Locked Out? Here's What NOT to Do

William Warrn • July 9, 2025

Getting locked out is never fun. You're stressed, maybe late, and want to get inside fast. But before you try anything crazy, stop and think. Some "quick fixes" can cost you way more than calling a professional.

Here's what you should never do when locked out.

Don't Try to Break Down Your Door

Your door looks weak when you're angry. But doors are stronger than you think. Trying to kick or shoulder your way in can lead to:

  • Broken bones
  • Damaged door frames
  • Expensive repairs
  • Still being locked out

Save your body and your wallet. This almost never works.

Don't Use Credit Cards on Modern Locks

You've seen it in movies. Someone slides a credit card and opens a door. Real life is different. Modern locks won't budge with a card. You'll just:

  • Break your credit card
  • Scratch your door
  • Waste time
  • Still be stuck outside

This old trick only works on very old, loose locks.

Don't Try to Pick the Lock Yourself

Lock picking looks easy online. It's not. Without proper tools and training, you'll likely:

  • Break your lock
  • Get stuck keys inside
  • Damage the door
  • Make the problem worse

Professional Hot Springs locksmiths have the right tools and know-how.

Don't Break Windows

Breaking a window seems like an easy way in. But this creates bigger problems:

  • Expensive glass replacement
  • Security risks
  • Possible injuries from broken glass
  • Still need to fix the lock

Windows cost more to replace than locksmith calls.

Don't Climb Through Small Openings

Pet doors, bathroom windows, or basement entries might look tempting. Don't risk it. You could:

  • Get stuck halfway
  • Fall and get hurt
  • Damage property
  • Look suspicious to neighbors

Your safety is worth more than a few minutes of waiting.

Don't Use Coat Hangers on Car Locks

Cars today have complex locking systems. Coat hangers can:

  • Damage weather stripping
  • Scratch paint
  • Trigger airbags
  • Cost hundreds in repairs

Modern cars need modern solutions.

Don't Wait Too Long to Call for Help

Pride keeps people from calling locksmiths. This makes things worse. The longer you wait:

  • The more frustrated you get
  • The more likely you'll try dangerous things
  • The later professional help arrives
  • The more your day gets ruined

What You SHOULD Do Instead

When you're locked out, here's your best plan:

  1. Stay calm- Take a deep breath
  2. Check all entry points- Look for unlocked doors or windows you left open
  3. Call a professional- Contact reliable locksmith services
  4. Wait in a safe place- Stay warm/cool while help comes

Why Professional Help is Worth It

Professional locksmiths can:

  • Open locks without damage
  • Work quickly and safely
  • Fix problems you can't see
  • Give advice about better security

Whether you're in Hot Springs or Hot Springs Village , professional help is just a phone call away.

The Bottom Line

Being locked out is stressful. But don't let stress make you do something you'll regret. Quick fixes usually create bigger problems.

Save yourself time, money, and headaches. Call a professional locksmith first, not last.

Your future self will thank you when you're safely inside with no damage and no extra costs.

Need help getting back inside? Our team provides fast, reliable service throughout the Hot Springs area. We'll get you back in quickly and safely.