Keys Locked in the Car: Police or Locksmith?
Short answer: call a locksmith — the police won't come out for a simple lockout. The exception: if a child or pet is locked inside, call 999 immediately. For everything else, call 07425 435697 — open 24/7.
When to call 999
A child or pet locked in the car — call 999 first, immediately. Cars heat up (and cool down) dangerously fast, and this is exactly what emergency services are for. Call us after — we'll get there as fast as we can, but the police and fire service can be faster and they carry the right authority for it.
This is the one situation where you don't wait, don't shop around, and don't worry about cost. Call 999.
When NOT to call the police
For a straightforward lockout — your keys are inside, everyone's safe — the police won't attend. It's not an emergency service matter, and calling 999 for it ties up a line someone else needs. The right call is a locksmith (or your breakdown cover, if it includes lockouts and you don't mind the wait).
Locksmith vs. breakdown cover
- Locksmith (us): direct call, honest price on the phone, realistic arrival time, non-destructive entry. Usually the fastest option.
- Breakdown cover: worth a try if your policy includes lockout help — but check, because many don't, and waits can be long, especially at night.
If you're somewhere you don't feel safe, don't wait on hold with anyone — call the locksmith directly.
What we'll ask when you call
- Where you are (exactly — street, car park, landmark)
- The car's make and model
- Photo ID ready for when we arrive — we check before opening any car