The largest moving object in most homes is the garage door. Despite the reliability and sophistication of today's automatic garage door systems, they must be periodically adjusted and maintained to stay safe. Springs, cables, rollers, pulleys, and other door hardware are under extremely high tension. If they show signs of wear, it's important to have them repaired or replaced by a qualified person.

Every garage door operator manufactured since 1991 has a mechanism that reverses the door if it encounters any obstruction while closing. For your family's safety, older door operators which lack this feature should be replaced. A door that fails to reverse could pin a child or pet, causing injury or death. Garage door openers also should be mounted high enough so they are out of the reach of small children.

• Visual Inspection
• Look at the garage door springs, cables, rollers, pulleys and other door hardware for signs of wear. If you suspect problems, have a qualified person make repairs.
• Avoid a moving Door and Keep Hands and Fingers Clear
• Do not stand, walk or run under a moving door. Hands and fingers must be kept clear from section joints, hinges, track, springs and other door parts.
• Only Operate the Door if You Can See It
• Keep the door in sight until it closes completely.
• Test the Reversing Mechanism Monthly
• If an object obstructs the door as it is closing, the door should reverse. Make sure the garage door operator is equipped with such a reversing feature. If the door does not reverse, have it repaired or replaced by a person qualified to make repairs.
• Test the Door Balance Monthly
• With the door in the closed position and the operator disconnected, lift the door. It should lift smoothly with little resistance and should remain open. If the door is out of balance, have the door system adjusted by a person qualified to make adjustments.
• Test the Force Setting Monthly
• Hold up the bottom of the door as it closes. If the door does not easily reverse, the force is excessive and needs adjustment by a qualified person.