Safety Reminder: How to Open Garage Doors and Gates in an Emergency
When emergencies happens, whether it's a wildfire evacuation, earthquake, or unexpected power outage, every second matters. Your garage door or security gate shouldn’t become a barrier. At Consolidated Overhead Door & Gate, we believe that being prepared can make all the difference. That’s why we’re bringing back this critical homeowner safety reminder.
Here are essential tips every homeowner should know.
Know How to Use the Manual Release
Manual release cord
Garage doors and gates are typically powered by electric motors. If the power goes out, you could find yourself stuck unless you know how to use the manual release feature.
Garage Doors: Look for a red rope or handle hanging from the opener track. Pulling this disengages the motor and allows the door to be lifted manually.
Gates: Many have a manual override built into the motor housing. Consult your owner's manual for instructions. Be sure to practice ahead of time.
Vaulted Garages (with no side door access) require a special feature: a vault release that allows manual operation from the outside using a key. If your garage only opens from inside, this addition could save precious minutes in an emergency.
Note: Manually releasing the mechanism should only be done in an emergency or evacuation scenario. Attempting to manually release the mechanism at any other time can damage the system or cause injury.
Pro Tip: Garage Door Vault Release
Keep any manual keys, special tools, or override instructions stored in a known, accessible location, preferably near your emergency kit.
Install and Maintain a Battery Backup
Power outages are common in California, especially during fire season or intense weather. A battery backup system can keep your garage door or gate functioning even without electricity.
Most new openers include backup batteries
Backup kits are available for retrofit on many models
Battery life varies: test and replace according to manufacturer guidelines (usually every 1-2 years)
California law now requires battery backups on most newly installed garage door openers. If yours doesn’t have one, it’s time to consider upgrading.
Knox Locks
Knox locks are designed to be emergency access points for first responders.
Consider a Knox Box for First Responder Access
A Knox Box or emergency lock system can be installed on your gate or exterior wall, giving first responders rapid entry to your property. This is especially critical in gated communities or commercial settings.
Knox Boxes contain keys or override tools in a secure, tamper-proof enclosure
Only authorized emergency personnel have access
Ideal for homes in high-risk wildfire or earthquake zones
Want to know if a Knox system is right for your property? Our team can help evaluate your options.
Test Your System Before You Need It
Don’t wait until an emergency to learn how your system works. Test your manual releases, battery backups, and entry plans at least once a year. This ensures everything functions and gives everyone in the household a chance to practice.
If you’re unsure how to do this, schedule a service visit with us. Our team will walk you through your system and educate you step by step.
Be Ready When It Matters Most
It’s crucial to have a plan in place for opening garage doors and gates in emergency and evacuation scenarios. Knowing these tips and taking the time to plan for these scenarios can make a huge difference in the safety and security of your family or colleagues.
When disaster strikes, your garage door or gate should be part of your exit strategy.
Let us help you prepare:
Add a vault release or battery backup to your current system
Install or service your Knox Box
Schedule a Garage Door Safety Inspection with Consolidated Overhead Door & Gate.
We proudly serve Santa Barbara, Montecito, Goleta, Carpinteria, Hope Ranch, Santa Ynez Valley, Ventura County, and surrounding communities. If you're not sure your current setup meets emergency-readiness standards, let's talk.
Call us at (805) 965-0539 or contact us here online.
Because when the unexpected happens, having peace of mind is priceless.