How to Stay Safe While Walking Through a Parking Garage

Did you know that parking lots and parking garages are ranked #2 for crime, making them second only to residential property when it comes to the places targeted by criminals? Individuals who travel through these areas need to be aware that their personal safety is somewhat compromised due to the dim lighting of these areas, along with the numerous parked vehicles. People who work in office buildings or in other facilities that have parking garages need to take real steps, including purchasing personal security products, in order to limit their own chances of becoming a crime victim.

The layout of the parking garage is one of the most important factors in reducing violent crime; but, since the facility’s layout is beyond our control, we have to focus on what we can do when it comes to improving our personal safety. When possible, individuals who walk through parking garages should remember the following recommendations:

• Make sure you know where the exits and entrances are when entering a parking facility
• When at all possible, park close to entrances; if this is not possible, park in well-lit areas
• Lock all car doors, roll up windows and close the sunroof prior to leaving your car
• Avoid leaving items of value in plain sight in your car—including your cell phone or laptop plugged into the cigarette lighter
• Have your car keys in your hand as you walk to your car, and remember to walk with confidence and purpose
• If you have purchased personal safety products, such as a pepper spray dispenser or a personal alarm, have these items easily accessible as you walk through the garage
• Lock your doors and roll up windows until you have completely existed the parking garage
• Begin driving away immediately upon entering your car, rather than sitting idly in the seat
• Immediately report suspicious activity
• Above all—trust your instinct! If you have a feeling that something or someone is not right, ask a security officer to escort you to your car

For more suggestions about how to stay safe in parking lots or garages, or to purchase personal security items, visit www.promarksafety.com. We have a wide selection of personal alarms, pepper spray and mace dispensers, pen knives and other products that can help you increase your personal safety.

To sign up for Promark Safety’s monthly enewsletter, filled with more product tips, safety information and fun facts, click here.

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