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18 - Car Parking Safety
Safety in the Parking Lot
ALWAYS use valet parking when available
Ask someone to accompany you while going to the parking lot
Place your valuables out of sight in the car!
Always keep all your doors locked and windows fully shut, whether parked or driving
Don't leave valuables in the car. If you must carry things with you, keep them out of sight locked in the trunk, and then take them with you when you leave the car
Don't park your car on the street overnight. If the hotel or municipality does not have a parking garage or other secure area, select a well-lit area
Do not get out of the car if there are suspicious-looking individuals nearby, drive away
If parking on a street, choose an area that is well lit, busy and ideally overlooked by CCTV - an ideal deterrent for potential attackers
If using public car parks, choose one that is well lit, has security patrols, restricted entry and exit points and always check closing times
Reverse into the parking space and try and park close to the lift/stairway. This allows for an easy exit, should you need it and a lot more people will be passing by
Check that the interior and glove compartment lights work
Keep a can of de-icer and a scraper in the car to prevent spending unnecessary time out of your car, scraping the windows. It also means that no-one can approach your car without you being able to see them through the windscreen
Put children in the car from the near side
If you are concerned about personal safety, lock all doors once inside the vehicle
When returning to your vehicle, remember to check in and around your car before unlocking and entering
Check the back seats before entering the vehicle. A small torch can provide extra visibility
When returning to your vehicle, if you feel being followed, do not stop at your car, move away and return to the hotel/building
Enter and exit your vehicle as quickly as possible!
Beware of parking next to side opening, high vans. If one is parked to your driver side on return, enter your vehicle via the passenger side
Safety in the Parking Lot - A Summary
To enhance car parking safety, always lock your vehicle, park in well-lit and populated areas, and avoid leaving valuables visible. Additionally, be aware of your surroundings, consider using a steering wheel lock, and park in a way that allows for easy exit
Here Are Some More Detailed Safety Tips:
General Safety:
Lock Your Car: Ensure all doors and windows are closed and locked when leaving your vehicle
Park in Well-Lit Areas: Avoid secluded or dark spots, as these can be attractive to criminals
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially when walking to and from your car.
Hide Valuables: Remove or conceal valuables like bags, electronics, and loose change from view
Consider Additional Security: Install a steering wheel lock or car alarm for added protection
Use Pedestrian Walkways: When available, utilize designated walkways and crosswalks for safer movement in parking lots
While Parking:
Park in Designated Spaces:
Avoid parking in fire lanes, loading zones, or areas that obstruct traffic flow
Be Mindful of Other Vehicles:
When backing out, be extra cautious and check for approaching vehicles
Consider the Safest Parking Method:
If possible, opt for pull-through parking or park in a way that allows for easy exit
Park in a Space that Allows for Good Visibility:
If you're parking perpendicular to the road, consider backing in so you can see traffic when pulling out
After Parking:
Keep Keys Handy:
Have your car keys readily available as you approach your vehicle
Check the Back Seat:
Before entering your car, quickly check the back seat to ensure no one is hiding there
Don't Linger:
Once you've entered your car, lock the doors and leave the area promptly
Be Cautious of Strangers:
If someone approaches your vehicle and seems suspicious, drive away or call for help
Some Additional Tips:
Keep Your Car in Good Condition: Ensure your car is well-maintained to prevent breakdowns in potentially unsafe areas
Be Aware of Your Surroundings while Driving in Parking Lots: Be extra careful of pedestrians, especially children, who may not be paying attention
Have a Plan: Know your nearest safe exit route and have a plan in case of an emergency