Suppose you’re in a rushed mood and as
you’re leaving for work you pull the door shut behind you only
to realize that you’ve locked your keys inside and can’t get back
in! What now? Well, before you start breaking windows or
trying to parkour your way into that second story window you may want to
consider these safer, easier options that won’t result in serious bodily harm:
 |
| Many locks can be picked open by a trained locksmith |
- Don’t Panic: Easier said than done, especially if it’s only 20F outside! Getting locked out of your place sucks and is never something you expect to happen, but your situation can go from bad to worse depending on what you do next
- Get Somewhere Safe: No sense incurring hypothermia while waiting for someone with a key! You can reach out to your neighbors (depending on your relationship with them) or find the nearest open business (if you have your wallet I’d recommend extending them the courtesy of buying something) while you determine your next course of action…just keep in mind that it may be awhile before you get back inside
- Call A Friend: Hopefully you didn’t leave your mobile phone in the house when you closed the door behind you. If your friend, roommate or significant other has a key to your place, then maybe they can help you out. This is much more preferable and cost-effective than calling a locksmith. However, if no one you know can get you back inside your home then it’s time to move to the next step:
- Find A Reputable Locksmith : Use your phone’s browser, or if you can’t access the internet from your phone, then call a friend that has access to the internet. When searching for a locksmith, pay close attention to their website and don’t simply call the first listing you see. Is their website nothing but stock photos of random locks and service people, or does it show pictures of their owner(s)/employee(s) and their work? The latter is usually a good sign. Also, check to confirm that they’re bonded and insured. Again, the key here is to remain calm and not to rush
- Get A Quote: When calling a locksmith, it is important that they can provide you with a price quote before they’re dispatched. Don’t give out your address until they’ve told you what it will cost to get you back inside. You may however be asked what city, town, village or neighborhood you’re located in, as this information is used to determine the mileage for their price quote
Hopefully you will be fortunate
enough not to need any of this information.
However, in the unlikely event that you do, I hope it expedites the
process of you getting back into your home.
