Homeowners frequently shut their garage door, assuming it has deterred intruders. They’re generally correct; a garage door linked to an opener is very safe. However, there are a few methods that attackers may access your home via your door. This article will show you how they do it and what you can do about it.
The first thing that attackers tend to look for when trying to break into a home is an easy way in. If the front door of your house is well-protected, they may try to find another entry point – and the garage door could be that entry point.
Here are some common ways that attackers can get past the garage door:
Garage Door Fishing
This is a technique that criminals use to get the garage door opener remote from your vehicle as you drive in or out. It works by attackers hanging a fishing line on a rod over the driveway, at the right height for the opener. They pull up the line and record the code as soon as they see an opportunity to snag someone’s remote. With that code, they can open your garage door at any time.
Dumpster Diving
Attackers will rummage through your trash, looking for anything that could help them gain access to your home. This includes old bills or mail with your address on it, spare keys, or even the garage door opener remote itself.
Ten Ways to Protect your Garage Door:
You can do a few things to protect your garage door from being an easy target for attackers:
- Make sure your garage door opener remote is never left in your car. This includes hiding it in the glove compartment or under the seat. If you must leave it in the car, make sure it’s out of sight or secured with a lock.
- Be cautious of anyone who appears to be hanging around your driveway and garage area. If you don’t recognize them, keep your distance and call the police if necessary.
- Don’t forget to close the doo or when you leave your garage – even if it’s just for a moment to get the mail.
- If possible, invest in a more robust garage door that is difficult to break into or pry open. You can also install sensors on the door that trigger an alarm if someone tries to force their way through it.
- Cover windows. Covering your garage door windows is one way to make it more difficult for attackers to see what’s inside. It will also help protect your belongings from being seen and potentially stolen. You can buy window film or frosted glass to cover the windows or even hang curtains over them. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s effective at blocking visibility.
- Install additional lighting around your garage. Some attackers may try to break into your garage under cover of darkness, so having additional lighting around the area can help prevent these attacks and give you an advantage if they do happen to occur.
- As long as you take these precautions, your garage door should be a safe place for you and your family.
- Invest in an opener with built-in security features like anti-burglary mode, door sensors to detect forced entry and trigger alarms, or remote control fobs that can be programmed for specific users. With the right security features in place, you can rest easy knowing that your garage door is a strong barrier between your home and potential intruders. And with these tips in mind, you can keep your family and valuables safe.
- Lock up the garage door track. This will prevent the door from being lifted off the tracks by an attacker.
- Install a security system that covers the garage. This way, if someone does manage to get past your other security measures, you can still be alerted and call the police.
The Bottom Line:
As a homeowner, it is essential to take steps to protect your garage door from potential attackers. This can include installing stronger doors with additional security features, covering windows, and taking other precautions to deter criminals from breaking into your home. With the right measures in place, you can rest easy, knowing that your garage door will help keep your family and belongings safe.
