Open Up: The Fascinating World Of Locks, Keys And Safes
How To Prevent a Car Lockout
Lumi Perala
Car lockouts happen frequently, and when you least expect them. You can get locked out after you lose your car keys, the car lock jams, or when your transponder's fob malfunctions. If you don't have a spare key on hand, only a locksmith can save you from this unfortunate situation.
Luckily, you can prevent lockout incidences with the following tips.
Always Have Your Keys With You
A car lockout will happen if you leave your car keys in the ignition switch, on the dashboard or on a chair, and then the door locks. Some vehicles come equipped with a beep function that notifies you if you leave your keys in the ignition. But if yours doesn't, you should make it a habit to take the keys out of your car ignition and carry them with you before you leave your car.
To ensure you don't forget your car keys, always put them in a purse or pocket. Also, if you get into your vehicle then rush out to get something from the house, don't close the door or leave keys in the ignition because your car might lock itself automatically.
Make Spare Keys
A spare key comes in handy when you misplace the original key. Create duplicates of your car keys and give one to a trusted family member or neighbour. In the event of a lockout, you can ask them to swing by with the spare keys.
Some people keep spare keys in a safe, accessible place in their homes. But this is rather inconvenient because you have to leave your car unattended and travel back home to pick up the spare keys after a lockout.
To avoid such a situation, keep a key in your wallet, purse, or your favourite jacket. That spare key will be helpful if you are in a dangerous situation or an unsafe surrounding. Don't use magnetized spare keys that you store beneath your vehicle because savvy thieves can easily locate them.
Use a Key Fob
If your car has a key ignition system, install a fob so you can easily lock and unlock your vehicle. A key fob utilizes sensor technology to lock or unlock your vehicle, so you will never forget your car keys.
A key fob not only prevents lockouts but also protects your car from theft. Your car's ignition only gets immobilized after transmission of the proper code. Hence, criminals can't easily scan the keys code to unlock your vehicle. On the same note, replace the fob batteries as soon as they run low to avoid lockout incidences in the future.
You can use the above pointers to keep lockouts at bay. If you find yourself in a lockout situation and your friends aren't available to bring a spare key, reach out to a locksmith for help.
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Hello. My dad is a locksmith. When I was growing up, we lived in a house behind the shop. I spent my childhood watching Dad cut keys, open car doors and demonstrate safes. Whether customers came early in the morning or at midnight, I always wanted to see what was going on! I'm a teacher now, but I help Dad when things become hectic. Holiday times are the worst. People lose their keys while they are away or misplace car keys in their hurry to reach the airport! I love being in the shop with all the keys, locks and safes. Dad always has some new product on display. Right now, it's an unbreakable bicycle lock. I started this blog to share my interest in locks, keys and safes with other like-minded souls. I hope you find it fascinating and inspiring. Please turn the key and step inside.