Your overhead garage door is an essential part of your home, offering ease of access and peace of mind. However, improper use or lack of maintenance can lead to dangerous situations. To protect your family and property, follow these essential safety tips for operating your garage door.
Keep Your Door in Check
Routine maintenance is the foundation to ensuring safe operation. Inspect the springs, wires, wheels, and rails for wear and tear. Look out for strange sounds or uneven motion, which could indicate a problem. Addressing these issues early can prevent accidents and costly repairs.
Securing Your Garage Door Remote
Treat your garage door remote control like a house key. Keep it out of reach of children and store it in a safe place when not in use. For added security, consider a smart garage door opener that requires a smartphone app or PIN to operate.
Teach Your Family About Garage Door Safety
Ensure everyone in your household understands how to use the garage door safely. Teach young ones not to play near the door or its mechanisms and explain the dangers of tampering with the system. Proper training is key to preventing accidents.
Keep Features in Check
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety features like automatic reversal systems and motion sensors. Test these features on a schedule to ensure they are functioning properly. Place an object like a block of wood under the door while it’s closing—if it doesn’t reverse upon contact, it’s time for a professional inspection.
Professional Repairs Are Safer
While some maintenance tasks can be DIY-friendly, repairs involving torsion mechanisms, wires, or the opener mechanism should always be left to trained technicians. These components are under extreme stress and can cause severe harm if mishandled.