Whether you’re shopping, going to the doctor’s office, or visiting your local dealership, parking lots are something that all drivers have to use. Observing a few safety guidelines can protect pedestrians, drivers, and other cars. Some precautions become even more important in different seasons.
Here are 5 parking lot safety rules you can follow to make the parking lot safer for not only yourself but everyone else as well.
Stay Alert or Potential Safety Hazards
Be on the lookout for potential safety hazards. These include cracks, fuzzy or missing lot striping, damaged signs, broken glass, and potholes. You’d also have the issue with snow, ice, and puddles in the winter.
Stay close to Lighting
Especially during evening hours park as close as possible to overhead lighting. Good lighting makes it easier to spot problems like uneven pavement, broken or jutting pipes, or sharp corners that stick out. It also discourages crime.
The Shortest Distance
When leaving your vehicle, take the most direct route to the building. It’s best not to wander around the lot. Avoid texting or cell phone use, and try not to reach into your purse or open your wallet while in the parking lot.
Park Away from Obstructions
Do your best to park away from obstructions like shrubs, bushes, trees or retaining wall. All of these are potential hiding places for criminals. Parking in clear well lit spaces serves to not make yourself an easy target.
Keep Your Keys Handy
It may sound a bit extreme, but keeping your keys in your hand as you walk to or from your vehicle. It can help in a couple of ways. First, it makes it easier to lock or unlock your doors. If the worst should happen they can serve as a makeshift weapon in the need arises.
These tips are what I follow when using my vehicle and I hope this helps someone out there be safe. While some of these might seem extreme, it will keep you safe in the long run.
