Garage doors are an essential part of our homes, providing security and convenience. However, they can also be a source of accidents if not properly maintained. According to the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission, thousands of people suffer injuries from garage door accidents each year. Therefore, it is crucial to prevent such incidents by maintaining your garage door regularly.

The first step in preventing garage door accidents is regular inspection. Observe the operation of your garage door every time you use it. Listen for any unusual noises and watch for any irregular movements or signs of wear on its parts. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, call a professional immediately to inspect and repair it.

Secondly, ensure that all moving parts are well lubricated to prevent friction that could lead to wear and tear or cause the door to get stuck while in operation. Use a high-quality lubricant recommended by professionals on rollers, hinges, tracks and springs at least twice a year.

Thirdly, always keep the area around your garage door clear of objects or debris that could obstruct its path while closing or opening. An obstruction can cause damage to both the object and the door itself which may result in read more malfunctioning leading to potential accidents.

Another critical aspect is testing the auto-reverse feature regularly; this safety measure ensures that if something comes under the garage door while it’s closing, it will reverse automatically thus preventing injury or damage. You can test this feature by placing an object like a roll of paper towels under the path of the closing door – if working correctly; it should reverse when it hits the object.

Additionally, avoid DIY repairs especially when dealing with torsion springs which are usually under high tension; mishandling them can lead to serious injury as they have enough force to lift heavy doors but also enough power when released improperly causing harm.

Finally yet importantly is teaching children about garage door safety rules such as not playing near or underneath an operating one and never attempting to race against it while it’s closing or opening. Also, ensure the door opener is out of their reach.

In conclusion, regular maintenance and safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of garage door accidents. While some tasks like lubrication and inspection can be done by homeowners themselves, others like repairs should always be left to professionals due to the potential risk involved. This way, your garage door will not only function smoothly but also safely for everyone in your household.