Your garage door is one of your home’s largest and heaviest moving parts, so you must be careful when using it. Per the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 15,000 people are injured yearly by garage door accidents. Some of these injuries are minor, but some can be serious or even fatal.
To prevent such accidents and injuries, you must follow some simple garage door safety tips, such as regularly inspecting your garage door, testing its safety features, and keeping children away. You can also consult companies specializing in garage door installation, repair, and maintenance, such as Garage Gecko.
1. Choosing a Safe Garage Door Opener with Key Features
When selecting a garage door opener, prioritize safety features to minimize the risk of accidents. Look for the following key factors:
Automatic Reverse Mechanism
Opt for a garage door opener that includes an automatic reverse feature. This safety feature uses sensors to detect any obstruction in the door’s path. The door will automatically reverse if an object or person is detected, preventing potential accidents.
Rolling Code Technology
Consider a garage door opener with rolling code technology. This advanced security feature changes the access code each time the door is operated, minimizing the possibility of unauthorized entry.
Manual Release Handle
Ensure the garage door opener has a manual release handle for emergencies. This allows you to disengage the opener and operate the door manually if there’s a power outage or malfunction.
2. Avoiding Injuries from Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are under high tension and can cause severe injuries if mishandled. Follow these precautions to avoid spring-related accidents:
Leave Spring Repairs to Professionals
Garage door spring repairs are complicated and dangerous tasks. Hiring a trained professional to handle any spring-related issues, such as repair or replacement, is important. Attempting to fix or adjust springs yourself can lead to serious injuries.
Regular Maintenance
Schedule regular maintenance checks with a qualified technician to ensure garage door springs are in good condition. They will promptly inspect for signs of wear, rust, or damage and address any potential issues.
Be Cautious with DIY Projects
If you enjoy DIY projects, it’s essential to exercise caution when working around the garage door springs. Follow safety guidelines, wear protective gear, and avoid any actions that might put you at risk.
3. Keeping Children Safe around Garage Doors
Children are naturally curious, making it crucial to take additional precautions to keep them safe around garage doors. Here’s how:
- Teach them not to play with or near garage doors, especially when opening or closing.
- Keep the remote control and the wall switch out of their reach, and do not let them use them without supervision.
- Install a keypad outside your garage door and set a code that only you and other adults know.
- Check for gaps or openings in your garage door that could trap their fingers or limbs.
- Install pinch-resistant panels on your garage door that prevent their fingers from getting caught between the sections.
Conclusion
Maintaining garage door safety is important to prevent accidents and injuries. By choosing a garage door opener with safety features, avoiding mishandling of springs, and implementing child safety measures, you can create a secure environment for your family.
Regular maintenance and professional assistance are also necessary to ensure your garage door operates smoothly and reliably.