An after-hours lockout is any lockout outside normal business hours: late at night, early in the morning, on weekends or on holidays. Here is what a professional locksmith does when you call.
Assessing the situation
On the phone, the locksmith asks about the lock type, whether the key is lost or locked inside, any visible damage, and whether a child or pet is inside. If someone vulnerable is locked in a car, call 911 first.
Confirming who you are
Before opening anything, the technician checks that you live at the address or own the vehicle. It may feel like a delay, but it protects you from someone else doing the same thing to your home.
Non-destructive entry first
Most standard locks can be opened without damage using picks or bypass tools. Drilling is a last resort, used for high-security or faulty locks, and a good locksmith explains the cost before doing it.
Rekeying or replacing afterwards
If your keys are lost or stolen, rekeying the lock on the same visit makes the old keys useless. If the lock was damaged, the technician can replace it with comparable or upgraded hardware.
How to prepare for the unexpected
- Save a local locksmith's number in your phone.
- Keep a spare key with someone you trust.
- Consider a keypad lock with a mechanical override.
- Keep a programmed spare car key at home.
Locked out after hours in Cincinnati? Call 513-714-5185.
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