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How to Get into Your House with a Credit Card when You’re Locked Out. Uh, oh. You’re
at your front door without a key. If you’ve got a credit card, see if you can get it to
open the door before you use it to pay for a locksmith. You will need A standard doorknob
lock Credit card or similar plastic card Patience and steady hands. Only do this on your own
lock -or you could wind up in a lot of trouble. Step 1. Check the lock. A credit card will
only open a spring bolt--the kind of lock that comes with a standard doorknob. It won’t
work on a deadbolt. Step 2. Choose a card. If you have a plastic card that’s less valuable
than a credit card, like a video membership card, try that first. Laminated cards work
best, because they tend to be flexible. Step 3. Wedge the card between the door and the
frame where the doorknob’s latch is located. Many doors have molding that will make this
difficult; if you’re desperate to enter, you can pry it off--but keep in mind this
may cause more damage than the cost of a locksmith. Step 4. Holding the card flush against the
doorframe, begin pushing and wiggling it towards the latch in the door crack. If the sloped
side of the latch isn’t facing you, you will need a tool or long piece of plastic
that you can hook around the other side and pull towards you, making this much more difficult.
Step 5. While pushing the card in, begin bending it away from the doorknob. When you feel it
slide the latch back, the door should open. Step 6. If you got into your home, don’t
be so smug--it means you have a crappy lock. Call a locksmith and get a deadbolt. Did you
know Most home burglaries occur in the middle of the day with the majority of burglars entering
through the front door, which is often unlocked.