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Why You Shouldn’t Try to Force a Lock Open During a Lockout

Why you shouldn't force a lock open during a lockout

Getting locked out is one of those things that seems to happen at the worst possible time. Maybe it’s late at night, your phone’s nearly dead, and your takeaway is getting cold in the car. We’ve all been there (or close enough). And in that moment, when frustration kicks in, it can be tempting to just give the door a good shove… or reach for a screwdriver.

But before you start wrestling with your lock, here’s why forcing it open is almost never a good idea.

It’s Easier to Break Something Than Fix It

When people try to break into their own property, things usually go one of two ways:

  • The lock gets damaged beyond repair
  • The door frame or handle ends up cracked, bent, or hanging off

It doesn’t take much. Locks aren’t designed to be brute-forced, especially modern ones. Even a bit of prying with a kitchen knife (yes, we’ve seen that too) can leave you needing a whole new lock and a joiner.

Real example? A customer once called after snapping their front door key clean in half using pliers. They’d watched a video online, gave it a go, and ended up with no key, no entry, and a bent pair of pliers.

You Might Make Things Worse (and More Expensive)

Trying to get in on your own can actually lock things up even tighter. Internal parts can shift or jam, making it harder for even a locksmith to sort out cleanly. In some cases, a lock that could’ve been picked in minutes needs drilling or full replacement, all because of a bit of enthusiastic DIY.

And let’s not ignore the cost. A damaged lock plus repair work is usually way more than a standard emergency locksmith call-out.

It Can Look a Bit... Suspicious

There’s also the not-so-small matter of how it looks. Neighbours might spot you poking at your door with a screwdriver and assume the worst. We’ve had people say, “I swear I live here!” to police officers. It’s awkward. Best avoided.

Some Locks Are Designed to Stop You

Anti-snap, anti-drill, and smart locks exist to make life harder for burglars. Which, oddly enough, makes them harder for you to tamper with too. These aren’t the kind of locks that can be “wiggled open” with a paperclip. In fact, attempting it might trigger further lockout features.

So, What Should You Do Instead?

If you find yourself locked out, here’s a better plan:

  • Stay calm. Panic makes it worse (and no one makes good decisions barefoot on a doorstep)

  • Double check all doors and accessible windows

  • Call a local emergency locksmith. Many offer 24/7 service, and most jobs are sorted without damage

Don’t be shy. This kind of thing happens to loads of people. We’ve been called out by builders, teachers, and even a fellow locksmith (yes, really)

A Smarter Way to Handle It

Getting in touch with an emergency locksmith service might feel like a bit of a defeat, but it’s honestly the quickest, safest, and most cost-effective route. What starts as a simple mistake can turn into splinters, snapped keys, and a headache you didn’t need.

And of course, it saves your door… and your dignity.

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