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10 Simple Steps to Boost Security During Garage Door Safety Month

Garage Door Safety Month is the perfect time to focus on securing one of the most vulnerable entry points to your home. 

With a few simple steps, you can greatly enhance the safety and security of your garage door, ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through ten straightforward actions you can take to strengthen your garage door’s security.

1. Check the Door's Balance

The balance of your garage door plays a crucial role in its overall security and function. 

An unbalanced door can be a sign of worn-out springs or other components, which could lead to a malfunction. 

To check the balance, disconnect the garage door opener and manually lift the door. 

If it doesn’t stay open about three to four feet off the ground, it’s time to call a professional for an adjustment. 

This is a simple yet effective step to take during Garage Door Safety Month.

2. Inspect the Garage Door Opener

Your garage door opener should have a rolling code feature that changes the access code each time the remote is used. 

This prevents would-be thieves from capturing your code and gaining entry. If your opener doesn’t have this feature, consider upgrading to a more secure model. 

Regularly testing the opener to ensure it’s working correctly is another essential step during Garage Door Safety Month.

3. Secure the Emergency Release

The emergency release is a necessary feature, but it can also be a security weakness if not properly secured. 

During Garage Door Safety Month, make sure the emergency release cord is out of reach of potential intruders. 

Consider adding a zip tie to the release latch to prevent easy access. 

Just be sure the tie is easily breakable in case of an actual emergency.

4. Test the Auto-Reverse Feature

The auto-reverse feature is designed to prevent accidents through automatically reversing the door if it encounters an obstruction. 

Testing this feature is a must during Garage Door Safety Month. 

Place a small object like a block of wood in the door’s path and attempt to close it. 

If the door doesn’t reverse immediately, this is a sign that the feature is not functioning properly and needs to be addressed.

5. Reinforce the Door Itself

A weak or outdated garage door can be a major security risk. 

If your door is made of lightweight materials, consider reinforcing it with a metal or solid-core upgrade. 

For those who prefer not to replace the door, adding a layer of plywood to the interior can also improve its strength. 

Ensuring your door is sturdy is a critical step in boosting security during Garage Door Safety Month.

6. Install Motion Sensor Lights

Motion sensor lights are an effective deterrent against intruders. Installing these lights around your garage is a simple and cost-effective way to enhance security. 

These lights will automatically turn on when they detect movement, potentially scaring off anyone attempting to gain entry. 

This is an easy improvement to make during Garage Door Safety Month.

7. Keep the Garage Door Closed

This might sound obvious, but many people forget to close their garage doors when they leave or even while they’re home. 

An open garage door is an invitation for trouble. 

Make it a habit to check that the door is closed whenever you leave the house or go to bed. 

During Garage Door Safety Month, consider installing a garage door monitor or smartphone app to alert you if the door is left open.

8. Secure the Garage Door Remote

Leaving your garage door remote in your car, especially if it’s parked outside, is a common mistake. 

During Garage Door Safety Month, get into the habit of taking the remote with you when you exit the car. 

Better yet, consider replacing the remote with a keychain version that you can easily carry with you.

9. Add a Lock to the Garage Door

A manual lock can provide an extra layer of security. 

This is especially useful if you’re going on vacation or won’t be using the garage for an extended period. 

A sturdy padlock or a garage door side lock can prevent the door from being opened manually from the outside.

It’s a small but effective measure to consider during Garage Door Safety Month.

10. Inspect and Replace Weather Stripping

Weather stripping along the bottom of your garage door isn’t just for insulation; it also helps to keep out pests and moisture. 

However, old or damaged weather stripping can create gaps that could be exploited through intruders. 

Inspect the weather stripping during Garage Door Safety Month and replace it if it’s worn out. 

This simple task will not only improve security but also help maintain the door’s longevity.

Why We Care About Your Garage Door Safety

During Garage Door Safety Month, taking these simple steps can significantly enhance the security of your garage and home. 

At Peter and Sons Construction, we understand the importance of keeping your family safe. 

That’s why we offer a range of services to ensure your garage door is secure and functioning properly. 

If you need a tune-up, a new installation, or advice on improving your garage door’s security, we’re here to help. 

We believe in providing quality service without the hard sell because your safety is our priority. 

Visit us at Peter and Sons Construction to learn more about how we can assist you this Garage Door Safety Month.

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