Your overhead garage door is an essential part of your home, offering convenience and peace of mind. However, improper use or lack of maintenance can lead to dangerous situations. To protect your family and property, follow these practical 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 tracks for wear and tear. Look out for strange sounds or jerky movements, which could indicate a problem. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent accidents and costly repairs.
Safe Storage for Remotes
Treat your garage door remote control like a security tool. Keep it out of reach of little ones and store it in a safe place when not in use. For added security, consider a smart garage door opener that requires a digital key or PIN to operate.
Knowledge Is Power
Ensure everyone in your household knows how to use the garage door safely. Teach young ones not to play near the door or its mechanisms and explain the risks of tampering with moving parts. Clear communication is key to ensuring safety.
Safety Features Matter
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety features like auto-reverse and obstacle detection. 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.
DIY? Not for Garage Doors
While some maintenance tasks can be handled on your own, repairs involving torsion mechanisms, wires, or the opener mechanism should always be left to professionals. These components are under high tension and can cause severe harm if mishandled.
