2023-12-28 5 min read
# Crush Prevention Systems: Protecting Your Family
Garage doors are the largest moving object in most homes. Modern safety features, particularly crush prevention systems, are essential for protecting your family from serious injuries.
Every year, thousands of injuries occur from garage door accidents:
- Children are particularly vulnerable, Pets can be injured, Property damage can occur, Some accidents are fatal
Modern safety systems prevent these tragic accidents., all garage door openers sold in the United States have been required to include safety features.
This critical feature reverses the door when it contacts an obstruction:
How It Works: - Sensors detect pressure when door hits object, Motor immediately reverses direction, Door opens fully
Testing Your Auto-Reverse: 1. Place a 2x4 flat on the ground 2. Close the garage door 3. Door should reverse upon contact 4. Test monthly
Invisible beam sensors that stop the door before contact:
Features: - Mounted 6 inches from the ground, Creates invisible beam across opening, Stops and reverses door when beam is broken
Maintenance: - Keep lenses clean, Ensure proper alignment, Test monthly by breaking the beam
If your sensors aren't working properly, our repair technicians can diagnose and fix the issue quickly.
Modern openers have adjustable force limits:
- Prevents door from applying excessive pressure, Can be adjusted for different door weights, Should be set to minimum force needed
For doors with automatic closing:
- Warning sounds before closing, Flashing lights alert people, Sensors still active during closing
All garage door openers sold in the US must comply with UL 325:
- Mandatory auto-reverse, Entrapment protection, External entrapment devices, Mandatory labeling
The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends:
- Monthly safety tests, Visual inspections, Professional annual maintenance, Immediate repair of safety issues
If your garage door opener was manufactured before 1993:
Consider Upgrading Because: - Older systems lack modern safety features, Auto-reverse may be less sensitive, Photo-eye sensors weren't required
Modern Features Include: - Multiple safety systems, Battery backup, Smart monitoring, Motion-detecting lighting
Consider our opener installation service for the latest safety technology.
Educate your family about garage door safety:
1. Never play near a moving door 2. Keep remotes away from children 3. Watch for the door when entering/exiting 4. Never try to race under a closing door 5. Report any unusual sounds or behavior
A professional inspection includes:
- Force testing, Photo-eye alignment, Auto-reverse testing, Spring and cable inspection, Hardware security check
Our maintenance service includes a complete safety check to give you peace of mind.
Crush prevention systems save lives. Regular testing and maintenance ensures these safety features work when you need them.
Concerned about your garage door safety? Contact Garage Door East Taunton for a comprehensive safety inspection and any necessary upgrades.