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Garage doors are an essential part of your home and/or residential business, providing security, convenience, and curb appeal. However, they also present potential safety hazards if not properly maintained or used. At Lakeside Doors, we believe that understanding and addressing these safety aspects is key to ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.
Automatic Reversal Systems
Modern garage doors are equipped with automatic reversal systems designed to prevent accidents. These systems rely on sensors that detect objects or obstructions in the door path. If an obstruction is detected, the door reverses direction to avoid causing injury or damage.
Safety Tip: Test your door’s automatic reversal system regularly by placing a sturdy object, such as a block of wood, in the door’s path. If the door doesn’t reverse upon contact, it’s time to call a professional for maintenance.
Photo-Eye Sensors
Photo-eye sensors are another critical safety feature. Located near the base of the door tracks, these sensors emit an invisible beam. If the beam is interrupted while the door is closing, the system halts the operation and reverses the door.
Safety Tip: Keep the photo-eye sensors clean and aligned. Dust or misalignment can cause malfunctions, compromising your door’s safety.
Manual Release Mechanism
In emergencies, such as a power outage, the manual release mechanism allows you to open or close your garage door manually. This feature ensures you’re not trapped inside or locked out of your garage.
Safety Tip: Familiarize yourself with the manual release mechanism and ensure it’s functioning correctly. Refer to your garage door’s manual for guidance.
Regular Maintenance
Garage doors are heavy and rely on numerous components, such as springs, cables, and tracks, to operate smoothly. Regular maintenance can prevent wear and tear that might lead to failures or accidents.
Safety Tip: Schedule professional inspections at least once a year. A trained technician can identify and address potential issues before they become serious hazards.
Child Safety
Children often view garage doors as toys, which can lead to dangerous situations. Educating your family about garage door safety is essential to prevent injuries.
Safety Tip: Teach children never to play with the garage door or its remote controls. Ensure wall-mounted controls are installed out of reach of small children.
Weather-Related Safety
Extreme weather can affect the operation of your garage door. Cold weather might cause metal parts to contract, while heat can warp certain components. Both scenarios can lead to malfunctions if left unaddressed.
Safety Tip: Inspect your garage door for weather-related wear and tear, especially after extreme conditions. Applying lubricant to moving parts can help maintain smooth operation.
Secure Remote Controls
Garage door remotes provide convenience but can also pose a security risk if misplaced or stolen. Intruders could gain access to your home using a lost remote.
Safety Tip: Keep your remotes in a secure location and consider upgrading to a smart garage door opener that uses your smartphone for access.
Your garage door plays a vital role in your home’s safety and functionality. By staying informed and proactive about maintenance and safety features, you can minimize risks and ensure your door operates smoothly for years to come. If you’re ever in doubt about your garage door’s safety or performance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Lakeside Doors.
Lakeside Doors has been a trusted name in garage door services for over a decade. We specialize in installation, maintenance, and repair of garage doors, offering a wide range of high-quality products and services to meet the unique needs of our customers. Our team of skilled technicians is dedicated to ensuring your garage door operates safely and efficiently. With a commitment to excellence, we provide personalized solutions that enhance the security and aesthetics of your home and/or business.
Ready for a safer garage door? Contact Lakeside Doors today to schedule a safety inspection or upgrade your system with the latest features!
