Safety First
Many crimes are committed against people in parking lots. In most situations, people park their cars, walk away from them not knowing where the vehicle is located in relation to the building. This is bad news, because when the person comes out the store, he or she will walk around, looking for their vehicle, unbeknownst to them that someone is lurking in the shadows, ready to attack at any moment.
In order to protect yourself from any harm you need to know the proper way of parking the car, walking back to it, and what to do if approached. Knowing the right procedures will help keep you from becoming a victim.
Knowing How to Park the Car
Don't just drive into a parking lot, look for any available spot and stop your vehicle. What if that spot is in a dark area. The number one reason people are attacked is because they are in a dark place. Do your best to find a well-lighted area and park your vehicle there. If you are new to the area or the store, drive around before parking so you will know where the entrance, security, and exits are located.
When you get out of your vehicle, look around for any suspicious activity, including many people hovering together, dressed like punk kids. Look at your surroundings and take note of where you parked your vehicle. Is it near a post with a number of letter on it? If so, take note of it. Look for other types of landmarks. Are you directly under a lightpost? Or are you close to a cart stand? What about the lane you parked in? Where is it in relation to the angle of the store? It is very important to note where you are parked so you don't spend time walking around looking for it later.
What to Do When Walking to Your Car
Whatever you do try not to walk alone. You are opening yourself to assault. Always walk with someone, a friend or family member. When you do walk to your vehicle, do so with a purpose. don't look or act scared. Be assertive in your stride. Nine times out of ten you will be left alone. Don't carry a purse in such a way that a thief can easily grab it. Carry it in the front of you.
If possible, where clothes that don't interfere in any sudden moment. Where sneakers instead of high heels. Don't worry about being a fashion statement here. Be more concerned with keeping safe.
As you proceed to your vehicle, look around and have your friend or family member look around at all times. If you see any suspicious activity, or someone sitting in his or her car alone along your route, change direction and go around it. Always, always, be alert and awake to anything. Before you get to your car, make sure you have the car keys out and ready to use. Look under and around your car to make sure of no surprises. When you open your car door, look quickly in the back seat and floor. Once you are in the car, lock all doors.
What to Do If Approached
The scariest thought is to have someone you don't know run up to your car. If you see anyone approaching your car, and you don't know the person, honk your horn several times. This will scare off the intruder fast.
If you are walking to your car and someone drives close to you and starts harassing you in some way, scream and run the other way. It would be best to run back to the store and seek security. Security will escort you to your car.
If you are followed from the parking lot, do not go home. Instead, go to either the security building (usually located at the entrance to the parking lot or somewhere thereabouts), or drive to the nearest police station. What you can also do is get on your cell phone, call 911, and tell the operator you are being pursued. Give details about the car following you, including the license plate number, and your approximate location.
Do whatever it takes to keep yourself safe. Take all necessary precautions. This is a dangerous world we live in. Therefore, we have to be vigilant to keep ourselves alive.
Harry Husted is a freelance writer and author. His writing projects include ghostwriting, copywriting, web site content, and DTP. His credits include articles for Internet Day, Internet World, Advertising Today, Advertising Age, L-Advertising, and a host of others. Harry is also an author of three books, Learn How to Repair Computers: Get Certified in 15 Weeks, How to Write Your Way to Millions, and How to Find and Start a Legitimate Home Business. He can be reached by sending email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit his site at www.creatingwords.com
This article is copyright (c) 2002 by Harry Husted, and may be reprinted in it's entirety as long as this byline and copyright statement is included.