Garage Door Safety Tips for Homeowners
Garage doors are more than just functional—they enhance a home's appearance, provide security for stored items, and help keep children within a safe play area.
Garage doors are more than just functional—they enhance a home's appearance, provide security for stored items, and help keep children within a safe play area. However, when used improperly, they can also pose serious safety risks.
Simply because a garage door is easy to operate does not mean its hazards should be ignored. Following these safety guidelines can prevent accidents and ensure proper use.
Conduct Regular Inspections
One of the best ways to prevent injuries is to perform monthly inspections. Check the gears, cables, and other components to ensure the door is operating correctly. Open and close it multiple times to identify any issues before they become major safety concerns.
Keep the Remote Out of Children's Reach
Children are naturally drawn to objects with buttons, and a garage door remote is no exception. However, garage doors can cause serious injuries, including permanent disability in some cases. Storing the remote in a safe place and explaining that it is not a toy can help prevent accidental activation.
Open the Garage Door Before Starting a Car
Starting a vehicle in an enclosed garage with the door shut can be extremely dangerous. Car exhaust emits carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled for extended periods. Keeping the garage door open when the engine is running helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Avoid Leaving the Garage Door Opener in the Car
A garage door opener serves as another entry point to a home. Leaving it inside the car, especially in plain sight, increases the risk of break-ins. Keeping it secured in a safe location, rather than in the vehicle, adds an extra layer of protection against potential burglars.
Be Mindful of Fingers
Getting fingers caught between garage door sections can result in severe injuries. Children should be warned to keep their hands away from moving parts. For those with manual garage doors, pressing against the door while it moves can be dangerous. Upgrading to an electric garage door with built-in safety features can help reduce this risk.
Never Walk Under a Moving Garage Door
It may be tempting to rush under a closing garage door to retrieve something left inside, but doing so is extremely dangerous. The force of a closing garage door can cause serious injury. Installing sensors that automatically reverse the door if an object is detected underneath can help prevent accidents.
Hire a Professional for Repairs and Installation
Professionals should handle garage door installation, repairs, and replacements. A small oversight during installation can lead to costly damage or an improperly functioning unit. Hiring a qualified contractor ensures the door operates safely and efficiently.
By following these precautions, garage doors can be used safely while continuing to enhance security and convenience in the home.
Pinnacle Garage Door and Repair provides new garage door installation, custom garage door design, garage door replacement, repairs, openers, track repair, cable repair, spring replacement, and garage door maintenance throughout the Phoenix metro area and Maricopa County. Emergency service is available.
