Police Offer Auto Lockout Tips

If a motorist locks himself out of his motor vehicle, there are certain steps he could take to regain entry, according to the police department’s crime prevention unit.

The motorist could contact police about the problem, as police carry specialized tools to gain entry into vehicles whose owners have locked themselves out.

But in order for police to use those tools, the vehicle must not be equipped with electronic locks, must not have electronic windows, and must not have side-impact airbags. Those restrictions are in effect to avoid injuring the police officer and to avoid damaging the vehicle.

Police will respond when called to the scene of serious lockout cases, such as a child being locked inside an auto, or a locked vehicle that is located in an unsafe place.

If a motorist locks himself out of a vehicle which has electronic locks, electronic windows, or side-impact airbags, the motorist should contact a locksmith for help, according to police.

If the auto does not have such equipment, the motorist could contact police. If the driver signs a damage waiver, a police officer would then attempt to open the vehicle. If the officer is not able to open the auto after a reasonable amount of effort, the police officer would then help the motorist find a locksmith.

People with questions about auto lockouts may contact police at 426-5841. The crime prevention unit is comprised of officers Andrew Stinson, David Kullgren, Maryhelen McCarthy, and Amity Robinson.