How to Handle a Lockout Situation

Any time you have trouble with your door locks, you should do something about it immediately. This is something that our locksmiths at Summerville Locksmith in Summerville, SC didn’t think we would have to tell people that they should do. There are many different reasons why someone might find themselves locked out. We will tell you about the many different scenarios that people encounter that will help them get out of this predicament as quickly as possible without further frustration. By being familiar with the different lockout situations, you’ll be able to act quickly to get yourself out of the situation. A lockout usually occurs at the most unexpected times. This is what makes the problem feel even worse. Really, is there any time that is a good time to be locked out!

Here are the most common reasons that people may find themselves locked out:

Using Old Keys – Keys should be replaced if they are not fitting into the door properly or if it is difficult to pull it out. Since most people use their keys practically every day, it is not unusual for them to begin to wear out over time. This is more obvious when the key becomes problematic to use. You may not even notice that your key is wearing. However, if you suspect a problem with your keys, you should call on a locksmith to replace them.

Jammed Pins – Occasionally, the pins in the lock jam. When this occurs, it will be difficult to turn the key inside your lock. You can easily fix this problem by spraying a silicone lubricant into the locking mechanism. In most cases, this will do the trick. If this doesn’t resolve the problem then it may be necessary to rely on the services of a locksmith. When you rely on our locksmith, they will typically do the same thing, spray a silicone-based lubricant into the locking mechanism. When this is performed several times a year, it can reduce the chance of pins becoming jammed.

 

What You Can Avoid

If your key doesn’t easily fit into the keyhole then do not force it. If you force the key inside it may break in the lock. When you find yourself in a hurry, it’s easy to ignore this and simply yank the key out and before you know it, the key has broken off inside the lock. Stop to think about what you are doing and don’t have regrets later. If you’re experiencing a problem with your key coming out gently wiggle the key back out forth to loosen it and slide it out. If you jerk it out and it breaks, you’ll be locked out and have to wait for help to arrive.

A locksmith will use a flathead screwdriver to remove the key from the lock. If you try to do this yourself, you could make the problem even worse. You might further damage the lock and then the entire lock may need to be replaced. This is why it is in your best interest to rely on a qualified locksmith to remove the key from the lock. If you are anxious to remove the key and just can’t wait, use a needle-nose plier to carefully remove the key. This can be a serious issue if you don’t know what you’re doing. That is why it may simply be in your best interest to simply rely on the services of qualified locksmith. They have extensive experience in removing keys and can do so without damaging any other parts of your lock.

Don’t Force Entry

When you find yourself locked out of your home or vehicle you should never force your way in. At Summerville Locksmith we discourage anyone from forcing entry. This only makes the situation worse than it already is. In most cases, someone who forces themselves in will typically break out a window. The problem with this is that you’ll now have to contact someone about repairing your window. Unfortunately, when someone finds themselves locked out the only thing that they can think of is how to get back inside. If you don’t have a spare key and want to get back in, do yourself a favor by contacting a 24-hour locksmith. They will be able to get you back inside without incident.

Suggestions for Gaining Access Inside

Have a Spare Key Made – This seems pretty logical but you may be surprised to find out just how many people do not have a spare key. Take the time to stop and think of just how convenient it would be if you had a spare key. With one phone call you’ll be able to get back inside in no time.

Yearly Lock Maintenance – When you are having your vehicle serviced, why not ask them to also check your locks and lubricate them. If there is a lock that is damaged, this would also be a good time to have it replaced.

Many vehicles designed today use a keyless entry system. If this is something that is of interest to you, why not consult with one of our locksmiths to find out more about them and how they work. There are plenty of ways to avoid being stranded and no one knows better than a locksmith. Since locksmiths are called upon to help people gain entry, they are also the best suited to advise them of options for gaining access again. You don’t have to stay stranded for too long when you know what your options are ahead of time. Knowing what to do when you are locked out could also mean the difference in your being safe and secure. If you’re stranded without any way inside your home or vehicle, you could be putting yourself in harm’s way.

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Summerville Locksmith

Locksmith Service 24 Hours a Day
Dispatch Address: 295 A Midland Parkway, Ste 245, Summerville, SC 29485
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Email: help@summervillelocksmith.com
Phone: (843) 271-6390