“I need to get this thing changed to not need a key when exiting”

“Dear PoPville,

I’ve been in DC for about a decade and moved into a studio condo in Adams Morgan 4 years ago. Since then I’ve been living with a fire hazard. An iron gate that covers my sliding glass door with a keyed deadbolt on both sides. I need to get this thing changed to not need a key when exiting but I need something like a tunnel around the lock to prevent someone from simply reaching through the bars and unlocking it.

I’ve seen them many times.. on homes in DC but have found it impossible to find online to buy. After many years I gave in and had a welder with good reviews build one, and the result is very sad to say the least.

Can anyone please help me solve this mystery!?”