Garage Door Safety
A garage door is the largest moving object in your home. Whether the door is connected to a garage door opener or used manually, a discussion about garage door safety is important for every family to have. An improperly adjusted garage door or automatic opener can exert deadly force when the door closes, resulting in serious injury. Proper installation, operation, maintenance, and testing are necessary to provide a safe, trouble-free garage.
Safety is Everyone's Business
A few simple precautions can protect your family and friends from potential harm. Please take a few minutes to read the following safety and maintenance tips. Refer to your garage door opener's manual for details specific to the model you own. Then check the operation of your garage door and automatic opener.
Garage Doors Safety Shouldn't Be Taken Lightly
- DO NOT stand or walk under a moving door!
- DO NOT let children or adults play “beat the door.” It is dangerous and can result in serious injury or death. Adults should set a good example. Know how to use the emergency release in case someone is pinned by the door.
- DO NOT let children play with or use the remotes. Always place and store them out of the reach of children.
- The wall control panel should be out of the reach of children (at least 5 feet from the floor) and away from all moving parts. Mount and use the button where you can clearly see the moving garage door.
Teach Your Children About Garage Door and Opener Safety
Garage door openers are not toys. Careless operation and allowing children to play with or use garage door opener controls can lead to tragic results. Discuss garage door safety with your children. Explain the danger of being trapped under the door.
When using the wall control or remote, keep the door in sight until it completely stops moving. Teach children never to play under or near an open garage door.
Teach children to keep their hands and fingers clear of section joints, hinges, tracks, springs, and other door parts. Contact with a moving door or its hardware could cause serious injury. These injuries can also happen with garage doors that don't have automatic openers.
Routine Maintenance Can Prevent Tragedies
Safety is a shared responsibility. Take a few minutes to inspect and test your entire garage door system regularly. Make monthly inspections and tests part of your routine to ensure everything is functioning properly. Garage door and opener safety should always be a priority in your home.