Garage doors are the largest moving mechanical system in most Calgary homes, and they are also one of the most common sources of household injuries. The combination of heavy moving parts, high-tension springs and fast-moving panels creates real risks — especially for households with young children and pets. Following these safety practices protects your family and keeps your system working reliably.
Test the Auto-Reverse Function Monthly
Every modern garage door opener is required by safety standards to have an auto-reverse function that stops and reverses the door if it contacts an obstacle while closing. Test it monthly: place a piece of 2x4 lumber flat on the ground in the door’s path and press the close button. The door should reverse immediately when it contacts the wood. If it does not, the safety sensors need adjustment or replacement. This is not optional — a door that does not auto-reverse is a serious hazard for children and pets.
Never Let Children Play With Remotes or Wall Buttons
The wall button and remote should be treated with the same seriousness as any power tool. Children playing with remotes can activate the door while someone or something is in its path. Mount the wall button at a height that young children cannot reach — at least 1.5 metres from the floor. Teach children that the garage door is not a toy and should never be activated without an adult present.
Spring Safety — Never Touch or Adjust
Torsion springs above the garage door are under extreme tension — enough to cause serious injury or death if released suddenly. Never attempt to adjust, lubricate or repair springs yourself. Do not touch them, do not attempt to add a wire through the spring as a safety measure without professional guidance. If a spring breaks, stay away from the door and call a professional immediately. Super G&R Garage Door Repairs provides same-day spring repair across Calgary.
Have an Emergency Procedure
Every adult in the household should know how to manually release the garage door from the opener using the red cord, and how to manually operate the door if the power is out. Practice this once so it is not the first time you do it during a winter power outage at -30°C.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I test my garage door auto-reverse safety feature?
Place a piece of 2x4 lumber flat on the ground in the door path and press close. The door must reverse when it contacts the wood. If it does not reverse, call Super G&R Garage Door Repairs for sensor repair immediately.
Are garage door springs dangerous?
Yes. Torsion springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled. Never attempt to adjust, repair or touch springs yourself. Call a professional for all spring-related work.
What should I do if my garage door safety sensor is not working?
If the sensor LED is blinking or off, first check for obstructions blocking the sensor beam. Gently realign the sensor that is not lit solid. If this does not resolve it, call Super G&R Garage Door Repairs for sensor repair.
At what height should the garage door wall button be mounted?
Mount the wall button at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) from the floor so young children cannot reach it. Treat the wall button the same as any household power tool — out of reach of children.
Ready to book? Call (825) 438-2406 or visit our contact page. Same-day service across Calgary, Airdrie, Okotoks and surrounding communities.
What Calgary Customers Say
Real reviews from Calgary homeowners. 4.9★ on Google.