🔑 Always Have Spare Keys

• Give a spare to someone you trust: A nearby friend, family member, or neighbor is ideal. In an emergency, you can simply call or visit them for the key.
• Use a lockbox: Invest in a quality lockbox and hide it in a discreet but accessible location outside your home. Make sure only trusted individuals know the code.
• Don’t keep all keys together: Keep at least one spare in a separate place from your main set—such as your work bag, jacket, or another car.

The simplest, most effective way to avoid lockouts is to prepare spares now—before you need them!

✅ Get in the Habit of Double-Checking

• Touch or visually check your keys: Pause at the door and feel for your keys in your pocket, purse, or hand before closing it behind you.
• Establish a ‘keys, wallet, phone’ check: Make a quick mental checklist every time you leave.

Most lockouts happen in a rush or when distracted. A simple moment of awareness can save hours of frustration!

📱 Use Smart Technology

• Keyless entry systems: Upgrade to electronic keypads or smart locks. No keys required!
• Bluetooth trackers: Attach a tracker (like Tile or AirTag) to your keychain to always know their location.
• Remote unlocking for cars: Many new cars let you unlock via manufacturer app or remote service.

Technology is your ally—let it save you from lockout emergencies.

🎯 Organize Your Keys

• Designate a spot for your keys: Use a bowl, hook, or tray near your entryway.
• Avoid “hiding” keys in random places: No pockets in laundry or loose in purses!
• Use bright or bulky keychains: They’re harder to misplace or overlook.

Good organization prevents keys from vanishing into the clutter of daily life.

🚫 Don’t Rely on Obvious Hide-A-Key Spots

Burglars know to check under mats and flowerpots. If you must hide a key, use a quality lockbox with a code or choose a location only you and a trusted circle know about.

🤝 Give Spares to Trusted People

Distribute spare keys to family, close friends, or reliable neighbors. Make sure they are easy to reach in an emergency and don’t mind an occasional late-night call!

🔧 Regularly Inspect and Maintain Locks & Keys

• Lubricate locks annually: Use graphite or silicone-based lubricant for smooth function.
• Replace worn keys: Bent or cracked keys can break off in a lock—replace them early.
• Fix sticking or jamming locks: Don’t wait for a total lockout. Get repairs done promptly.

Many lockouts are caused by malfunctioning hardware. Prevent them with simple maintenance!

🔢 Use Combination Locks Where Appropriate

For backyard gates, sheds, or storage, combination locks eliminate key worries. Just remember the code!

🏡 Teach Family Members & Housemates Good Habits

• Communicate routines: Make sure everyone knows who has keys and how to avoid accidental lockouts.
• Share keypad codes: Give all responsible household members the right codes and update as needed.

Good communication reduces the risk of someone locking you out accidentally.

📝 Plan for the Unexpected

• Save your locksmith’s number in your phone.
• Know who has your spares and how to reach them quickly.
• Have a backup plan for emergencies, like a trusted friend or a secure lockbox.

If all else fails, be ready—preparation turns a crisis into a minor inconvenience!

🚗 Special Tips for Car Lockouts

• Keep a spare car key at home and, if possible, at work.
• Only use magnetic key holders in very low-crime areas and keep them well hidden.
• Never lock the car using the inside button unless you have the key in hand.
• With push-to-start cars, double-check the fob before closing doors.

🏢 For Apartment Dwellers

• Know your building’s lockout policy—some keep spares at the management office.
• Share a key with a neighbor in your building for fast rescue.