What to Do in Different Lockout Situations

Vehicle Lockouts

Vehicle lockouts, whether from cars, trucks, or SUVs, are one of the most common service calls your average Wheaton, IL, locksmith is called in to assist with. Vehicle lockouts can happen at any time of the day or night, depending on the circumstances. They are usually the most frustrating when they occur at night after a long day at work or a quick trip out to the store. You find yourself alone in a desolate parking lot and unsure of who to call. Many vehicles have security features that automatically lock the doors and windows when you are away from the vehicle. If this is the case with your car, truck, or SUV, then you won’t be able to get in easily if your keys are missing. In this situation, it’s best to call on the services of a trustworthy, professional locksmith company. Locksmiths have the tools and training necessary to be able to resolve all types of vehicle lockouts, working with the specifics of different makes and models to prevent damage during the process.

Home Lockouts

Being locked of your own home can be unsettling and even embarrassing. You may worry about what the neighbors will think if they see you circling your own home like a prowler, looking for a way in. No matter what time of the day or night, all you want is to get back inside. First, check to make sure that none of your windows or doors have been left open. If so, that can provide an easy way to get inside. Even if your window is only open a crack, you may be able to send your child or another diminutive family member inside to open the locks for you. Of course, if your keys are missing or have been stolen, they will still need to be replaced, and if the latter is true of your situation, you should also consider having your locks rekeyed or changed to prevent the thief from having open access to your home. If everything is locked up tight, the best thing to do is to contact a professional locksmith company as soon as possible. A locksmith technician will be able to get you back inside your home without damaging your locks or door.

Apartment Lockouts

If you find yourself locked out of your apartment, your first step should be to contact your landlord to see if they can let you back inside. Usually the landlord will have access to a set of master keys that will allow them into any of the properties that they are renting. While this prospect might seem embarrassing, it’s still worth considering. However, your landlord might not live nearby so that may not be an option for you. If that’s the case, a call to a professional locksmith is probably in order for best results.

Business Lockouts – Keyed Entry

Every type of business—from shopping centers to office buildings—use some form of lock security to protect their assets. If your business uses traditional locks and keys, which is often the case for small local businesses, then it can cause a major headache if they become lost, stolen, or the key breaks off in the lock. If you or an employee locks you out of your commercial property, it can cause you to lose money if you have to turn away potential customers and clients. It’s crucial to resolve a business lockout as soon as possible to avoid this happening. First, make sure that none of your other employees or business partners have spare keys.

Business Lockouts – Keyless Entry

Nowadays, most modern businesses utilize keyless entry technology to protect their commercial assets and property from unwanted access and theft. Keyless entry systems include card key readers, keypad locks, and biometric locks that use physical data like fingerprints to grant access to a select few. These technological systems provide excellent security coverage. However, the same great security that keeps thieves out will keep you out if you forget your credentials or otherwise have issues. If you can’t resolve the situation yourself, contact a locksmith.

No matter the specific details of your lockout situation, usually the best course of action is to contact a professional locksmith for assistance. Be sure to investigate the options for locksmith services in your area be you settle on your final decision. The right company will have a solid reputation and be available 24/7 at an affordable cost to assist you. Locksmiths also recommend keeping a spare key for every important key you have for your various properties, and a professional locksmith company can assist you with this as well so you never have to worry about a lockout again.