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As the summer season arrives, children eagerly look forward to spending more time outdoors, playing and exploring. For many families, the garage becomes an extension of the play area, offering plenty of space for various activities such as riding bikes, playing games, or simply using it as a shaded area to escape the sun. However, it’s important to make sure the garage is a safe environment for children–unsupervised play can expose them to numerous hazards.

Let’s explore some practical tips to protect your kids and teach them about garage door safety this summer.

Identifying Potential Hazards in the Garage

Sharp Objects 

Sharp tools and objects such as saws, knives, and gardening tools are common in garages and can pose significant risks to children.  

• Store Tools Properly: Keep these objects in locked cabinets or on high shelves out of children’s reach. Secure storage prevents accidental injuries and keeps potentially dangerous items organized and accessible only to adults. 
• Use Protective Covers: Ensure all sharp tools have protective covers or sheaths when not in use. Covering sharp objects adds an extra layer of security and reduces the risk of accidental cuts or punctures. For example, covering saw blades and securing knives in protective sheaths can prevent accidental injuries when tools are being handled or stored.

Heavy Equipment

Large and heavy items, such as bicycles, lawnmowers, and power tools, are often stored in garages and can tip over or cause injuries if tampered with.

• Stabilize Equipment: Securely position lawnmowers, power tools, and other large items so they cannot be easily knocked over. Place them on stable, flat surfaces or use securing straps to hold them in place to prevent them from tipping over and causing injury to children who might accidentally bump into them or try to move them.
• Use Wall Mounts and Racks: Store large items like bicycles on wall mounts or racks to prevent potential tripping hazards and reduce the likelihood of heavy items falling over. Wall mounts and racks also provide an organized and space-efficient way to store bulky equipment, making the garage less cluttered and more navigable for children. 
• For added safety, consider using locks or chains to secure heavy tools and equipment that might be tempting for children to play with. Regularly inspect the stability and condition of mounts and racks to ensure they remain secure over time.

Toxic Chemicals

Garages frequently house a variety of chemicals, including paints, solvents, pesticides, and automotive fluids. These substances can pose significant health risks if ingested, inhaled, or even touched by children.

• Store Substances Securely: Store all toxic chemicals in locked cabinets or containers with child-resistant caps. Cabinets should be sturdy and preferably located at a height out of reach for children. Consider using cabinets with locks or padlocks to prevent children from gaining access. Additionally, storing chemicals in original containers with secure lids minimizes the risk of spills and leaks, which can lead to dangerous situations.
• Use Clear Labels: Label all chemical containers to prevent confusion and accidental exposure. Labels should be legible and include important information such as the chemical name, usage instructions, and warning symbols. Labeling helps adults identify the contents and discourages kids from tampering with the containers. In cases where the original labels are damaged or missing, replace them with new labels that accurately describe the contents and associated hazards.

Consider implementing a few additional safety measures, such as storing chemicals in a well-ventilated area to reduce the buildup of fumes, which can be harmful if inhaled. Regularly inspect storage areas for any signs of leaks or damage to containers and promptly address any issues to maintain a safe environment. Educate older children about the dangers of chemicals and the importance of not touching or playing near these substances.

Teaching Children About Garage Door Safety

Children should be closely supervised and kept at a safe distance whenever the garage door is operating. Moreover, educating them about the dangers associated with garage doors is crucial in preventing accidents. Here are some essential safety tips to teach your kids:

The Dangers of Playing Near Moving Doors

• No Play Zone: One of the most effective ways to protect children is to establish a strict “no play zone” around the garage door. Clearly mark and communicate this boundary to your children, explaining that the area near the garage door is off-limits for playing, standing, or running. Consistently reinforcing this rule helps children understand the importance of staying clear of the door’s path and minimizes the risk of accidental injury.
• Door Functions: Teach children about the garage door’s basic functions and potential dangers. Show them where the sensors and emergency release mechanisms are and explain why these features are crucial for safety. Make it clear that they should never attempt to operate the door on their own or interfere with its components.

The Importance of Not Tampering with Garage Door Controls

• Keep Controls Out of Reach: One of the simplest yet most effective measures is to install garage door controls at a height that is out of reach for young children, preventing them from accessing and potentially misusing the controls. In addition to wall-mounted controls, garage doors often have remote controls. Make sure to store the remotes in secure locations that are out of reach of children.
• Educate: Explain to your kids that the garage door controls are not toys and should only be operated by adults. Make sure they understand that tampering with the controls can result in serious accidents or injuries. Use age-appropriate language and examples to convey the importance of this rule.
• Visual Reminders: Consider placing visual reminders near the garage door controls. Simple signs or stickers that indicate the controls are for adults only and can serve as effective reminders for children. These visual cues can help reinforce the rule every time they see the control panel.
• Demonstrate Proper Use: Occasionally, demonstrate the proper use of the garage door controls safely. Show children how you operate the door, explaining each step and emphasizing the importance of safety. This demonstration can help them understand that the controls are part of the home’s infrastructure, not playthings.

Summer Garage Door Safety Measures

This summer, take proactive steps to secure your garage and educate your children, creating a safe and enjoyable play environment for them. Identifying and addressing potential hazards, teaching them about the dangers of garage doors, and establishing a designated play area are essential to prevent accidents. 

Preventative maintenance checks are also crucial to ensure all safety features are functioning correctly and that there are no emerging issues with your garage door. Schedule routine inspections to keep your door and its mechanisms in optimal condition. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in protecting your family.