There is an up side and a down side to hiding a spare key outside. It can come in handy if you are locked out; however, you also run the risk of an intruder finding it and gaining access. The key to enjoying the benefit of a spare key while reducing the risk involves hiding it in the right location. Here are some ideas on hiding a spare key outside your home that will reduce the odds of someone else finding it.
Avoid the Front Door Area
Burglars are aware that many people hide keys near their front door, so this is likely to be the first place they look. Avoid putting a spare key anywhere near your front door. Your garage, storage shed or patio is a much better location for it. You could even tuck it underneath a piece of siding on the side or back of your home.
Inconspicuous Location
The location where you hide your key should also be inconspicuous. Choose a spot where others are unlikely to see you retrieving your key. Somewhere in your back yard would be best. Another idea is to hide your key inside a dog house, as most criminals are unlikely to check there.
Frustrate the Criminal
Criminals who become frustrated are more likely to leave, since their goal is to get in and out of your home quickly. One way to frustrate would-be intruders is to hide several keys around your property, but make sure that only one of them actually opens your door. You could start by putting fake keys in obvious locations such as underneath the door mat or inside a flowerpot. Another idea is to make wind chimes from old keys that are painted different color and include only one that opens the door. You’ll know which one works, but a burglar won’t, and is unlikely to try all of them to find the right one.
When hiding a key outside, the key is to think outside the box and choose a spot where criminals are unlikely to look.
