Your garage door is one of the largest moving parts in your home, and while it provides convenience and security, it can also pose risks—especially for children and pets. Accidents involving garage doors happen more often than many homeowners realize, but the good news is that with proper precautions, you can create a safer environment for your loved ones.
At State Line Garage Doors, we believe that safety should always come first. Here are some essential tips to help protect your children and pets from garage door-related accidents.
1. Educate Kids About Garage Door Safety
Children are naturally curious, and they may not realize the dangers a moving garage door presents. Teaching them the following safety rules can help prevent accidents:
✔ Never play near the garage door – Kids should avoid running or playing around a moving garage door.
✔ Hands off the door and tracks – Teach children not to touch or hang from the garage door or its tracks.
✔ Keep remotes out of reach – Store garage door remotes in a safe place where young children can’t access them.
✔ Explain the dangers of trying to “race” under a closing door – Many accidents happen when kids try to slip under a garage door before it fully closes.
2. Test Your Garage Door’s Safety Features
Modern garage doors come equipped with safety sensors and auto-reverse mechanisms that help prevent injuries. Here’s how to make sure yours are working properly:
✔ Check the Auto-Reverse Feature
- Open the garage door and place a solid object (like a roll of paper towels) underneath.
- Close the door using the remote.
- If the door doesn’t stop and reverse when it touches the object, your system needs professional servicing.
✔ Test the Photoelectric Safety Sensors
- Locate the sensors near the base of the garage door tracks.
- Wave an object (like a broomstick) in front of them as the door is closing.
- If the door doesn’t stop and reverse immediately, the sensors may need cleaning or adjustment.
3. Keep Pets Safe from Garage Door Hazards
Pets love to explore, but a garage can be a dangerous place for them. Here’s how to keep your furry friends safe:
✔ Never let pets roam under a moving garage door – If they dart under at the wrong time, they could get injured.
✔ Secure loose wires and cords – Pets may chew on electrical wiring, which can be hazardous.
✔ Keep toxic substances out of reach – Garages often contain antifreeze, motor oil, and other chemicals that are harmful to animals.
✔ Make sure your pet isn’t hiding under the door before closing it – Small animals often seek shelter in tight spaces, so always do a quick check before shutting the garage door.
4. Regular Garage Door Maintenance Helps Prevent Accidents
Just like any other mechanical system, your garage door needs regular maintenance to ensure it functions safely. Scheduling a professional garage door inspection can help identify potential issues before they become dangerous.
At State Line Garage Doors, we recommend:
✔ Annual safety inspections to check springs, cables, and sensors.
✔ Lubricating moving parts to keep the door operating smoothly.
✔ Tightening loose bolts and checking for wear to prevent unexpected failures.
If your garage door is making unusual noises, moving unevenly, or failing safety tests, contact us for a professional inspection before a small issue turns into a major safety hazard.
5. Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door Opener for Added Safety
One of the best ways to improve garage door safety is by upgrading to a smart garage door opener. These openers allow you to:
✔ Monitor and control your garage door remotely using a smartphone app.
✔ Set alerts if the garage door is left open to prevent accidental entry.
✔ Use voice commands with Alexa or Google Home for added convenience.
With a smart opener, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your kids and pets won’t accidentally get locked inside or left vulnerable if the door is unintentionally left open.
Final Thoughts: Safety Starts with Awareness
Your garage door is a major part of your home’s functionality, but it can also be a source of danger if proper precautions aren’t taken. By educating your family, testing safety features, keeping pets secure, and maintaining your garage door regularly, you can create a much safer environment.
At State Line Garage Doors, we’re committed to keeping your home and loved ones safe. If you need a safety inspection, repairs, or an upgrade, contact us today for expert service you can trust.
📞 Call us now to schedule your garage door safety check!