One way intruders try to get in to a home is through the garage doors. While many improvements have been made in garage door openers to ensure security, some are better than others. There are certain features to look for and safety measures that homeowners can take to make sure that no intruders are able to enter their home through the use of their garage doors.
- Rolling codes. Newer models of garage door openers come with what are called rolling codes. This means they change access codes each time you use the opener. This is important to keep criminals from “grabbing” the code. If you have an older model, consider updating it or at least changing the manufacture code.
- Remote controls. Never leave your garage door remote control in your car. If a thief breaks into your car or you have an unscrupulous valet or parking attendant, they may now have access to your home.
- Lock the home entry door. This may seem like an inconvenience, but in case someone does get into your garage, you should keep the door to the home locked. It is worth having to unlock it every time to keep your home safer.
- Unplug the door opener. If you will be out of town for a few days or longer, consider unplugging the garage door opener or use the vacation lock. Either should make the opener unusable while you are away.
Automatic garage door openers are a wonderful convenience and something most of us do not want to do without. However, it is important to make sure that the convenience is balanced with good safety procedures and features.
