A stuck gate can certainly be an issue, especially for older people or younger kids. In fact, according to the American Bridge Builders Association, about 80 percent of all residential bridges in the U.S. have some type of mechanical problem with their locks. Still, just because you have an issue with your gate doesn’t mean that you need to totally ignore your bridge. Instead, you may want to take some time to ensure that it is safe to enter and exit your home. Here are a few tips that will help you do that.
Check to Make Sure it’s the Only Way Out – If your gate has fallen down, there’s really only one way to fix it. Have the specialists come by and assess the situation. They will most likely be able to quickly assess whether the only way out is to remove the gate, which could require removing the entire section of track. They will most likely also be able to tell you if you can continue using your access without a problem. In case you aren’t an expert, consider calling a friend or family member to help you out until they arrive.
Get the Right Tools – If you do have to remove the gate from your track, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re up to the task. That means you need the right equipment to get the job done, including a hammer and a drill. Remember that you need to keep the hole you’ve made to prevent anything else from becoming stuck. Take your time and make sure you’ve taken all precautions.
Ladders or Planks Can Get stuck in Traffic – No matter how careful you are, it’s impossible to control the flow of traffic on a busy highway. On residential streets, this can be particularly dangerous as close to curb or side streets there may be multiple cars going by at any given time. To avoid having to walk all the way over, try working on a ladder or plank. Always make sure the ladder/planks are stable before you leave them unattended.
Call For Extra Help – If things become really stuck, call in extra help for an organized repair job. The workers at your local garage store can often remove stuck sections of track with little to no trouble. Have them use specialized equipment like cranes to get the job done much faster. Be sure not to leave the garage door open when they arrive. If you’re not at home when they arrive, let them know where you are. They’ll bring you in quickly and safely.
Consider Working With a Professional – You may not think you’ll need help but accidents can happen. If you’ve just had a car accident or have fallen down and are stuck on a slippery sidewalk, it’s best to call in a professional to get your gate open and unclogged. Ask neighbors or friends for help as well. A little manpower and some common sense goes a long way.