Everyone knows that kids have the curiosity to explore and look for trouble throughout out the home. In fact, you might have childproofed the house already, but have you thought about the garage?
Even if your kids only go in the garage when you are present, accidents can happen when your attention is diverted, and have repercussions that last for life. Please take a look at these five danger points and how to avoid them.
1. Your Vehicle
Hazards: Kids can get into the car if it is unlocked, then overheat in the sealed vehicle. They could also accidentally start the car, become trapped in the trunk, or get run over if they are standing in your blind spot.
Fixes: Auto lifts are a great option because they keep cars up off the ground while freeing up valuable floor space in the garage. Never leave your keys in the car and keep the doors, windows and trunk locked at all times. Always make sure the kids are safely out of the way before backing out; optional rear-view video cameras show you everything behind you so you can be sure.
2. The Garage Door
Hazards: Kids move fast. The garage door can kill or injure a child if it accidentally comes down on them.
Fixes: Test your garage door regularly to ensure that it’s in good working order, and keep remotes well away from your child’s reach. Your garage door should automatically reverse if obstructed. If it does not, immediately call your local garage door dealer request a repair.
3. Hazardous Chemicals
Hazards: Kids can get into cleaning supplies, laundry supplies, and dangerous fluids like wiper fluid, paint, and gasoline. They can spill them, slip in them, get burned by them, or even attempt to ingest them.
Fixes: Hazardous chemicals should be stored according to the directions on the label, either out of sight and reach of children, or in a locked box or cabinet. Containers should have childproof lids as well.
4. Tools & Equipment
Hazards: Sharp, shiny objects like shovels and hedge clippers are attractive to kids, as are power tools that can cause injury or death. Large items, from rakes to baseball bats, can be accidentally tipped over or pulled down.
Fixes: Use a ceiling storage system or a locker secured to the wall, to keep your tools organized and out of reach. You can also use a pegboard, with the caveat that determined toddlers will still be able to see your items and might therefore find a way to get at them. You can also make your workbench or certain areas off‑limits for kids.
5. Storage Containers
Hazards: Large containers stacked on top of one another can fall; open containers, such as chest freezers and coolers, can trap and suffocate children who venture inside. Open containers can also collect water which can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and insects in the summer, and can even drown a child if they fall in.
Fixes: Keep freezers locked so kids can’t climb into them; empty melted ice water out of coolers, store buckets upside down, and lock recycling bins and other large containers.
A childproof garage is absolutely necessary wherever children are present. Let these tips be your guide to a childproof garage.
If you’re worried that your garage door may be a safety risk for your child, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free quote on a new garage door. Stay safe!
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