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Imagine coming home after a long day, only to realise you’re locked out. Your keys are nowhere to be found. This happens more often than you might think, and it’s why having a spare key is so important.
The Importance of Having a Spare Key
Avoiding Lockouts
Getting locked out of your home or car is not just inconvenient, it can also be dangerous. Being locked out leaves you vulnerable. But with a spare key, you can avoid the stress and worry that come with being locked out.
If you’re locked out, the first thing you’ll do is search for a locksmith near me. That means you’re at the mercy of any nearby locksmith who is ready to help – but that’ll come at a cost. Emergency locksmith services can be expensive, especially when it comes to out-of-hours callouts.
Most people have a spare key, and by keeping it readily available, you can avoid those costly emergency calls to a locksmith.
Of course, if you live with family members or roommates, everyone will have access to the property without the need to hide keys in risky places. Everyone can come and go as needed without any hassle.
Hiding spaces for spare keys often seem secret to those who do the hiding. But burglars are clued up. They know better than anyone where to look for your spare key.
Your Spare is a Backup for Lost or Damaged Keys
Keys can get lost or damaged. When this happens, having a spare means there’s no need for immediate lock replacement. It buys you some time to deal with the lost or damaged key without having to wait on the doorstep.
How to Store Your Spare Key Safely
Avoid Obvious Hiding Spots
As we’ve mentioned, don’t hide your spare key in obvious places like under the doormat or in a flower pot. These are the first places a burglar will check. Instead, think of more creative and less predictable locations.
Use a Key Lockbox or Family Member
A key lockbox is a secure option that allows you to store your spare key outside your home. The lockbox is typically secured by a code, providing an extra layer of security. Just be sure to place the lockbox in a discreet but accessible location, like near the back door or in an inconspicuous spot on your property. A lockbox can also be helpful for older people to give trusted people or emergency services access to your home.
In this context, another option is to give your spare key to a trusted neighbour or close-by family member. This way, you know your key is in safe hands and can be retrieved quickly in case of an emergency.
Keep a Spare Key in Your Car
If you’re often on the go, storing a spare house key in your car might be a good idea. You can keep it in the glove compartment. Make sure the location is well-concealed to prevent potential theft and make sure there are no documents with your address on to give thieves the address where the key belongs.
Digital Solutions
Smart locks do away with keys altogether and you can’t lose a key that doesn’t exist. If you leave your phone, forget the code, or weirdly somehow lose your fingerprint, smart locks allow you to create temporary access codes. You can also create temporary codes for family members or guests.
What to Avoid When Storing a Spare Key
Publicly Known Spots
We’ve already mentioned this, but don’t hide your key in obvious places that burglars are likely to check. Avoid locations like under the welcome mat, inside a fake rock near the front door, or in the letterbox.
Giving the Spare Key to Too Many People
It’s important to limit the number of people who have access to your spare key. Too many keys floating around can lead to lost or misplaced keys, which increases the risk of getting someone you don’t want inside your property. Keep a record of who has any spare keys and get them back if that person doesn’t need to have them any longer.
Final Thoughts
If you don’t already have a spare key, now is the time to get one made and store it in a safe, reliable place.
Just as important as having a spare key is knowing how to store it securely. Avoid obvious hiding spots and instead opt for a key lockbox or give a spare key to a trusted friend or neighbour. This way if you do get locked out, you’ll find it easier to get back in.
