For many homeowners, a garage is more than just a place to store vehicles. It can also be a workspace, storage area, and sometimes, an extension of the living space. For families with pets, the garage can even serve as a temporary resting place for our furry friends. However, without proper safety precautions, this space can pose risks to our pets. In this article, our garage door specialists will explore essential garage door safety measures every pet owner should consider.
1. Install Pet Sensors
Modern garage doors often come with motion or infrared sensors designed to stop the door from closing if something is detected in its path. For households with pets, these sensors are invaluable. They ensure that if your cat or dog darts under a closing door, the door will stop and reverse to prevent injury.
2. Regular Maintenance Checks
An unmaintained garage door can become unpredictable, which is a significant risk if your pets frequent the area. Ensure that all parts, especially the springs and cables, are in good working order. Scheduling professional inspections annually can help detect and fix potential problems before they become hazards.
3. Keep the Remote Out of Reach
Curious pets, especially dogs, might mistake a garage door remote for a toy. Keeping remotes out of pets’ reach ensures they don’t accidentally open or close the door.
4. Secure All Toxic Substances
Garages often house potentially harmful substances like antifreeze, which can be lethal to pets even in small amounts. Ensure all chemicals are stored in secure cabinets or high shelves where curious noses and paws can’t access them.
5. Train and Educate
Just as you might teach a child about garage door safety, it’s beneficial to train your pets. Using commands like “stay” or “wait” can keep your pet safe when you’re opening or closing the door.
6. Ventilation is Crucial
If your pet spends any amount of time in the garage, ensure there’s adequate ventilation, especially during hot months. Overexposure to heat in an enclosed space can lead to heatstroke in animals.
7. Watch Out for Tails and Paws
When closing the garage door, ensure that no tails or paws are in the way. A quick visual sweep can make a big difference.
8. Pet-Proofing the Garage
Just as you would baby-proof a room, consider pet-proofing your garage. This might include protective measures like covering sharp edges, ensuring small objects that can be swallowed are out of reach, and using protective covers over power outlets.
9. Install a Pet Door
If your pets move in and out of the garage regularly, consider installing a pet door. This allows them more freedom and reduces the number of times the main garage door needs to be opened and closed.
10. Consider Visual Barriers
Pets can get startled or excited by the movement outside, leading them to dash out unexpectedly when the garage door is opened. Using visual barriers, like frosted windows or curtains, can help reduce these sudden impulses.
Our pets are treasured members of the family, and their safety is paramount. By taking these measures, pet owners can ensure that their garage remains a safe space for all family members, whether on two legs or four. Remember, a safe pet is a happy pet, and a little bit of precaution can lead to a harmonious home environment.
Spark Garage Doors Repair Aurora company performs garage door services in Aurora, Colorado. Feel free to call us at 720 800 9966 for garage door repair, installation, maintenance, and replacement.