If you ever get into trouble with locks and keys, here’s what you can do

We don’t normally think much about our locks and keys. . .until something goes wrong. The truth is, whether residential, automotive, or commercial, they play a major role in our personal and business lives. If an emergency arises, it’s unnerving, but you don’t have to let it get to you. There are a good number of steps you can take to make yourself more secure. You can prevent most typical lock and key problems.

Prolong the life of your locks. Here’s what to do to prolong the life of your locks:

• If a key doesn’t turn, don’t worry. Sometimes the pins will become jammed. Spray the lock mechanism with silicone spray or WD-40, which will usually solve the problem so you won’t need to call a locksmith.
• Lubrication. If you ever see any excess friction or grinding in the lock mechanism ~ or, at least twice a year ~ apply a silicone-based lubricant to the keyhole.
• Replace your keys periodically. Our keys take a lot of abuse, because we use them many times a day, store them who knows where, and throw them all over. If you notice that your keys are beginning to wear down, or if they’re damaged somehow, then you ought to make a new key. Don’t neglect to responsibly discard your old keys; a recycling facility is best.

Do you have a broken or stuck key? Haste makes waste, so don’t rush with your keys. You could find yourself in a tough situation, because your key might break off in the lock mechanism! Take a few extra seconds to be patient with your key, and save yourself some grief.

If you’re unfortunate enough to watch your key break off inside a lock mechanism, if this occurs before you close the door, then you won’t be able to lock it, which obviously will leave you susceptible to theft. If your key breaks off after you’ve closed the door, you likely will not be able to open the door again later. A broken key can also damage the lock itself. Here’s what to do:

• If you don’t see any part of your key coming out of the lock, it will be risky to attempt to pull it out, because you could easily damage it, but it’s still worth a try: Use a flathead screwdriver ~ one small enough to fit in the keyhole. Pry the key, just a bit, to the point where it comes out slightly. If you do it just right, you should be able to extract it with needle-nose pliers or your fingers. If there’s any damage, it’s time hire a locksmith.
• If any part of your key is stuck inside the lock, and there is any part of it visible, you might be able to get it out more easily. If there’s enough of the key showing, now you’ll probably be able to pull it out with your fingers or needle-nose pliers. If you observe any damage, you’ll have to call a locksmith.

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