We often see the garage as just a storage space or a way into the house. But when you have kids or pets at home, your garage door might be hiding more dangers than you think.
Whether you’re in Surrey, Burnaby, or Vancouver, safety should be your top priority. Let’s talk about the hidden hazards of garage doors—and how to keep your loved ones safe.
1. The Garage Door: More Than Just a Door
Garage doors are heavy. They move using powerful mechanisms. And yes, when not working properly, they can become a real safety hazard.
Children love to play around the garage. Dogs and cats like to sneak under doors. But a small mistake, like a malfunctioning garage door sensor, could lead to a major accident.
👉 If you’ve been putting off a safety check, now is the time. Our garage door repair services across British Columbia are just a click away.
2. Common Garage Door Risks for Kids and Pets
⚠️ Automatic Sensors That Fail
Modern garage doors come with auto-reverse sensors. If these fail, the door may not stop when something—or someone—is in its path.
Test them regularly. Place a roll of paper towels under the door. If it doesn’t reverse, you need a technician ASAP.
⚠️ Pinched Fingers and Curious Hands
Kids tend to touch everything. That includes garage door tracks, hinges, and rollers. One wrong move and they could get their fingers caught.
Consider installing pinch-resistant garage doors. They’re designed to prevent this very issue.
👉 Learn more about our safe and child-friendly garage doors.
⚠️ Unsecured Remote Controls
Garage door remotes may seem harmless. But in the hands of a toddler, they can open the garage without warning.
Keep your remotes out of reach. Also, consider a smart garage door opener with smartphone controls and alerts.
3. Why Garage Door Maintenance Is Non-Negotiable
Routine garage door maintenance isn’t just about smooth operation. It’s about safety.
Over time, springs wear out. Tracks bend. Sensors get dusty. These small issues can lead to serious accidents—especially if kids or pets are nearby when the door fails.
At Unique Garage Doors, we offer thorough garage door tune-ups in cities like Langley, Coquitlam, Abbotsford, and beyond. We make sure everything works the way it should.
4. Tips to Make Your Garage Door Safer Today
You don’t need a full renovation to make your garage safer. Here’s what you can do right away:
- ✔ Install motion sensors or garage door cameras
- ✔ Schedule annual maintenance with trusted local professionals
- ✔ Teach kids to never run under a closing door
- ✔ Keep pet toys away from garage entrance areas
- ✔ Check and test auto-reverse safety features monthly
👉 Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Book a safety inspection with our team today.
5. Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Garage Door System
Sometimes, repair isn’t enough. If your garage door is:
- Over 10–15 years old
- Making loud or grinding noises
- Not closing all the way
- Frequently stuck or off track
…it may be time for an upgrade.
We offer modern garage door installations with the latest safety features. If you’re unsure whether it’s time for a replacement, check out our garage door installation guide.
Final Thoughts: Protect What Matters Most
At the end of the day, your garage door isn’t just about security or convenience. It’s about your family’s safety.
Whether you’re a pet parent, a new homeowner with toddlers, or someone who just wants peace of mind, taking a few simple steps can prevent serious accidents.
Need help from local experts who truly care?
Reach out to Unique Garage Doors for safe, efficient, and family-friendly garage door solutions in your area.
You protect your home. Now, protect your kids and pets too.
We’re just a message away 👉 Contact Us