Often times we find ourselves needing to make access into a home in a quick yet non-destructive manner. This may be for well-being checks or public assist type calls. Most non-destructive methods of forcible entry simply require some creativity and a little knowledge of how a variety of different doors and locks are secured. This technique is no different, but involves a door we typically don’t take the time to defeat, the garage door.
In this video we demonstrate how to use the Keyless Garage Door Entry Tool to manipulate the emergency release rope on the automatic garage doors. This release rope is typically installed to allow the homeowner to open the door manually during a loss of power. Once we visualize how it works and know where to find it, it may be a viable option for non-destructive entry.
The tool is inserted into the gap at the top of the garage door and maneuvered into place to grab the emergency release rope. While keeping tension on the release rope, the garage door can simply be manually raised from the outside.
The one potential flaw in this method of forcible entry is if the door leading from the garage into the house is locked. Even if that is the case, and you end up having to use a traditional through the lock technique on it, once the call is over the garage door can be lowered and home can be secured.
With a little practice you can become quite proficient in using this non-destructive “forcible entry” technique.
In our area, we have never seen the tool that is used in the video. Do you have a description of how to fabricate one or link to it?
We will often throw a wedge at the top of the garage door to help get a little more space to insert the tool.
Not farmiliar with this tool. I wonder if it might go by another name? Where can I see a picture or is there a possible site I can view or purchase it from?
It’s made by Fire Hooks Unlimited, and simply called the “Keyless Garage Door Entry Tool”. Available just about anywhere online, usually around 20 bucks.
if your working on a budget any stiff wire will work. It needs to be able to maintain its shape at a reach of about 6 feet.
This is a great tool to have in case of an emergency in which you are locked out of your home or garage. Thanks for sharing.
Thats a sweet VES poster hanging in the garage!!!!
Hello!
Hello!
We use a similar tool often at our department. Most garage doors in our area do not have windows though. It is still possible to make entry with the tool but it is more difficult. We found a way to make these situations much easier. A wedge is placed in the top of the door opening (like Steve mentioned). We carry iPads on our trucks for doing EMS reports. We turn the iPad’s camera on (your phone can work too) and insert it just far enough into the opening for the lens to clear the door. You can see exactly what you are doing on the screen. Just be sure someone is hanging onto the iPad before you release the door so it doesn’t get dropped.