The garage door is often one of the most used devices in a home. It becomes so commonplace to open and close it that homeowners often forget just how dangerous the mechanism can be if used improperly. As a friendly reminder, June has been made Garage Door Safety Month by the International Door Association and Access Systems Manufacturers Association. To ensure everyone in your home, especially the kids, is using the garage door and opener safely, go over these tips.

How to Keep Kids Safe Around the Garage Door

1. Teach Them Not to Play With It

Kids can find a way to turn most objects into a toy, so a garage door that can be maneuvered up and down is sure to spark their curiosity. Prevent this and any future accidents by making it clear the door and opener are not toys. Point out the dangerous areas, like the springs and lift cables, and explain how hurt they could get if they try to climb on these parts. Also, try to demonstrate how heavy the door is, so they know not to make any games that involve using it.

2. Regularly Inspect the Sensors

Since the 1990s, all garage door openers were required to be made with safety sensors. The "photo eye” sensors located on either side of the door use infra-red signals to detect if any objects are blocking the path as the door begins to close. If the signal is broken, the door will automatically reverse. Unfortunately, layers of dust and cobwebs, lens misalignment, and low-voltage problems can all cause the sensors to stop working. Test and clean this feature at least twice a year to avoid preventable accidents.

3. Keep the Opener Out of Reach

 It's normal for kids to want to play with remote controls, especially those that can visibly make an object open and close. To avoid any mishaps, install the control panel in a spot that is out of reach of younger hands, and keep the remote in a safe location. If you have older children, ask them to keep an eye on their younger siblings when around the garage to prevent them from somehow gaining access to these controls. 

Having regular maintenance performed is another way to keep your garage door safe. Since 1955, Homenik Door Co., located in North Ridgeville, OH, has provided high-quality commercial and residential garage door installations and services. They carry a large inventory with products from leading manufacturers like Haas Door®, Wayne-Dalton®, and Chamberlain Manufacturing Co®. For same-day repair service, call (440) 327-7270 to speak with one of their experienced crew members. You can also visit their website to view examples of current door models and styles.