Stuck Outside? Avoid These Common Lockout Mistakes
Getting locked out of your home, car, or office is never a pleasant experience. Whether it’s due to a Lost Key, a broken lock, or a malfunctioning key fob, lockouts can happen when you least expect them, and usually at the worst possible times. While the urge to act quickly is understandable, the decisions you make in those first few moments can make all the difference.
In fact, some common reactions can actually make the situation worse or even cost you more in the long run.
In this post, we’ll cover what not to do during a lockout and provide practical, safety-first advice to help you stay calm, avoid damage, and steer clear of locksmith scams.
1. Don’t Panic or Act Out of Frustration
It’s natural to feel frustrated when you’re locked out. You may be in a hurry, standing in the rain, or late for work. But acting out of panic often leads to poor decisions like trying to force your way in, breaking a window, or calling the first number you find online.
What to do instead:
Take a few deep breaths. Assess your surroundings. Think carefully before making any decision. Acting with a clear mind can save you from property damage or unnecessary costs.
Don’t Panic or Act Out of Frustration
2. Don’t Try to Break In
Many people assume they can just “pop a window,” pry open a door, or force a lock with a tool. But unless you are trained and have the right tools, this can easily lead to injuries, damage to your property, or even legal issues if it’s mistaken for suspicious behavior.
Why it’s a bad idea:
- Breaking a window or door may cost far more to repair than a locksmith visit.
- You risk injuring yourself or damaging the lock beyond repair.
- In some areas, neighbors may call the police, assuming a break-in is happening.
3. Don’t Trust Just Any Locksmith Ad
When you’re in a hurry, it’s tempting to call the first locksmith you find on Google. Unfortunately, many fake locksmith listings use misleading ads and lowball pricing to attract desperate customers, only to charge hundreds once on-site.
Red flags to watch for:
- Very low initial quotes
- No business name or location
- Refusal to give a firm price over the phone
- Unmarked vehicles or technicians without identification
What to do instead:
Look for locksmiths who are licensed, insured, and have verified reviews. A Reputable Locksmith will explain the pricing upfront and arrive in a branded vehicle with professional tools.
Don’t Trust Just Any Locksmith Ad
4. Don’t Use DIY Tools Without Knowing What You’re Doing
You may have seen online tutorials or social media videos about unlocking doors with a credit card, bobby pin, or coat hanger. While these techniques may work in rare situations, they can easily damage your lock, door, or weatherstripping, especially with modern security systems.
Safer alternatives:
- Check if a friend or family member has a spare key.
- Call your landlord, property manager, or vehicle roadside assistance.
- Use a professional locksmith service with experience in non-destructive entry.
Don’t Use DIY Tools Without Knowing What You’re Doing
5. Don’t Leave Your Location if You’ve Called for Help
Once you’ve contacted a locksmith or roadside assistance, don’t leave the area, even if it’s taking a while. If you’re not there when help arrives, you may miss your appointment or be charged for a no-show.
What to do instead:
Stay nearby and keep your phone handy in case the technician needs to reach you. If you must step away briefly, leave a visible note or let the locksmith know in advance.
Don’t Leave Your Location if You’ve Called for Help
6. Don’t Forget to Ask for ID and Documentation
A professional locksmith should always be able to present proper identification, licensing (if required in your state), and a written invoice. If someone shows up and refuses to provide credentials, it’s a red flag.
Protect yourself by:
- Asking for identification and business credentials
- Requesting a written estimate before work begins
- Verifying the company online before calling
7. Don’t Delay Getting a Spare Key After the Incident
Once the situation is resolved, many people go back to their normal routine without preparing for the next time. A lockout can be a wake-up call to plan ahead.
Smart steps to take after a lockout:
- Have a spare key made and give it to a trusted friend or neighbor
- Install a lockbox or smart keypad entry system
- Store backup keys securely at home or in your vehicle
Don’t Delay Getting a Spare Key After the Incident
Final Thoughts
Lockouts are frustrating, but they don’t have to turn into costly or risky situations. By avoiding rash decisions and being aware of common mistakes, you can stay safe and protect your property. The most important thing is to stay calm, avoid forcing entry, and contact a trustworthy locksmith.
At Elite Locksmiths, we specialize in Emergency Lockout Services for homes, vehicles, and commercial properties. Our licensed technicians are available to help you regain access quickly and safely, without damaging your locks or doors. If you’re locked out right now, call us for fast, reliable service.
Stay prepared, stay safe, and let the pros handle it.
