One of the conveniences of modern day life is the ability to push a button and have your garage door open smoothly to let your car in. However, while they seem to move effortlessly, they are often made of quite heavy material, meant to keep intruders out. Therefore, you want to take steps to make sure it is operating correctly so your family can get in and out safely. The following guide offers tips for preventing accidents.

Your Garage Safety Checklist

1. Keep Switches & Remotes out of Reach

The garage door is not a plaything, which you should remind your children. That being said, it is best to place all controls in places they can’t access. If you use a remote, add it to your car and house keys, and keep it stored out of sight when you’re home. Also, install wall switches at heights that are not accessible.  

2. Learn How to Use the Emergency Release

In times of power outages or opener failure, you’ll need to know how to open the door manually. This often involves pulling the red release cord attached to the opener to disconnect the door trolley from the automated mechanism. If the door is open or broken, pulling this cord can be dangerous, so you need to read the owner’s manual to be fully aware of what to do and expect for your particular model.

3. Test the Auto Reverse Mechanism

Modern garage doors are designed with sensors that detect when a person, animal, or object is blocking the closing path. If the sensors identify a barrier as the door is closing, it will reverse course. At least once a month, place an object underneath the door. If the door does not reverse within two seconds of making contact, there is an issue with either the opener motor or the infrared sensors. In either case, stop using the opener until the problem is fixed or the part is replaced. 

Inspecting your garage door and its parts at least once a month will also alert you to an issue before it can avalanche into a dangerous situation. When you notice something is off, contact the professionals at Browning Garage Doors. Since 1990, this locally-owned and -operated company has served residents of Carlsbad, NM. Call these insured and licensed experts today at (575) 887-7975 for a free estimate on repairs or installation. Also, stop by their website to learn more about the work they provide.