How to Perform Garage Door Safety Checks
Ensuring that the entryway works appropriately goes a long way in keeping family members safe.
Although garage doors aren't often deemed safety hazards around the house, they can still pose a severe threat if not handled properly. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 30,000 injuries in the U.S. are caused by garage doors yearly. Ensuring that the entryway works appropriately goes a long way in keeping family members safe. Here are some helpful tips about garage door checks.
Keep the garage door opener away from the kids
An important safety tip is keeping the garage door opener out of children's hands. Kids are naturally curious, and the garage door opener can become a fascinating toy for them. The best way to keep them from temptation is to have the remote out of sight and out of reach.
Locate the emergency release feature
It's essential to know the location of the emergency release feature. This feature allows family members to leave the house quickly and safely when necessary. Furthermore, having an emergency plan will help facilitate quick response in urgent situations. Consult a garage door expert on how the emergency release feature works.
Be careful around garage doors
Avoid darting under the garage door during opening and closing. If there's a problem with the door, it can malfunction during this process, causing injury to anyone underneath. Teach the kids to avoid the door when it's in use and let them understand it isn't a toy. Maintaining the door is vital to keep it from breaking down and harming family members.
Examine the garage door regularly
Take the time to check the components of the garage door monthly. These include the springs, cables, and other heavy electrical parts. Many of these might require an expert's eye to detect a potential problem or if something is wrong. Set up a maintenance schedule with a trained technician to ensure everything is in good working condition.
Check the auto-reverse
If the garage door has an automatic-reverse feature, ensure it's working correctly. Check it regularly by placing a roll of toilet paper in the garage door path to see if it will be detected. This little exercise can help prevent accidents. If the door doesn't have an auto-reverse feature, consider replacing the door with a new one, especially if there are kids and pets in the home.
Maintenance is key
Contact a professional if the garage door needs repairs or maintenance. Ensuring the garage door is properly functioning is key to keeping the family safe. An expert can provide high-quality, functional garage doors with the necessary safety features. With a new garage door, homeowners can protect their homes from intruders and their families from possible injuries.
Phoenician Garage Door & Repair offers full-service garage installation, repair and maintenance in Maricopa County. Emergency service available. We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Call (602) 610-0112
