5 Step Checklist: Preventing Garage Break Ins

Did you know that 10% of home burglaries occur through the garage? If you're planning a trip over the holidays, leave with peace of mind knowing that your home and belongings are safe.

1) Take Your Remote/Opener

Most modern garages have automatic door openers. Although they're convenient and portable, it's important to take precautions. First, always take your remote/opener inside the home with you or attach it to your key ring. Most people leave it on the visor of their vehicles, but if a break in occurs, the burglar will have access to your vehicle and your entire garage of valuables.

2) Conceal the Safety Release Mechanism

All automatic garage doors are legally required to have a safety release mechanism controlled by a grab handle inside the garage. This exists in case your automatic garage door opener is malfunctioning or traps someone beneath the door. By pulling the safety release manually, the door fully opens. To prevent this from happening while you're away, padlock the throw latch of your garage door and no movement can occur.

3) Cover Your Garage Windows

If your garage door has windows, consider covering them from viewing by using a frosting film. That way, no one can see the valuables in your garage or identify the location of the safety release mechanism.

4) Inspect the Interior Door

It may seem like common sense, but ensure that you lock the door leading from the garage into your house. Prior to leaving, also inspect the door's frame, locking mechanism, and hinges. The door inside your garage should be as secure as your front door. Reinforced steel is a common and safe choice.

5) Install a Viewer

If you suspect possible break-ins from your garage, it helps if you have a wide-angle peephole door viewer installed. That way, instead of opening the door to find out what's going on, you can look through the peephole and safely see from indoors. If you're out of town, some home monitoring systems can provide a digital viewing experience.

Is your garage door malfunctioning? If so, contact a Creative Door professional before a break in occurs. We offer preventative maintenance packages and a wide selection of new models to choose from.