A bedroom or toilet door that's locked from the inside is one of the most common calls we get, and one of the most stressful when a child is on the other side. Here's what to do, in order.
1. Is someone inside, and are they safe?
If a person inside is hurt, unresponsive, having a medical emergency, or there's smoke or fire, call 995 immediately. SCDF can force the door. Don't wait for a locksmith. Read when to call the police or SCDF to open a door.
If a child is inside and safe, stay by the door and keep talking calmly. Children often lock a door by pressing the button or turning the knob, and can sometimes unlock it again if you guide them: "turn the little knob" or "press the button again".
2. Look for the emergency release on the outside
Most bedroom and toilet locks are privacy locks, designed so they can be opened from outside in an emergency, without a key. Look at the outside knob or handle for:
- A small round hole in the centre of the knob or the round plate behind it. Push a straight, thin tool (such as an unbent paper clip or the emergency tool that came with the lock) straight in, and turn the knob at the same time.
- A slot, often on lever handles with a thumbturn inside. Turn it with a coin or a small flat screwdriver.
Many toilet locks also have an "occupied" indicator next to the slot. If you see a keyhole instead of a hole or slot, it's a keyed lock: you'll need its key.
3. What not to do
- Don't kick or shoulder the door. Internal doors split easily, and you can hurt yourself or someone standing behind it.
- Don't force the lock with a knife. You'll damage the lock and the door frame.
4. Call a locksmith
If there's no emergency release, it doesn't work, or the lock has broken inside, call or WhatsApp 9224 9224, 24/7. Uncle Thomas opens room and toilet doors without damage wherever possible, anywhere in Singapore. Afterwards, we can fit a new privacy lock with a working emergency release, so it doesn't happen again: see lock replacement.
How to stop it happening again
- Check every bedroom and toilet lock has an outside emergency release, and that it still works.
- Keep the release tool (if your lock came with one) on top of the door frame or in a known drawer.
- With young children, consider locks that can't be locked from inside, or remove the lock on rooms they use.
- Replace a lock that sticks before it jams shut.
Room or toilet door locked? If anyone is in danger, call 995. Otherwise, call or WhatsApp 9224 9224, 24/7.