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Why Garage Security Matters While You’re Away
Leaving for a vacation means an empty home, making it a prime target for burglars. Garages are a common entry point for intruders, especially if they provide direct access to the house. Strengthening garage security before traveling is essential to protecting valuables, vehicles, and your property.
From smart garage door technology to reinforced locks, the right security measures help prevent break-ins and provide peace of mind.
1. Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door Opener
Traditional garage door openers can be a security risk if they rely on outdated technology. Smart garage door openers allow homeowners to monitor and control their garage doors remotely through a smartphone app.
Benefits of a Smart Opener:
- Close and open the garage door from anywhere
- Receive real-time notifications of any activity
- Set schedules to automatically close the door at night
- Integrate with smart home security systems
Upgrading to a Wi-Fi-enabled garage door opener eliminates the risk of forgetting to close the door and ensures added security while traveling.
2. Secure the Emergency Release Mechanism
The emergency release cord is a useful safety feature, but it can also be exploited by burglars. Using a simple coat hanger, thieves can pull the release and manually lift the garage door.
Ways to Secure the Emergency Release:
- Use a zip tie to secure the release lever (easy to cut in emergencies)
- Install a garage door shield to block access to the release cord
- Park a vehicle close to the door inside the garage to prevent lifting
Simple adjustments to the emergency release system significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized entry.
3. Install Motion-Sensor Lighting
A well-lit exterior deters criminals by eliminating hiding spots. Motion-sensor garage lighting is a cost-effective way to improve security.
Placement Recommendations:
- Above the garage door entrance
- Along the driveway
- Near side doors or windows
According to the National Crime Prevention Council, well-lit homes are less likely to be targeted by burglars. Consider installing smart security cameras with built-in motion detection for added protection.
4. Reinforce Your Garage Door and Side Entry Doors
Weak garage doors or old locks can make break-ins easier. Upgrading to a reinforced garage door with heavy-duty materials can prevent forced entry.
Ways to Strengthen Garage Doors:
- Install a deadbolt lock on side garage doors
- Use a garage door defender bar to prevent prying
- Upgrade to steel or composite garage doors for durability
Lakeside Doors offers high-quality garage doors with stronger materials and advanced locking mechanisms, making it harder for intruders to break in.
5. Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
For extended trips, disconnecting the garage door opener motor is an extra layer of protection. This prevents code grabbing attacks, where burglars intercept garage door signals to gain access.
How to Disable the Opener:
- Unplug the garage door opener from the power source
- Lock the garage door manually using a slide lock
- Use a manual garage door lock for added security
Manually securing the garage door prevents any unauthorized opening while the home is unoccupied.
6. Don’t Leave the Garage Door Remote in Your Car
Many break-ins happen when thieves steal a garage door remote from a parked car. Keeping the remote in the vehicle, especially when parked outside, is a security risk.
Better Alternatives:
- Use a keychain remote instead of a visor clip remote
- Store the remote in a locked glove box
- Opt for smartphone-based garage control to eliminate remotes altogether
This simple habit prevents unauthorized garage access if a car is stolen or broken into.
7. Have a Trusted Neighbor Check In
Even with the best security measures, having someone monitor the house can be the best deterrent. Asking a trusted neighbor, family member, or house sitter to periodically check on the garage prevents signs of an empty home.
Additional Security Measures While Away:
- Put garage lights on timers
- Stop mail and newspaper deliveries
- Avoid posting vacation plans on social media
A vacant home that looks occupied is less likely to be targeted by intruders.
8. Consider Professional Garage Door Security Services
Regular maintenance ensures that the garage door remains secure and fully functional. Professional inspections help identify weak locks, faulty sensors, or worn-out springs that could become security vulnerabilities.
Lakeside Doors provides garage door inspections, lock upgrades, and security reinforcements for homes and businesses. Scheduling a service check before a trip ensures that everything is in working order.
The International Door Association recommends regular garage door inspections to ensure optimal security. Worn-out locks, faulty sensors, or outdated garage door mechanisms can become weak points in home security.
Stay Secure While Enjoying Your Vacation
Taking the right precautions before traveling prevents garage break-ins and security risks. Smart technology, reinforced doors, motion-sensor lighting, and proper garage habits all contribute to keeping your property safe while you’re away. For garage door security upgrades, repairs, or new installations, contact Lakeside Doors today to receive expert services to protect homes and businesses.