Garage doors are an essential part of our homes. They provide us with a safe and secure way to park our vehicles and store our belongings. However, garage doors can pose a significant danger to children, especially when proper safety measures are not followed. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 30,000 garage door-related injuries occur each year, with children being the most susceptible. In this article, we will explore some necessary garage door safety measures that every parent should adhere to keep children safe around garage doors.
Selecting the Right Garage Door Opener
When selecting a garage door opener, you must choose one that has a modern safety feature. Since 1993, all garage doors openers have been required to have a photoelectric sensor or edges, which prevent the door from closing on objects, including people, pets, or vehicles. Make sure your garage door opener suits this requirement. Additionally, choose a garage door opener that has rolling code technology, which changes the garage door’s code regularly, reducing the likelihood of unauthorized persons accessing the garage via a stolen remote control.
Teaching Children Garage Door Safety
Talk to your children about the hazards of playing near garage doors. Let them know that they should never play near the garage or under the door, no matter what. Additionally, parents can use these opportunities to teach their children other road safety measures, such as waiting for cars to stop before crossing roads, walking on pavements and shoulders, and using pedestrian signals.
Installing Garage Door Safety Devices
One essential garage door safety device that every parent should have is a garage door stop. A garage door stop is a simple device that prevents the door from closing when it reaches a certain point. They are incredibly cost-effective and are easy to install. Additionally, consider installing a garage door monitor that will alert you when your garage door is in operation. This will give you a chance to ensure your children aren’t near the door when it’s closing or opening.
Maintaining Your Garage Door
Regular maintenance of your garage door is critical in ensuring its continued safe and reliable operation. Conduct visual inspections frequently, looking for any signs of wear and tear or damage to the garage door or its parts. Frequently, lubricate the moving parts of the garage door, and clean the door’s tracks to minimize friction and ensure proper operation. If you notice any anomalies during your inspection, schedule a professional technician to examine and repair the issue. Dive into the subject matter using this recommended external content. Learn more with this online resource.
Conclusion
While keeping children safe around garage doors should be a top priority for all parents, it’s not an impossible task. By taking simple consciences, such as educating your children, installing modern garage door openers, and maintaining your door, you can create a safe and secure environment in your home. Remember, garage door safety is a shared responsibility, so always ensure that your children understand the potential dangers of playing near garage doors and how to stay safe.
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