Crush Prevention Systems: Protecting Your Family
2024-04-05 5 min read
Garage doors are the largest moving objects in most homes, and they can pose serious safety risks. Modern crush prevention systems have made garage doors safer than ever, but understanding these features is essential for every homeowner. ## The Importance of Garage Door Safety According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, garage doors cause thousands of injuries each year. Children and pets are especially vulnerable. Modern safety features have significantly reduced these incidents. ## Key Safety Features ### Photo-Eye Sensors Required on all garage door openers manufactured after 1993, these sensors create an invisible beam across the door opening. If anything breaks the beam, the door stops and reverses. ### Auto-Reverse Mechanism When the door contacts an object while closing, it automatically reverses direction. Federal law requires this feature on all residential openers. ### Rolling Code Technology Prevents code-grabbing theft by changing the access code each time the remote is used. ### Manual Release Allows you to disconnect the opener and operate the door manually during power outages. ## Testing Your Safety Features Monthly tests recommended: 1. Place a 2x4 board flat on the ground under the door 2. Close the door, it should reverse upon contact 3. Wave an object through the sensor beam, door should stop immediately 4. If either test fails, call a professional immediately ## Upgrading Older Doors If your garage door opener was manufactured before 1993, it likely lacks modern safety features. Upgrading to a new system is an investment in your family's safety. Contact us for a free safety evaluation.