Is Your Garage Secure?

When assessing the security of your home and property, any worthwhile professional will ask, “Is your garage secure?” If you’re not working with a professional, then this question may become even more important, as it’s your job to ensure that you have taken the right steps to make sure that your garage is, in fact, secure against theft and other damage.

While we generally think about theft when we discuss the security of our property, you may need to consider other dangers.

Is Your Garage Secure against Fire?

There are typically a multitude of electrical tools at use in any given garage. Add to that an electric garage door opener and perhaps a refrigerator or freezer, and there is a fair amount of electricity being used by your garage. On the other hand, it’s not the first place we think of when it’s time to upgrade the electrical system. It may be worthwhile to do an evaluation of your garage’s circuits. Be sure that everything is up to code and that you’re not overloading any of your outlets.

Another fire danger in the garage comes from the various chemicals that are often stored out there. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s suggestions for storage on anything that is flammable. In addition, rags (especially those covered in grease or other chemicals) add to the risk of a fire. There are safe ways to store these rags, and spending a few minutes educating yourself now can save a lot of headache and heartache in the case of a garage fire.

Is Your Garage Secure Against Theft?

In order to secure your garage against theft, there are a few precautions you should take. An electric garage door opener can be quite the helpful gadget, but it can also lead to a lack of security. In order to beef up your protection, consider changing the combination in both the receiver and the remote. This is relatively easy to do, just check the instructions that came with your opener or do a quick search on the Internet.

Another way to protect your belongings is to refrain from leaving your garage door open for extended periods of time. This is obviously important when you are away from home, as anyone could walk in and steal your belongings. Still, it’s a good idea when you are home, too, as leaving the door open gives others a clear view of your garage’s contents. If you have something especially appealing in there, it could encourage someone to break in the next time you’re gone.

The most important devices you have to protect your garage against theft are the doors. Make sure that small doors are solid, rather than hollow. Invest in good locks. If you are using a padlock, go with high quality. The large garage doors should shut completely and should not have any loose panels or bent corners that would allow a thief to pry them open. Finally, make sure that any windows are also locked and secured.

Contact Pinnacle Security for more safety tips and information on how you can have your own security system installed today.