Your overhead garage door is an essential part of your home, offering convenience and security. However, improper use or lack of care can lead to safety hazards. To protect your family and property, follow these practical safety tips for operating your garage door.
Routine Inspections Are Key
Routine maintenance is the foundation to ensuring safe operation. Inspect the torsion springs, wires, rollers, and tracks for signs of damage. Look out for unusual noises or jerky movements, which could indicate a problem. Addressing these issues early can prevent accidents and expensive fixes.
2. Keeping Remote Controls Secure
Treat your garage door remote control like a house key. Keep it out of reach of children and store it securely when not in use. For added security, consider a modern opener system that requires a digital key or PIN to operate.
Safe Practices for the Household
Ensure everyone in your household understands how to use the garage door safely. Teach children not to treat it as a toy or its mechanisms and explain the risks of tampering with moving parts. Proper training is key to preventing accidents.
Safety Features Matter
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety features like auto-reverse and motion sensors. Test these features on a schedule to ensure they are functioning as intended. 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 springs, wires, or the opener mechanism should always be left to professionals. These components are under high tension and can cause severe harm if mishandled.
