Automatic gate systems are expensive to install and the reason for this is mainly the high cost of gate motors, materials used for the gate and labour fees that are payable to a contractor for managing installation of the gate. Unfortunately, automatic gates have been in the middle of some serious accidents that could have been avoided if due care and safety precautions were taken. Below are some tips for homeowners to ensure safety around the gate.
• By far the most important thing is to make sure that the gate is installed securely. Homeowners must choose a reliable supplier of automatic gate systems and an equally reliable contractor. A qualified contractor that has experience in this type of project and has contactable references comes highly recommended.
• The gate must be maintained and serviced regularly and checked at least once every six months for any signs of wear and tear. If there are any concerns, a contractor must be called out as soon as possible.
• Sometimes a manufacturer may introduce updates that further enhance the functions of an automatic gate system. It is advisable for homeowners to acquire those updates.
• Cars must not drive too close to each other at the gate in cases it closes in. Vehicles must also not stop right in the middle of a security gate.
• Children must not be allowed to play near the gate or fidget with the gate motor. Children have injured their hands terribly when they got stuck in the motor or along the track where the gate slides to open and close.
• There are various safety devices that increase safety around the automatic gate. An example is the auto-reverse function employs sensors that detect the presence of a vehicle at the gate and automatically reverse back to the open position to prevent impact. Most of these devices use a detection technology that triggers the gate to open.
• Motorists must always wait just a few seconds after entering through the gate to make sure that the gate has closed fully so that no intruders can enter behind them.
