Why do parking lots scare many of us when it comes to violent crime? There certainly are many reasons but lets start with the somewhat unusual fact that similarly to hotel hallways, they often seem to be void of people, especially at night. Even when there are tons of cars parked in lots sometimes there may be just one person walking in the entire lot and that one person may be you or I.
Combined with the fact that many high-rise garage parking lots are designed with security-unfriendly areas such as walls, pillars and elevation changes (where people may be lurking) and we begin to see the reason why our common sense makes us apprehensive. And thats simply what it is--our naturally ingrained survival common sense, alerting us to possible danger.
And let's not forget about what you and I read regularly in the paper, on the Internet or watch on newscasts--women getting assaulted, raped, or killed in PARKING LOTS. Even large open parking lots like the ones attached to shopping malls can offer a thief or violent predator great visibility to watch for security patrols, escape routes and potential victims.
Do not feel foolish if you find yourself nervous in circumstances where common sense dictates apprehension. The key for you is to not become over apprehensive. Calm, awareness of dangerous possibilities is what's needed.
Types of Crime in Parking Lots The most common parking lot crime is vandalism or theft, which of course is bad, but at the end of the day you get to go homein one piece. In regards to violent crime, the most common are:
1. Purse snatching
2. Robbery
3. Carjacking and abductions
Tips To Help You Get Home Safe and Secure When Arriving Park in well-lighted areaswe have always heard we should park in well-lit areas but what does well-lit mean? It means you can see 100 feet at night. So, in other words do not park in an area that offers 20, 30 or 60 feet of vision. For safety, strive for approximately 100 feet.
Go out of your way and spend the extra time to park in well-traveled, busier areas. And the key here is . . . to really take a little extra time.
If youre alone, try to come and go with groups of people who may be walking your way.
Lock your vehicle doors when you leave your car. This is very important and should be done religiously.
Do not walk with your mind totally consumed by thoughts such as what you need to purchase or other tasks you may have to attend to later. Be aware about whats going on around you NOW.
Utilize The Five Second Rule For Safety: Before getting out of your vehicle spend five seconds looking to the left, right, behind, and in front of you, looking for anything suspicious.
Getting Back To Your Vehicle If available, and you feel uncomfortable; ask for a security officer to walk you to your car.
Again, if you're alone, try to come and go with groups of people who may be walking your way.
Get in your car as quickly as possible. Most abductions occur when people are getting into or loading up their vehicles. Try to remember this very important fact. Immediately, lock your doors. This should become second nature, like putting your seat belt on whenever you get into your car.
If available, and you can afford it use valet parking.
Utilize The Five Second Rule.
You can also choose to carry self-defense weapons such as Pepper-Spray or other legal items for your safety and security. If you chose this option, remember to become truly knowledgeable in their use and most importantly make sure you have it close and ready at hand (not in your hand necessarily, but ready at hand) for immediate use if needed.
The cornerstone to personal safety is calm, realistic awareness. In addition to your awareness, stay mindful of the tips mentioned and dont forget to trust your common sense.
