Be Safe When Parking
Robberies, car jackings, kidnapping and assaults in or around parked vehicles are becoming increasingly common. Whether you work late nights or simply park in a mall’s garage,
getting in and out of your vehicle safely can be dangerous. Delco Alarm Systems has a few tips to help you stay safe in doing so.
Pay attention!
Talking, texting or listening to music on your phone while getting in or out of your parked car makes you an easy mark. Stay safe by keeping your eyes and ears open and your keys in hand. If you are in a parking lot or garage, there are a lot of places for an attacker to hide. Be sure to scan your surroundings. When you reach your vehicle, look inside before entering. Lock the doors immediately once inside. Don’t just sit there. Many car jackings occur while the victim is sitting in the car texting on their phone. If you are at work, try to walk to your vehicle with a friend,
co-worker or security guard. If that’s not possible, have someone to check in with once you are safely behind the wheel in your locked vehicle. You can also use a valet service if available.
Know Your Surroundings
Parking facilities can be poorly lit, are often isolated and are generally open to the public. Be mindful where you park. If you are parking at work, don’t always pick the same spot. Pay attention to your surroundings. Park closer to the entrance or exit and try to stay in well-lit and monitored areas. Not all parking facilities are monitored. It’s a good idea to know where all exits, stairs and elevators are located and if security is on location. Simply being aware of these potential dangers is a good first step.
Have A Plan
Don’t talk on your phone, but keep it in hand while walking to your vehicle. Keep your finger on the dialer to 911, the emergency button or a family member or friend who knows you are out late. As with children, you can also create a safety or code word to yell out without an attacker knowing you have dialed anyone or alerted them to distress. This friend will stay on the line with you, while calling authorities and filling them in with your information and location. Again, this is worse case scenario planning but having a plan is immensely helpful if such a situation were to occur.