Your garage door is one of the largest moving systems in your home – and one of the most used. It’s easy to take for granted until something goes wrong. Whether you’re pulling out for work or letting the kids grab their bikes, garage door safety should always be a priority.
At Springfield Overhead Door, we believe safety starts with awareness. A well-maintained garage door not only keeps your family protected but also improves your home’s efficiency and security. Here’s what every homeowner should know about staying safe and keeping their garage door in top condition.
1. Keep Safety Sensors Clean and Aligned
Modern garage doors are equipped with photo-eye safety sensors located near the bottom of the tracks. These small devices send an invisible beam between them. If something breaks that beam while the door is closing, the door automatically stops and reverses to prevent injury or damage.
Over time, dirt, leaves, or even a slight bump can knock these sensors out of alignment. To keep them working properly:
- Wipe the lenses gently with a soft, dry cloth.
- Make sure both sensors are aligned and facing each other evenly.
- Check that the LED lights on each sensor are steady (not blinking).
If the sensors are malfunctioning, your door might refuse to close or close only partway. Learn more about troubleshooting sensor problems and other opener issues in our post on Common Garage Door Opener Issues and Troubleshooting Solutions.
2. Never Ignore Noises or Jerky Movement
Your garage door should open and close smoothly. Grinding, squeaking, or jerking motions can indicate worn rollers, loose hardware, or spring tension problems. These aren’t just annoyances – they’re early signs of potential failure.
Springs, in particular, are under extreme tension and can be dangerous to handle without proper tools and training. If you suspect spring or cable damage, it’s best to contact a professional right away.
Regular maintenance can prevent these issues from becoming emergencies. Check out our blog on Preventative Maintenance: 5 Tips to Avoid Costly Garage Door Repairs for practical ways to keep your system safe and reliable.
3. Test the Auto-Reverse Feature
Your garage door’s auto-reverse system is one of its most important safety mechanisms. This feature ensures the door reverses direction if it encounters resistance while closing.
You can test it easily:
- Open the door fully.
- Place a sturdy object like a wood block or roll of paper towels on the floor beneath it.
- Press the close button.
The door should reverse immediately upon contact. If it doesn’t, disconnect the opener and contact a service technician before using the door again.
4. Teach Kids Garage Door Safety Rules
Children are naturally curious, but garage doors aren’t toys. Make sure your family understands a few simple safety guidelines:
- Never run under a moving garage door.
- Don’t play with the wall switch or remote controls.
- Keep fingers and hands away from joints or tracks.
It’s also a good idea to mount the wall control at least five feet off the ground, out of children’s reach.
5. Keep Remotes and Keypads Secure
A garage door remote is essentially a key to your home. Avoid leaving it in your car’s visor or an unlocked vehicle. Instead, keep remotes and keypads secure and change entry codes periodically if you use wireless access.
If your opener is outdated, upgrading to a smart system with encrypted technology can provide better protection. Many newer systems also send alerts when your door opens or closes, adding an extra layer of security.
6. Schedule Professional Inspections
Even with regular upkeep, professional inspections are essential. A trained technician can spot issues that might not be visible to the average homeowner, such as frayed cables, worn bearings, or weak springs.
At Springfield Overhead Door, we recommend an annual inspection to ensure your system operates safely and efficiently year-round. Our technicians check all moving parts, test safety mechanisms, and make necessary adjustments for optimal performance.
7. Know When to Call for Repairs
If your garage door suddenly stops responding, moves unevenly, or feels heavy to lift, stop using it immediately. Forcing it can worsen the damage or create a safety hazard.
Our team provides prompt, reliable repair service throughout Springfield and the Miami Valley. Whether it’s a sensor issue, motor failure, or spring replacement, we’ll restore your door’s safety and functionality quickly. Reach out to us anytime through our contact page.
8. Stay Informed and Prepared
Garage door safety is an ongoing process. By performing monthly checks, listening for unusual sounds, and keeping up with maintenance, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and protect your family from accidents.
For additional guidance, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers comprehensive homeowner resources on safe garage door operation. Visit their Garage Door Safety Center for more detailed information.
Springfield Overhead Door: Your Partner in Safety and Reliability
For more than 30 years, Springfield Overhead Door has been helping homeowners across the Miami Valley keep their garage doors running safely and efficiently. From preventive maintenance to emergency repairs, we are committed to service you can trust.
If you’re due for a safety inspection or notice something off with your system, call 937-325-4361 or contact us online today. Keeping your home safe starts with a door that works the way it should – every time.
Springfield Overhead Door 
Leave a comment