Locked Out at Night in the Inner West: A Calm Checklist

First, check every door and window you can safely reach. A back door left on the latch or a window that was never locked solves more lockouts than any tool. Do not climb onto roofs or balconies to get in.

Next, think about who has a spare. A housemate, a neighbour, a family member nearby. If nobody does, that is the time to call a locksmith.

When you call, tell us your address, the type of door and lock if you know it, and whether anyone or anything is stuck inside. If a child or vulnerable person is inside and at risk, call 000 first.

While you wait, stay somewhere well lit. Keep your phone charged if you can. Have some ID handy, because a good locksmith will ask for it before or after opening your door.

Once you are back inside, consider why it happened. A self-locking latch is the usual culprit. Swapping it for a lock that does not lock behind you, or adding a digital lock with a code, can stop it happening again.