Car Lockout in Reno, NV

Parking in Reno shapes a lockout

Reno plows Priority 1 and 2 streets first: major and collector streets, plus the areas around schools and emergency service sites. Portions of Virginia Street, Longley Lane and Stead Boulevard are among the Priority 1 examples. The city also asks residents to park off the street before forecast storms, and it does not remove plow berms from driveways. In winter, a locked car may be at a curb on a plowed route or in a driveway behind a berm, and that difference matters to whoever comes to the car. Say which it is, and whether snow or ice covers the doors.

When a lockout is an emergency

If a child or a pet is inside the car, call 911 first and do not wait for a locksmith. A parked car heats up in direct sun and holds cold overnight, so the danger is not limited to winter. Adults are at risk too. If you or a passenger are unwell or underdressed for the weather, get somewhere warm, such as a nearby business, and send your location from there.

What location details to send

• The cross streets and the side of the street, or the business name, level and nearest entrance if it is a lot or garage
• Whether the car is at a curb on a snow route, in a driveway or behind a berm
• Make, model, year and color
• Where the key is: inside the car, lost, or in a place you can reach
• Whether anyone or anything is inside
• A number you will answer

If the key is gone for good, car key replacement is the next step. The car lockout page describes the service, emergency locksmith covers urgent situations, and the Reno page has the city's plowing notes.