At Rightly Garage Doors, we know your garage door is more than just an entrance—it’s a shield of protection for your home, your family, and your belongings. Yet, this everyday convenience can quickly become a hazard if not maintained and used properly. That’s why we’re here to walk you through essential garage door safety tips that every homeowner should follow.
Test the Auto-Reverse Feature Regularly
Imagine your child’s ball rolling under the garage door as it closes. Will the door stop in time? Modern garage doors come with an auto-reverse feature that prevents accidents by reversing the door if it detects an obstruction. To test this, our friends at Amarr say it is best to place a sturdy object like a wooden block or roll of paper towels in the door’s path. If the door doesn’t reverse upon contact, call Rightly Garage Doors immediately for service.
Keep Hands and Fingers Away from Moving Parts
It may seem like common sense, but fingers getting caught in the garage door’s tracks or hinges is one of the most common injuries. Teach children to never touch the door while it’s in motion, and always use the handles or designated grips when opening or closing it manually.
Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks
Garage doors are heavy-duty machines with numerous moving parts. Over time, springs, cables, and rollers can wear out, leading to malfunction or even sudden failure. A simple, scheduled inspection with Rightly Garage Doors can catch potential problems before they become dangerous or costly repairs.
Check the Balance of Your Garage Door
An unbalanced garage door puts unnecessary strain on the opener and increases the risk of sudden closure. To test balance, disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may be worn out. This is a job for professionals—never attempt to adjust springs yourself, as they are under high tension and can cause serious injury.
Keep the Remote and Keypad Secure
Would you leave your house keys lying around outside? The same logic applies to your garage door remote. Keep it in a safe place, out of reach of children and potential burglars. If your system has a keypad, update the access code regularly and avoid using easily guessed combinations like birthdays or house numbers.
Never Leave the Garage Door Partially Open
Leaving your garage door halfway open is an invitation for trouble. Not only does it pose a security risk, but it can also lead to the door suddenly falling. If the door is left open and then activated again, it may travel downward first before reversing, potentially damaging anything in its path.
Teach Children About Garage Door Safety
Kids are naturally curious, and a moving garage door can be fascinating to them. Set clear rules—no playing near the garage door, no racing under a closing door, and no handling the remote without permission. Reinforce these safety habits early to prevent accidents.
Watch for Wear and Tear on Cables and Springs
The lifting cables and torsion springs bear the weight of your garage door, making them vital to its operation. Frayed cables or rusted springs can snap without warning, causing damage or injury. If you notice any signs of wear, contact Rightly Garage Doors for a professional inspection.
Install Motion-Detecting Lights
A well-lit garage isn’t just convenient; it’s a safety feature. Motion-detecting lights deter intruders and prevent trips and falls, especially at night. If your garage lacks sufficient lighting, consider installing sensor-activated lights for added security and convenience.
Be Aware of Carbon Monoxide Risks
Never leave your car running inside a closed garage. Carbon monoxide (CO) builds up quickly in enclosed spaces and can be deadly. If you frequently start your car inside the garage, install a CO detector to alert you of any dangerous levels of this odorless gas.
Your Safety is Our Priority
At Rightly Garage Doors, we believe that a secure and well-maintained garage door is essential to your family’s safety. By following these simple yet crucial tips, you can prevent accidents, extend the lifespan of your garage door, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is protected. If you ever have concerns about your garage door’s safety or functionality, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team.
Need a garage door inspection? Call Rightly Garage Doors today, and let’s keep your home safe together!
