Securing your Parking Facility
Did you know violent crime is more likely to occur in a parking facility than in any other commercial location? These locations are a hotspot for muggings, car thefts, sexual assault and even murder.
More than 1 in 10 property crimes occur in parking facilities. And 25 percent of sexual assaults take place in parking garages. What can you do to make these areas safer?
Employer Responsibility
Your office may be “up to snuff” when it comes to safety, but your parking lot or garage may fall short.
If you are providing parking for employees and customers, take measures to reduce the likelihood that crimes, car accidents or injuries occur there.
Maintenance Tips
Provide sufficient, consistent lighting. Criminals seek out dark, shadowy places where they can hide and sneak up on someone. Lighting will make it easier to spot a suspicious character, as well as make a would-be criminal feel more exposed.
Trim any foliage that may obstruct vision. This task will not only help prevent fender-benders, but it will remove hiding places for criminals.
Use signage to clearly mark entrances and exits. These signs will help people easily and quickly get in and out. The less time people have to spend in a parking lot, the better. This will also help manage the flow of traffic, and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Security Tips
Provide escorts for your employees, especially those who are leaving at night. Criminals often strike in the evening or early morning hours when there is little light and few people around.
Install a security system with features such as video surveillance, access control and motion sensor lighting that allows employers to practice vigilance. Some employers may consider fencing in their parking lot and restricting entry with access control.
By ensuring only authorized individuals can enter the premises, an access control system reduces the chances that a stranger finds his/her way into your parking facility.
Educate Your Employees
Send out safety reminders on a regular basis and post flyers in employee break areas. Include tips like:
- Be sure to lock your doors and roll up your windows.
- Never leave anything valuable in plain view in your car.
- If you notice anyone or anything suspicious, notify security.
- Stay off your phone while in the parking area – your distracted state is like an open door to a criminal.
- When you return to your vehicle, hold your car keys in your hand to avoid having to look for them.
- Scan the area around your car; be alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t sit in the car longer than needed. Get out and head inside or start the engine and exit quickly.
- Trust your instincts! If you don’t trust something or don’t feel comfortable, turn around and ask a security guard to walk you to your car.
Limit Their Opportunities
Criminals wander through parking facilities looking for an opportunity to rob, vandalize or assault. Don’t give them that opportunity. Do a full assessment of your parking area and identify its vulnerable areas, then take action.
Let us ensure your parking facility is safe and secure! Contact us a 281-506-8466 or visit us online!
Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay
