lose their keys every year. How can you avoid this very common and easily preventable problem?
Learn how you can avoid locking yourself out and improve your home’s safety. These are our tips to prevent home lockouts.

Make it a habit to look after your keys

Prevention is the best option. The best way to avoid problems is prevention. The habit of double-checking your keys should be combined with another routine you do when you leave such as putting the shoes on. Make sure to tie your shoes and search your pockets, purse, and wallet for your keys. These two simple behaviors will become second nature and be instinctive. You will feel more secure in your own home and be better protected.

Look at your keys and locks to find signs of wear

It is important to consider the time since the last lock change, especially if you live alone in an older apartment, condo, home or condo. As you age, locks and keys that have become worn, rusty or more difficult to handle can “lose their grip” and become more difficult to control. This can lead to broken locks or keys, as well other problems. A general rule of thumb is that locks should be changed every 10 years. This may vary depending on whether you travel a lot or if you have other special circumstances.

Keep a spare Key handy

We don’t recommend the traditional “key under the welcome rug” strategy, but we strongly recommend having spare keys easily accessible. You might find it easier to keep a spare car key in your glovebox, the center console of your car or in your handbag. It is best to keep spare keys away from prying eyes. It is important to remember that your keys should be easy to find in an emergency.

Use Exterior Locks Only for Exterior Doors

Some areas of your home like patios, sunrooms, or wash rooms may appeal to you. When used incorrectly, interior locks and knobs can present security risks to your home. For exterior doors, deadlock locks are more appropriate. This can increase your home’s security and keep vulnerable areas at a minimum.

Use a key holder

Spare key storage is a great way to store keys safely and creatively. The variety of discreet key holders available makes them great for hiding keys away without fear. Look out for key holders with shapes like sprinkler heads or flashlights. Be sure to hide the true location of your key from thieves or anyone else who might want to damage your home.

Make sure you choose a trusted person to keep a spare key

You can choose to give a key to someone you trust, if necessary.

You can choose a local neighborhood, family member or friend to keep your key. You can have your key retrieved by someone else if needed. It is important to ensure the person you choose will take care of your personal belongings. They are also available when you need them.

Smart Locks and Keyless Entry

If you find it difficult to remember your keys, a smart lock can help. With keyless entry doorknobs, locks and locks, you can choose a passcode and use it to unlock your doors. Some smart locks even have fingerprint readers and can operate biometrically. You can even create passcodes and master codes for family members or friends. This method of entry eliminates physical keys and increases security in your home. It’s easy to remember the passcode you chose!

Use a phone key holder

An alternative way to protect your keys is to attach a key holder on your smartphone. A separate key holder can be kept in your purse or car. You may also choose to use a smartphone case with a keyholder that will hold your house key, credit cards, and ID. While it makes your keys and valuables easier to locate, this method could make them more vulnerable to theft. Consider your location and safety in areas you frequent.

Keep a Locksmith on Speed dial

No matter if lockouts are a regular occurrence or something that causes you constant anxiety, having a professional locksmith on hand can make it easier to feel secure in the event of being locked out. Locksmiths don’t have to be your first line of defense when you experience lockouts, break-ins, or other emergencies. For general security improvements, such as upgrading security systems and replacing locks, you can ask a locksmith for help. Get peace of mind by finding a professional locksmith close to you.