Emergency lockout checklist: what to do before you panic

It's a situation we all dread — standing outside your home or car, patting every pocket, and slowly realising your keys are not with you. Whether it's a lost set, a snapped key in the lock, or just a door that's decided to slam shut behind you, a lockout can throw your whole day into chaos. However, instead of panicking, follow some tips and connect with a local locksmith in Royston to help you manage the situation smoothly.

A guide to handling the lockout situation

• Double-check the obvious

In the heat of the moment, it's easy to overlook the basics. Check all doors and windows — you might have left another entry point unlocked. If you're locked out of your car, try every door, including the boot. Sometimes, all it takes is a second look to avoid a costly callout.

• Call someone you trust

If you share your home with family or housemates or have a trusted neighbour who holds a spare key, give them a ring. It might save you the hassle and expense of an emergency locksmith visit. For car lockouts, see if a friend or partner has a spare key they can bring to you.

• Stay safe and stay calm

If it's dark or you're in an unfamiliar area, find a well-lit, secure place to wait — maybe a nearby café, petrol station, or even a friendly neighbour's porch. Panic only clouds your judgement, so take a deep breath and keep your head clear.

• Avoid DIY methods

YouTube might make it look easy, but forcing your way into a lock using wire, a credit card, or worse, a brick is likely to cause more harm than good. Damaging the lock or door frame can end up costing far more than a professional fix. Skip the risk — get a proper locksmith in.

• Call a reputable local locksmith in Royston

When it's time to call for help, make sure you choose a trusted, local locksmith. A genuine Royston-based locksmith will respond quickly and won't charge sky-high emergency rates. Look for one with solid reviews, clear pricing, and DBS-checked technicians. Whether it's a front door, garage, or vehicle, a local expert will get you back inside swiftly — often without any damage at all.

• Think ahead for nexttime

Once you're back inside, take a moment to plan your next steps. Consider getting a spare key cut, fitting a key safe, or upgrading to a smart lock system. Many lockouts are preventable with just a little foresight — and your future self will thank you.

Lockouts happen to the best of us — but with the right steps, they don't have to ruin your day. If you're stuck and need quick, trustworthy help, call us. At Templar LockSmith, we offer 24*7 emergency services. Additionally, we have a team of experts to offer services such as repairs, installations, and key replacements. Our experts possess a wealth of knowledge and the necessary tools to provide comprehensive emergency and other assistance.

Call us to book your service now.