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 dangerous situations. To ensure safe use, follow these practical safety tips for operating your garage door.
1. Regular Maintenance Checks
Routine maintenance is the foundation to ensuring safe operation. Inspect the torsion springs, wires, wheels, and rails for wear and tear. Look out for unusual noises or jerky movements, which could indicate a problem. Addressing these issues promptly can stop hazards and expensive fixes.
Securing Your Garage Door Remote
Treat your garage door remote control like a house key. Keep it out of reach of children 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.
Safe Practices for the Household
Ensure everyone in your household knows how to use the garage door safely. Teach children not to play near the door or its mechanisms and explain the dangers of tampering with the system. Clear communication is key to preventing accidents.
Keep Features in Check
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety features like automatic reversal systems and obstacle detection. Test these features regularly 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 torsion mechanisms, wires, or the opener mechanism should always be left to trained technicians. These components are under extreme stress and can cause severe harm if mishandled.
