Lockouts on holidays and weekends: how to plan ahead
Christmas Eve at a relative's, a late New Year's night, a quiet Sunday or the drive home from a long weekend: lockouts don't check the calendar.
Why holidays bring more lockouts
- Routines change, so keys get left in unfamiliar places.
- Travel means bags, rental cars and spare keys in the wrong pocket.
- Celebrations run late and attention slips.
- Friends and neighbors who hold your spare may be away too.
What to expect from a holiday call-out
Ask for the full price, including any holiday or after-hours rate, before agreeing. Expect to show ID. Demand is higher on some holidays, so arrival estimates may be longer; a good company will tell you honestly.
Prevention before you travel
- Leave a spare with someone who's staying in town.
- Use a code lockbox rather than hiding a key outside.
- Check that every door and window is locked before you leave.
- If you're installing a smart lock, set it up before the trip, not during it.
- Save a locksmith's number in your phone.
Choosing a locksmith for peace of mind
Pick a local company with a real phone number, clear pricing and good reviews before you need it. Our guide to judging locksmith claims explains what to look for. For holiday lockouts in Boston, call 617-206-2136 to check availability.
