Reduce Vulnerability by Staying Alert in Parking Facilities

SANTA ANA, Calif., Aug. 28, 2007 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- For violent crimes, parking garages and lots are ranked second after crimes committed on residential property. Specifically, in parking garages, dim lighting combined with several parked vehicles make it easy for criminals to hide.

"Activities such as looking for car keys, talking on a cell phone and juggling packages while walking through a parking facility decrease awareness levels, which increases the potential of an attack," says Steve Jones, executive vice president and COO, Universal Protection Service, which provides innovative fire/life safety programs and electronic security solutions in Arizona, California, Colorado and Washington. (http://www.universalpro.com/)

Although facility layout plays an important role in reducing the violent incidents that can occur, drivers can safeguard themselves by adhering to the recommendations that follow. The tips below mitigate the risk associated with entering and leaving a parking facility.

  -- Identify entrances and exits when entering a parking facility.
  -- If possible, park next to entrances or in open and well-lit areas.
  -- Always roll up windows, close the sunroof and lock the doors before
     leaving your car.
  -- Avoid leaving valuables in your car; don't leave your cell phone
     plugged in to the cigarette lighter and in plain view.
  -- When returning to your vehicle keep your keys in hand and walk with a
     purpose.
  -- Trust your instinct, if you do not feel comfortable ask a security
     officer to escort you to your vehicle.
  -- Report any suspicious activity immediately to security.
  -- Do not linger around your car, prepare to enter the car quickly and
     drive away.
  -- Keep the doors locked and windows up until you have exited the
     facility.