2024-12-28 Sarah Williams
<p>Garage doors are marvels of engineering, but they're also one of the heaviest moving objects in your home. A typical residential garage door weighs between 150 and 250 pounds.more than enough to cause serious injury. Here's how to keep your family safe around your garage door.</p>
<h2>Educate Your Children</h2> <p>Children should never play with garage door remotes or wall buttons. Make sure they understand that the garage door is not a toy. Teach them to stay clear of the door while it's moving and never to try to race under a closing door. Keep remotes out of reach of young children.</p>
<h2>Test Safety Features Monthly</h2> <p>Federal law requires all garage door openers manufactured after 1993 to have auto-reverse mechanisms. Test yours monthly by placing a 2x4 flat on the ground in the door's path. If the door doesn't reverse upon contact, call a technician immediately. Also test the photo-eye sensors by waving an object in front of them while the door is closing.</p>
<h2>Never Leave a Closing Door Unattended</h2> <p>Always watch your garage door until it's completely closed. Even with safety features, it's possible for pets, children, or objects to move into the door's path after you've turned away. Make it a habit to wait and watch.</p>
<h2>Keep Fingers Away from Door Sections</h2> <p>The sections of a garage door can pinch fingers severely as the door opens or closes. This is especially dangerous for children. Modern doors often have pinch-resistant designs, but older doors may not. Teach everyone in your household to keep hands away from the door sections.</p>
<h2>Don't Try DIY Spring Repairs</h2> <p>Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if they break or are released improperly. Never attempt to adjust, repair, or replace springs yourself. This is always a job for trained professionals with the proper tools.</p>
<h2>Keep the Emergency Release Out of Reach</h2> <p>Most garage doors have a manual release (usually a red cord) that disconnects the door from the opener. While this is essential for emergencies, a burglar could use a coat hanger through the top of the door to trigger it. Consider installing a zip tie or shield to prevent unauthorized access.</p>
<h2>Regular Maintenance Equals Safe Operation</h2> <p>A well-maintained garage door is a safe garage door. Regular lubrication, tightening loose hardware, and replacing worn parts helps ensure safe, reliable operation. Schedule a professional inspection annually to catch potential problems before they become dangerous.</p>
<p>Safety should always be the top priority when it comes to your garage door. If you have any concerns about your door's safety or operation, contact Garage Door Antioch for a thorough inspection.</p>