How to Open a Chain Lock From the Outside? 3 Effective Ways

Chain locks, often seen as a staple in many hotels, offer a layer of security to doors, providing hotel guests with peace of mind. Their design is such that they can be easily engaged from the inside, ensuring that residents can quickly secure their premises.

However, there are instances where one might find themselves on the opposite side of a chain lock. In such situations, the ability to open a chain lock from the outside becomes not just a skill but a necessity. This article delves into the various methods to achieve this, ensuring that you’re never left standing outside your door.

Use The Rubber Band

The rubber band technique is a popular and surprisingly effective method for bypassing chain locks, especially in hotels. While it might sound too simple to be true, the elasticity and strength of rubber bands can be harnessed to manipulate the chain out of its slot, granting access to the room or residence.

Open a Chain Lock From the Outside with the Rubber Band

Introduction to the Rubber Band Method:

The rubber band method capitalizes on the principle of elasticity. Using the tension created by a stretched rubber band, one can exert a pulling force on the chain lock, guiding it out of its bracket and unlocking the door. This method is favored due to its simplicity, requiring minimal tools and expertise.

Detailed Steps on Using the Rubber Band:

1. Choose the Right Rubber Band: Select a rubber band that’s thick and sturdy. It should be elastic enough to stretch but strong enough not to snap under tension.
2. Fold the door Slightly: Open the door as much as the chain lock allows, creating a small gap.
3. Prepare the Rubber Band: Loop the rubber band, creating a figure-eight shape. One loop should be larger than the other.
4. Insert the Larger Loop: Slide the larger loop of the rubber band through the gap at the top of the door, ensuring it goes over the chain and comes out beneath it on the inside.
5. Hook the Chain: Using the smaller loop on the outside, hook it onto the door handle or knob to keep the rubber band in place. The larger loop on the inside should now be positioned behind the chain.
6. Apply Tension: Pull the rubber band from the outside, creating tension. This will cause the inner loop to pull the chain towards the wider slot of the lock.
7. Open the Door: As the chain is guided out of its bracket by the rubber band’s tension, you should be able to open the door fully.

Importance of Choosing a Sturdy Rubber Band:

The success of this method heavily relies on the rubber band’s quality. A flimsy or old rubber band might snap under tension, rendering the technique ineffective. Moreover, a snapped rubber band could harm the user or the door. Therefore, always opt for a thick, high-quality rubber band that can withstand the required tension without breaking.

In conclusion, the rubber band technique is a testament to the idea that, sometimes, simple solutions can solve seemingly complex problems. With some practice and the right rubber band, bypassing a chain lock becomes straightforward.

The String Method

Using a string is one of the most ingenious yet simple methods to bypass a chain lock from the outside. This method capitalizes on the design of the chain lock, specifically the wider slot that allows the chain to move freely when the door is closed. Here’s how you can employ the string method:

Materials Needed:

A piece of string. This can be dental floss, yarn, ribbon, or similar material. The string should be sturdy enough to withstand tension but thin enough to slide between the door and frame.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the String: Cut a string length approximately 2 to 3 feet long. This ensures you have enough length to work with.
2. Fold the door Slightly: Open the door as much as the chain lock allows. This will create a small gap between the door and its frame.
3. Insert the String: Slide one end of the string through the gap at the top of the door, ensuring it goes over the chain and comes out beneath it on the inside.
4. Position the String: Gently pull both ends of the string to position itself behind the chain, close to where the chain enters the wider slot of the lock.
5. Apply Tension and Pull: Hold both string ends outside the door. Apply a steady and firm pull on both ends simultaneously, aiming to drag the chain towards the wider slot. Using the string as a makeshift pulley to guide the chain out of its bracket is the idea.
6. Open the Door: As the chain is pulled out of its bracket by the string, you should be able to open the door fully. Once done, ensure to disengage the chain lock properly to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Note: While the string method is effective, it requires a bit of finesse and patience. It’s essential to ensure the string is positioned correctly behind the chain for this method to work. If unsuccessful on the first try, reposition the string and attempt again.

Push Technique for Door Chain Locks

The push technique is one of the simplest methods to bypass a chain lock. It capitalizes on the design of the chain lock and the slight flexibility that the chain provides. While it might not work for all chain locks, especially those that are tightly fitted, it’s worth a try, given its simplicity.

Open a Hotel Chain Lock From the Outside

Opening the Door as Wide as Possible:

1. Approach the Door: Stand facing the door and ensure you grip the door handle or knob firmly.
2. Push Gently: Push the door as much as the chain lock allows. This will create a small gap between the door and frame, which is essential for the push technique.

Using a Simple Push Against the Joining Ends to Unlock:

1. Identify the Joining Ends: Look where the chain enters the lock slot. These are the joining ends that you’ll be targeting.
2. Use Your Fingers: Place your fingers against the joining ends of the chain lock. Ensure you have a firm but gentle grip.
3. Apply a Quick Push: With a swift and firm motion, push against the joining ends of the chain lock. The idea is to use the momentum and force of your push to slide the chain out of its slot.
4. Open the Door: If successful, the chain should disengage from its slot, allowing you to open the door fully.

Note: The push technique relies on the slight give that the chain provides and the momentum of your push. It might require a few attempts to get it right. Also, this method is more likely to work on chain locks with a bit of slack or are not tightly fitted.

In conclusion, the push technique for door chain locks is a testament to the idea that sometimes the simplest methods can be the most effective. It’s a quick and easy way to bypass a chain lock without any tools or special skills. However, as with all bypass techniques, it’s crucial to use it responsibly and ensure you have the right to access the locked space.

How to Avoid Opening a Chain Lock from the Outside?

Ensuring the security of chain locks, especially in hotels and travel accommodations, is crucial for travelers and hotel owners. While knowing how chain locks can be bypassed for emergencies is beneficial, it’s equally important to understand how to prevent unauthorized access. Here are some tips for both travelers and hotel owners to enhance the security of chain locks:

Avoid Opening a Chain Lock from the Outside

For Travelers:

1. Double-check the Lock: Always ensure the chain lock is properly engaged. A partially engaged lock can be easier to bypass.
2. Use Additional Security Measures: Consider using portable door alarms or door stoppers that prevent the door from being opened from the outside. Some travelers carry a door wedge or door jammer to add an extra layer of security.
3. Be Aware of Surroundings: Inform hotel security or management immediately if you notice suspicious activity or individuals lurking around.
4. Privacy First: Use the “Do Not Disturb” sign inside the room to deter potential intruders. Avoid discussing your room number or security measures in public areas.

For Hotel Owners:

1. Regular Maintenance: Ensure that chain locks are regularly checked and maintained. A worn-out or loose chain lock can be easier to bypass. Consider replacing older locks with newer, more secure models.
2. Educate Staff: Train hotel staff to be vigilant and report suspicious activities. They should also be trained to assist guests with security concerns.
3. Install Security Cameras: Place security cameras in hallways and entrances. This not only deters potential intruders but also provides evidence in case of any security breaches.
4. Upgrade Security: Consider installing electronic door locks with key card access, which can offer an added layer of security. Look into integrating door sensors that alert security or the front desk if a door is left ajar for an extended period.
5. Guest Education: Provide guests with information about the security features of their rooms and encourage them to use all available locks and safety devices. Consider holding regular security awareness sessions or providing literature on the topic.
6. Enhance Overall Hotel Security: Employ security personnel, especially during the night, to patrol the hotel premises. Ensure all access points, like side entrances or back doors, are secured and monitored.

In conclusion, while chain locks provide an added layer of security, they are just one component of a comprehensive security strategy. Both travelers and hotel owners should be proactive in ensuring safety, combining multiple security measures to create a safe and secure environment.