Be prepared: Find a local locksmith today, before you need one! Keep the company’s contact information with you. Put the emergency lockout service information in your purse or wallet, keep it in your car too. (if you are locked out of your home, you will be waiting in your car for the service tech). Keep a spare sets of keys to a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor who lives nearby. For safety, do not hide spare keys outside your home, under your mat or in car.
Check out the company’s reputation and website. Legitimate locksmiths will provide contact information, forms and call in numbers. If you’re researching a locksmith for use in a future emergency you can read reviews and call to be sure they can help you in an emergency. Then put the company information in several locations and you are prepared for the lockout that you hope will never happen.
Ask Questions: When arranging for service, verify that the company takes credit cards, all legitimate businesses accept credit card payments. If you pay using your card, you can always dispute the charge with your card issuer if the tech does not arrive or cannot get you into your vehicle or property. Also, get a receipt even if you pay with a credit card, cash or check. The receipt will have the date, the service tech information and the company information on it.