A driveway is an essential part of any home, but it can also pose safety risks for children and pets in many scenarios.
National surveys have shown that at least 50 children get backed over by cars in the U.S because the driver couldn't see them. Of these, at least two end up being fatal.
Therefore, with vehicles constantly moving in and out, ensuring a secure environment should be a top priority for any homeowner.
- First, we will give you some essential driveway safety tips to keep your kids and pets safe.
- Then, we will explain why installing a strong metal gate and pairing it with a high-quality automatic gate opener is one of the best ways to enhance driveway safety.
Driveway Safety Risks For Children and Pets
Young kids and pets are the most vulnerable members of any family: they hardly understand the dangers posed by a moving vehicle.
Out on the driveway, a kid or a pet might easily expose themselves to safety risks by:
- Running into the driveway without looking properly
- Straying into a blind spot where they are hidden from view on an approaching vehicle
- Falling and injuring themselves on a steep incline on the driveway
- Getting carried away in their play and ignoring safety warnings.
Driveway Safety Tips for Kids
To keep your kids safe from risks associated with the driveway, you need a combination of proper teaching, supervision, and strategic action. Follow these tips:
i. Supervise at All Times
- Never leave children unattended in the driveway.
- Remember, even a parked car can pose dangers.
iii. Teach Kids About Driveway Risks
- Explain, in simple but firm terms, that driveways are not play areas and that cars may move unexpectedly. The lessons should focus especially on which areas are not open to them.
- Make sure they understand the gravity of the risks posed.
iv. Create a Safe Play Area
- Designate a separate play space away from the driveway.
- You can use fences or barriers to prevent kids from running into traffic.
v. Use Visual Markers
- You can use visual markers to demarcate accessible from non-accessible areas.
- Use chalk lines, cones, or other markers to remind them to stay away from certain areas.
vi. Encourage Walking, Not Running
- Teach your children to walk, not run, in driveways.
- This will enable them to avoid sudden movements that drivers may not anticipate.
v. Check for Kids Before Moving the Car
Always walk around the vehicle before starting it to ensure no children are nearby.
Remember to walk all the way around the vehicle, kids have a knack for getting into the wrong spots.
vi. Always Back Up Slowly and Carefully
When you reverse, do so slowly and carefully, stay alert for any sudden movement.
Use mirrors and backup cameras if available.
Driveway Safety Tips For Pets
The best way to keep your pet from roaming freely in the driveway and running into traffic is to keep them leashed or contained. Here are some other options:
- Use commands and training to keep them from entering driveways unsupervised.
- If your property has a driveway gate, ensure it remains closed to prevent pets from wandering onto the road.
- During summer, asphalt can become extremely hot and burn your pet’s paws, so be mindful of the season.
For Maximum Safety, Use a Metal Driveway Gate
A strong metal driveway gate is an excellent addition to your property, not only because it protects your home and provides security against intruders, but also because it can play a major role in keeping those in the home safe, including pets and kids.
Here’s how a good metal driveway gate helps protect your pets and kids:
i. It Prevents Unsupervised Access
A metal driveway gate keeps children and pets safely within the property. It works because:
- The metal gate blocks direct access to the exterior driveway, and they cannot wander off onto the road.
- With a metal driveway, you still have a backup security system even if personal supervision fails.
ii. Enhances Security
There is always the risk of other children and pets trespassing into your backyard, and in some cases, you might actually be liable for damages caused to them!
- A locked metal gate prevents unwanted visitors and stray animals from entering.
- This is extra protection for the kids who stay in designated safe areas.
iii. Withstands Harsh Weather
So, why a metal gate? Unlike wooden gates that may warp, metal gates resist the elements for years.
- Investing in a metal gate for your driveway will add a measure of security and safety for years on end.
- A good metal driveway gate is a long-term investment for the safety and security of your kids and pets.
Best Metal Gates for Your Driveway.
Benefits of an Automatic Gate Opener
If you want a driveway gate that provides convenience, ease of use, in addition to utmost security, consider pairing your metal gate with an automatic gate opener. In fact, a metal driveway gate is almost incomplete without an automatic gate opener. Here’s why:
i. You Get Hands-Free Operation
An automatic gate opener allows you to open and close the gate remotely, keeping kids and pets safe without stepping outside.
With an automatic gate opener, even an elderly or sick parent can react quickly and save their kids or pet from straying out into dangerous areas.
ii. It Prevents Unauthorized Entry
An automatic gate opener allows only those with a remote, keypad code, or smartphone access to enter the home.
In other words, you can rest easy knowing that only people you can trust have access to your home. No risk of unwanted strangers breaking in.
iii. Closes Automatically
A modern automatic gate opener can be programmed to close automatically after some time, which eliminates any safety concerns associated with forgetting to close the gate
Your kids and keeping kids and pets from accidentally wandering out, even if you fall to the occasional negligence every human is prone to.
iv. Weather-Resistant & Reliable
Most automatic openers work in various weather conditions, ensuring access year-round.
If you get your automatic gate opener from an established brand like Zumi Gate Openers, you can be guaranteed a top quality model with an IP55 weatherproof rating that stands up to rain and dust, offering long-lasting performance.
Zumi's Automatic Gate Openers and Driveway Gates: Safety and Security for Your Home
Zumi is a brand dedicated to the home safety of its customers. Our automatic gate openers and driveway gates stand out for their durability, security, and ease of use.
Here’s why they are a great choice:
- Zumi driveway gates are made of hot-dip galvanized steel with a corrosion-resistant coating. They withstand wear and tear, and provide long-term safety and security.
- Zumi automatic gate openers offer keypad entry, remote access, and smartphone compatibility for seamless operation.
- Zumi’s gate openers include auto-close functions, obstacle detection, and backup battery systems to ensure smooth functionality at all times.
- With various gate designs and opener models, you can find the perfect combination to fit your home’s style and security needs, whether you need solar gate openers, single swing or double swing gate openers.
Keep Your Kids and Pets Safe with Zumi Driveway Gates and Gate Openers
Investing in a strong metal gate and a high-quality automatic gate opener is one of the best ways to enhance driveway safety for your kids and pets.
With Zumi’s reliable and smart gate systems, you can enjoy peace of mind, convenience, and added home security. Ready to upgrade your driveway safety?
Explore Zumi’s collection of automatic gate openers and driveway gates today!
