Garage Door Safety Tips: Preventing Accidents and Break-Ins

Published on: March 20, 2025

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Your garage door is one of the largest moving parts of your home, and if not maintained properly, it can pose safety risks. Additionally, an unsecured garage door can be an easy entry point for burglars. In this guide, we’ll cover essential safety tips to protect your family from accidents and keep intruders out.

Preventing Garage Door Accidents

1. Test the Auto-Reverse Feature Regularly
Modern garage doors come with an auto-reverse feature that stops and reverses the door if an object is detected in its path. To test it:
• Place a solid object (like a block of wood) under the garage door.
• Press the close button—if the door doesn’t reverse, the auto-reverse feature may be faulty and needs repair.

2. Keep the Garage Door Sensors Clean and Aligned
Garage doors use safety sensors near the bottom of the tracks to detect obstacles.
• Ensure they are properly aligned.
• Clean them regularly to remove dust or debris that may block the signal.

3. Educate Children About Garage Door Safety
Kids often see garage doors as fun play areas, which can lead to accidents.
• Never let children play near or under a moving garage door.
• Keep remotes and wall controls out of their reach.

4. Perform Routine Maintenance
A poorly maintained garage door can malfunction, leading to accidents.
• Lubricate moving parts (hinges, springs, and rollers) every few months.
• Check for worn-out cables and loose bolts.
• Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year.

5. Don’t Leave the Garage Door Partially Open
Leaving your garage door slightly open can:
• Allow pests and debris to enter.
• Put extra strain on the garage door opener.
• Create a security risk by making it easier for intruders to gain entry.

Preventing Garage Break-Ins

1. Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door Opener
Smart garage door openers offer remote monitoring and alerts if the door is left open or accessed unexpectedly.

2. Secure Your Garage Door Remote
Never leave your remote in the car, especially if it’s parked outside. Instead:
• Carry it with you or invest in a keychain remote.
• Use a garage door opener app on your smartphone.

3. Reinforce Your Garage Door Locks
For added security, consider:
• Installing a manual garage door lock.
• Adding a deadbolt or slide lock to side doors leading into the garage.

4. Cover Garage Windows
Burglars often peek through garage windows to see if anyone is home or what valuables are inside.
• Use frosted film or blinds to block visibility.

5. Install Motion-Activated Lights & Security Cameras
Bright exterior lighting deters burglars, and security cameras provide an extra layer of protection.

Final Thoughts
A garage door should provide both safety and security. By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of accidents and prevent break-ins. Regular maintenance and smart security upgrades go a long way in keeping your home and family safe.