Garage Door Safety Tips for Children and Pets

Garage doors can be dangerous to children and pets because they are heavy and can cause serious injury or even death if they are not used properly. 

Garage doors can vary in weight depending on their size, material, and construction. A typical single-car garage door made of steel can weigh anywhere from 130 to 350 pounds, while a double-car garage door can weigh between 250 to 700 pounds. Wooden garage doors tend to be even heavier, with a single-car door weighing around 400 to 500 pounds and a double-car door weighing between 800 to 1,000 pounds.

The weight of a garage door is one of the reasons why it can be dangerous if it is not used correctly. Garage doors are typically supported by springs, cables, and other mechanical components that allow them to open and close smoothly and safely. However, if these components are not functioning properly or are damaged, the weight of the garage door can cause it to fall unexpectedly and cause serious injury or damage.

Some potential dangers include:

1. Getting caught under a closing garage door: Children and pets may not be able to move out of the way quickly enough when a garage door is closing, which can lead to serious injuries or even death. Modern garage doors should be equipped with safety sensors and other features to help prevent this, however, if your garage door needs repair, they may not function well enough to provide peace of mind.
2. Getting fingers or hands caught in the door tracks: Children may be tempted to touch or play with the door tracks, which can result in their fingers or hands getting caught in the tracks.
3. Accidentally activating the garage door: Children may accidentally press the button on the garage door remote or wall panel, causing the door to close on them.
4. Garage door spring failure: The springs on a garage door can wear out or break over time, which can cause the door to fall unexpectedly and cause serious injuries.
5. Carbon monoxide poisoning: Carbon monoxide can build up in an enclosed garage, which can be lethal to both humans and animals.

While they may seem benign on the surface, garage doors do pose a safety risk to children and pets. Making the environment safe is simple for parents and caregivers, so it shouldn't cause unnecessary anxiety. You can help ensure children and pets are safe around your garage door by following proper garage door safety procedures.

Here are some garage door safety tips for children and pets:

1. Keep the garage door remote out of reach: Children and pets should not be allowed to play with the garage door remote. Keep it out of reach and ensure it is not accessible to them.
2. Teach your children about garage door safety: Educate them about the potential dangers of garage doors and how to use them safely. Teach them to never stand under a moving garage door and to keep their hands and fingers away from the tracks and moving parts.
3. Install motion sensors: Consider installing motion sensors on your garage door opener that will automatically stop the door from closing if it detects movement.
4. Regularly inspect your garage door: Conduct regular inspections of your garage door to ensure that it is in good working condition. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cables or worn rollers, and address them promptly. Ensure the sensor is not covered by dust, objects, or spider webs so that it functions as it should.
5. Regularly test the garage door: you can even regularly test the garage door do ensure it is not falling too quickly and nothing is loose that shouldn't be.
6. Don't allow children or pets to play near the garage door: Children and pets should not be allowed to play near the garage door. Keep toys and other items away from the door to avoid them being accidentally caught in the door.
7. Keep the garage door closed when not in use: Keep the garage door closed when not in use to prevent children and pets from entering the garage without your knowledge.
8. Consider installing a garage door safety system: There are several safety systems available that can be installed on your garage door to prevent accidents, such as safety sensors, safety cables, and more.
9. Install a camera: If you have a camera system in your home, consider adding another camera to the inside of the garage. Not only will this give your belongings more security, but it will allow you to keep a close eye on children and pets who may be temporarily unattended.

1. At what age can children safely use a garage door remote? Children should be taught garage door safety from a young age, but it is generally recommended that they only operate the garage door remote once they are at least 12 years old and can understand and follow proper safety procedures.
2. What should I do if my child is caught under a closing garage door? If a child is caught under a closing garage door, immediately stop the door from closing and seek medical attention if necessary. It is important to have a plan for emergencies and practice proper garage door safety procedures with children.
3. Can I install a garage door safety system to protect my children? Yes, there are several garage door safety systems available that can help prevent accidents and injuries, such as safety sensors, safety cables, and more. Consult with a garage door professional to determine the best safety system for your needs.
4. What should I do if my child accidentally activates the garage door while playing? If a child accidentally triggers the garage door while playing, immediately stop the door from closing and reinforce the importance of garage door safety with your child. It may also be helpful to install motion sensors that will automatically stop the door if it detects movement.
5. How can I teach my children about garage door safety? Educate your children about the potential dangers of garage doors and how to use them safely. Teach them to never stand under a moving garage door and to keep their hands and fingers away from the tracks and moving parts.
6. Are there any safety tips specifically for pets and garage doors? Pets should also be kept away from the garage door and not allowed to play near it. Consider installing motion sensors on your garage door opener that will automatically stop the door from closing if it detects movement.
7. Can carbon monoxide be a danger to children and pets in the garage? Yes, carbon monoxide can build up in an enclosed garage, which can be lethal to both humans and animals. You should install a carbon monoxide detector in the garage and avoid running engines or other fuel-burning equipment in the garage.
8. How often should I inspect my garage door for safety? It is a good idea to inspect your garage door every six months and to hire a professional for a more comprehensive inspection annually.

In summary, garage doors can be dangerous for children and pets without proper safety precautions. By following these tips, you can help ensure the safety of your loved ones and pets while still enjoying the convenience of your garage door.