Garage Door Safety: Tips for a Smooth and Secure Season

During the holiday season, many of us find our homes bustling with activity. Between hosting family gatherings, managing deliveries, and storing seasonal decorations, your garage is probably experiencing more foot traffic than usual.

It’s essential to remember that your garage door, one of the largest moving parts in your home, can pose risks if not properly used.

Here are a few tips to keep you and your guests safe as well as increase the longevity of your garage door.

Beware Dangling Cords

The little red cord that dangles from your garage opener is the emergency release cord. It’s a great help if the power ever goes out. You can release it and manually lift or shut your door.

However, it can also be a safety hazard. If you have an SUV with a luggage rack, the cord can easily catch on the rack and pull the garage door down onto your car as you back out.

This caution extends to holiday decorations and any other items you store in your garage. Make sure to tie any cords or decorations high enough that they won’t get snagged on moving parts.

Don’t Run under your Garage Door

It might seem like a fun race for kids or a quick shortcut for adults, but running under a closing garage door is dangerous. Garage doors are heavy, and if they come crashing down unexpectedly, it can result in serious injury.

Most garages have safety sensors that prevent a door from closing if something is in its path. However, if the sensors become misaligned or are blocked by debris, the door will come down regardless. Always wait for the door to fully open or close before walking underneath it to avoid any potential accidents.

Maintenance is the Gift that Keeps Giving

One of the best ways to keep your garage door running smoothly and safely is by keeping up with regular maintenance. Lubricate moving parts and inspect the springs, rollers, and tracks for signs of wear.

The older your door gets, the more accident prone it gets. Any garage component that appears damaged or is over 10 years old may need to be replaced. A garage inspection can detect a worn-out part before it becomes a safety hazard.

Don’t let a costly mistake ruin your holidays. By taking a few moments to inspect and care for your garage door, you’re doing more than preventing accidents; you’re investing in the long-term performance of your home.