Garage Safety: Keep Intruders Out

One of the most common ways for house burglars to gain entrance is through a garage that is attached to the house. Most people take great care to lock their windows and doors, and even install elaborate alarm systems, but frequently they fail to protect their garage in a similar fashion.

When you move into a new house, it is standard to change all of the locks. Your garage should be treated as an extension of your house, and the door opener system should be replaced or reset as soon as your move in.

Remote Controls
Remote controls are the most common device for opening a garage. Although they are usually simple gadgets, you need to realize the power of remote openers. Remote control openers are essentially house keys in a different shape. Treat yours as you would treat the key to your front door.

Never leave openers outside of the house where someone could find it. It is best not to leave remote controls in your car either, but if you must, make sure that the doors are locked and the windows are up. If you leave you car with a parking attendant, always take the remote control with you.

Access Codes
Most garage opening systems are backed up with a keypad and access code in case you lose your remote control. Reset your code when you first move in, and every year after that. Choose a number and never give it out to anyone who does not live in the house. Make sure that your kids understand the importance of keeping this number private.

While You're Away
When you leave your house for an extended period of time, you should always increase the security. As no one is there to notice intruders, a break-in could be even more devastating.

Before you leave, unplug the garage door opening system. If there is no power supply to the system, the door simply will not open even if an intruder has obtained your access code or a remote control.

Take extra precautions by locking all doors in your garage whether they lead to storage or to your main house. If you have a home alarm system, extend it to your garage so that intruders will be detected before they even make it inside.