Parking Lot Safety

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Tips to Keep You and Your Valuables Safe

Pedestrians can make themselves easy targets in parking lots. Usually, they don’t even realize it. The following tips can help make you safer in parking lots:
 

Walking in the Parking Lot

• Stay alert and walk briskly with your head up and your shoulders back. Criminals look for easy marks, such as people who are slouched over, preoccupied or fumbling with packages.

• Avoid texting or talking on the phone and walking so that you can see where you’re going and who is coming toward you.

• Know your surroundings. Look around the parking lot and your vehicle for suspicious people. If you notice odd behavior, inform security or the police immediately.

• Walk with others when possible.

• Walk in a well-lit area.

• Remove your headphones or earbuds while walking through a parking lot. Be aware of noises and movements.

• Have your keys in your hand and ready to open your vehicle.
   

When You Get to Your Vehicle

• Look into your vehicle’s windows and under the body before entering to ensure no one is waiting for you.

• If someone approaches your vehicle, do not open your door or roll down your window.

• When you get in your vehicle, lock the doors and start the engine immediately.
   

If There is Suspicious Activity in the Parking Lot

• Retreat to a well-populated area and call the police or security.

• Wait in a safe place until the police or security arrive to survey the area and let you know it is safe to go to your vehicle.

• If you are nervous about walking to the parking lot alone, ask security to escort you.

• If you notice someone in or around your vehicle, leave the area quickly and call the police or security. Describe as many details about the individual as you can to the authorities.