Garage door safety should be a regular part of every homeowner’s safety checklist. A GDR Sydney technician knows your garage door is likely the largest moving part of your home, yet many people forget how important it is to keep it safe.
What happens if it suddenly stops working or closes when it shouldn’t? In this article, you’ll find 7 important safety tips that help protect your family and property. Each one is easy to follow and can make a big difference in preventing accidents and avoiding repair costs.
1. Schedule Regular Garage Door Inspections and Maintenance
A good place to start is with simple garage door maintenance. Look closely at the door every month. Check for rusted or worn springs, frayed cables, loose bolts, or grinding noises when the door moves.
Use a silicone based spray to lubricate the hinges, rollers, and garage door tracks. Try lifting the door halfway by hand. If it stays in place, the balance is right. If it drops or rises, it may need adjustment.
These small checks help catch early signs of trouble. It’s also smart to get a full inspection once a year from a professional who can inspect rollers and cables properly.
2. Test and Maintain Built in Safety Features
Every modern garage door includes garage door safety features like an auto reverse system and safety beams. These features are made to protect people, pets, and cars. To check the auto reverse, place a small block of wood under the door and press the close button.
The door should stop and go back up. The safety beams, found near the floor on both sides, should stop the door from closing if something crosses the beam.
Some doors also have motion sensors to stop closing if a person is nearby. These features are required in many areas, including Sydney, especially on smart doors.
3. Secure Garage Door Remotes and Entry Devices
A garage door remote should be treated just like a house key. Never leave it inside your car where it could be stolen. Use a keychain remote or keep it inside the house.
If your door uses keypad access, keep the code private and change it every few months. If you ever lose a remote, disconnect it from your system and reprogram the opener.
This helps avoid unwanted access and keeps your home secure. These are simple steps, but they make a big difference in maintaining a secure entry for your garage.
4. Teach Children and Pets Garage Door Safety
When it comes to garage door child safety, teaching is key. Keep wall mounted openers at least five feet off the ground so children can’t reach them. Explain to kids that the garage door isn’t a toy and they should never run under it or play nearby.
Always supervise young children and pets during door operation. If possible, install pinch resistant panels to help avoid finger injuries. This also adds a level of pet safety, since pets can wander into the path of the door without knowing the risks.
5. Know Your Emergency Procedures
Every garage door has a red emergency release cord that lets you open the door manually if there’s a power outage or the opener fails. Take time to show each family member where it is and how to use it.
Practice opening and closing the door manually. It’s also wise to keep a technician’s contact details nearby, just in case.
This simple step can help avoid panic when the power is out or a part breaks, and knowing how manual garage door operation works could help you avoid injury in an emergency.
6. Upgrade to Modern Garage Door Safety and Security Features
Some older garage doors may not include today’s essential safety tools. Upgrading to a smart garage door opener can give you extra control from your phone and peace of mind.
Many models now include automatic reversal systems, motion detection, battery backup, and security alerts. A new garage door lock system can also help stop unwanted entry.
These features follow Australian Standards and offer better security, especially when you’re away from home. With modern features, your door becomes easier to manage and safer for the whole family.
7. Keep the Area Around the Door Clear
Always keep the garage door path clear of bikes, tools, bins, or anything else that might block the door or sensors. Check the area around the photo eye sensors and remove anything that might interfere.
It’s also a good idea to set up motion activated lights around the garage to help stop break ins and improve night visibility. When the space is clean and well lit, safety sensors can do their job and you’re less likely to deal with crushed items or door malfunctions.
Key Benefits of Upgrading to Modern Safety Features
Newer garage door systems offer more than just safety; they bring convenience. From remote control access and smart alerts to auto locking features, they help protect your home while keeping things easy to manage.
These upgrades also mean fewer maintenance issues. With sensors, alerts, and phone apps, you’ll know when something’s not right. Many systems now include battery backups, so the door works even when the power is out.
Upgrading is a smart step for any homeowner wanting better security, quicker response, and fewer worries.
Why Garage Door Safety Matters for Every Home
Garage doors may look simple, but they can cause real harm if something goes wrong. From crushing accidents to doors that fail to close properly, the risks are real. Families with children or pets should be especially careful.
Good safety habits help prevent accidents and give you peace of mind. A door that’s looked after is safer, lasts longer, and protects everything inside. That’s why garage door safety should be part of every household’s basic safety plan.
Call a Professional for Garage Door Safety
Even with regular checks, some problems need expert attention. If you notice strange noises, uneven movement, or anything unusual, call a technician. Simple habits like checking cables or testing sensors are helpful, but professionals can catch issues you might miss.
If you’re not sure about your setup or need a check up, GDR Sydney is here to help. Since 2017, we’ve been helping locals protect your family and property with safe, working garage doors. Talk to our team today if you’re unsure about garage door repairs in Sydney.
