4 Signs That Your Kids Could Be At Risk Of Being Harmed By Your Garage Door
Posted on: 1 April 2015
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If your home has a garage and garage door, then you should know that there is a chance that your kids are at risk. Garage doors, although handy, can also be dangerous for small children. Luckily, if you learn to look out for these signs, then you can take necessary steps to help keep your kids safe.
1. Your Garage Door is Old
Nowadays, garage doors are equipped with safety devices to keep both children and adults safe. Basically, garage doors with this safety mechanism are designed to operate in reverse in the event that someone walks underneath the door while it is closing. If your garage door was made before January 1, 1993, then it might not have this safety mechanism. If this is the case, then it is imperative to have it replaced immediately to help prevent injury.
2. You Haven't Talked to Them About Garage Door Safety
Don't assume that your kids know to stay safe around the garage door. Make sure that you sit them down and talk to them about not playing with the garage door opener and not walking underneath the garage door when it is in motion. Although taking proper safety tips can help prevent injury in these events, it's best to talk to your kids about being safe around the garage door themselves.
3. Your Garage Door Opener is in the Wrong Spot
Many homes have garage door openers right by the exterior door that leads from the garage into the home. Although this garage door opener can be handy, it can also be very tempting to a small child who likes to press buttons. If you have small kids, consider having your garage door opener moved a little higher so that they cannot reach it. Also, be careful about leaving any remote garage door openers—such as the one that you might keep on your visor in your car or on your key chain—where your kids can reach them.
4. You Don't Have Your Garage Door Inspected Regularly
Safety mechanisms can fail over time, and garage door chains and other components can rust and otherwise pose a safety hazard. Therefore, it's important to have your garage door inspected by a professional like Overhead Door Co. of Everett Inc. on a regular basis. Take a look at your garage door regularly to look for rusty or old parts, and have it inspected by a professional at least once a year.
Garage doors and automatic garage door openers can certainly be handy, but they can also be dangerous if you have small children. Keep an eye out for these signs that your kids could be at risk, and make necessary changes to help keep your entire family safe.