Essential Garage Door Safety Precautions for Every Home
Garage doors are often overlooked when it comes to home safety, yet they are responsible for over 25,000 reported injuries each year, many involving children. With the right precautions and regular maintenance, you can dramatically reduce the risk of accidents in your Fountain Valley home.
1. Supervise Children and Restrict Play Near Garage Doors
Children are especially vulnerable to garage door accidents, with thousands injured annually during playtime. Make the garage a no-play zone and educate your kids about the dangers of running near or under a moving garage door. Always keep remote controls and wall buttons out of reach of young children.
2. Follow Proper Installation and Mounting Guidelines
Ensure that control buttons are mounted at least five feet above the ground to prevent accidental operation by children. Professional installation is highly recommended, as certified technicians follow all safety standards and ensure that all components are correctly set up.
3. Inspect and Maintain Your Garage Door Regularly
Garage doors are heavy, moving systems that require routine inspections. Check the panels, springs, rollers, and cables for wear or damage. Test the auto-reverse function monthly by placing an object in the door’s path—the door should reverse immediately upon contact. If you notice any issues, schedule professional maintenance right away.
4. Test and Maintain Safety Features
Modern garage doors are equipped with safety mechanisms like auto-reverse and photo-eye sensors. Keep these sensors clean and unobstructed, and test their functionality regularly. These features are essential for preventing entrapment and serious injuries.
5. Keep Garage Door in Sight While Operating
Never leave the garage door unattended while it’s moving, and avoid walking or driving under a closing or opening door. Always watch the door until it comes to a complete stop to ensure no one is in harm’s way.
6. Secure Remote Controls and Access
Store remote controls in a secure place, away from children. Consider upgrading to a keypad entry system for added security and convenience, and never share your access code with anyone outside your household.
7. Know the Emergency Release Mechanism
Familiarize yourself with your garage door’s emergency release cord. In the event of a power outage or malfunction, you should be able to manually open or close the door safely. Always consult your manufacturer’s instructions or ask a professional for a demonstration.
8. Upgrade to Modern Safety Standards
If your garage door opener is more than 20 years old, consider upgrading to a model that meets current UL 325 safety standards, which require both auto-reverse and photo-eye sensors. These features have been proven to significantly reduce injuries and fatalities.
9. Watch Your Fingers and Install Pinch-Resistant Panels
Keep hands and fingers away from door sections and moving parts. If you have a manual door, consider installing pinch-resistant panels or upgrading to a safer, modern system.
For more detailed information on garage door safety standards and features, visit the UL Standards & Engagement page on automatic garage door safety.
Take Action Today!
Don’t wait for an accident to happen—implement these garage door safety tips in your Fountain Valley home now. Schedule a professional inspection, educate your family, and upgrade outdated systems to ensure everyone’s safety. For expert garage door maintenance and safety checks, contact our team today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is protected.