Tips for Parking Lot Security
We can easily forget about personal security as we go about the day-to-day routine of our busy lives in areas and situations where we are comfortable and do not feel threatened. Crime is mobile and not restricted just to areas normally considered dangerous or high risk. The potential exists to become the victim of a crime every time we are not in control of our environment.
On the way to work, as we drop the kids off for school, when dash out for a quick lunch with colleagues or as we stop to pick up the laundry on the way home… all examples of situations and environments where we feel safe and because of our resulting relaxed state of awareness, are at risk of becoming the victim of a crime. The number one defense to becoming the victim of a crime is situational awareness or simply put – awareness of our surroundings. In every case where professional Executive Protection Agents provide bodyguard services to a client or protectee the foremost tool of these highly trained professionals is situational awareness and avoidance of risky situations. This is as true for the US Secret Service protecting the President as it is for every one of Rampart Group’s highly trained Executive Protection Agents serving clients in a variety of high-risk environments.
Following just a few key pointers from our professional Executive Protection Agents will dramatically improve your personal security every time you venture from home.
- Keep your vehicle well maintained and your tank at least half full.
- Vary your arrival and departure time as much as possible.
- Always lock your vehicle when unattended and safeguard keys.
- Time your arrival and departure so others are present in the area.
- Avoid below ground parking when possible.
- Park in secured lots when possible.
- Park in well lit areas that are not secluded.
- Walk to your vehicle with keys in your hand, ready to use.
- Walk with purpose, with your head up and remain alert to your surroundings.
- Never talk on a cell phone while walking.
- Carry your mobile phone in your hand.
- Have 911 programmed on your speed dial.
- If you are forced to walk to or from an unsafe area, ask security to escort you.
- If security is unavailable, ask a colleague to watch you walk to your car.
- Never engage in conversation with strangers even when asked for assistance.
- Perform a quick check of your vehicle exterior and interior before unlocking. Look for any signs of tampering. If something appears suspicious, notify the police – stay away from the vehicle until it is determined to be safe.
- If a van is parked close to your driver side enter from the passenger side.
- Once you enter your vehicle, lock your doors immediately and put the key in the ignition. Keep doors locked at all times.
- Keep your windows up until you are moving. It is best to keep your windows up when traveling in town. If you must lower them, do so only slightly.
- Always be alert and aware of your surroundings while driving.
- Be aware of vehicles in front, behind, and to the sides. Pay attention to the occupants.
- Know the location of police and fire stations, military installations, and hospitals (these are known as “safe havens”). Go to one if you think you are being followed – do not go home. Try to record the description of the vehicle, license number, and occupants.
- In an emergency, drive on flat tires until reaching a well-lighted, well-traveled, safe area.
- When having your vehicle serviced, provide only vehicle keys.
 Kathy LeodlerChief Executive Officer Email:kathy.l@rampartgroup.com Phone: (360) 981-2703 PI License #3555 |
 Paul LeodlerExecutive Vice President Email:paul.l@rampartgroup.com Phone: (360) 981-3397 PI License #4180 |
We at Rampart Group are committed to your security. Call 1-800 421-0614 or contact us today with your security or investigative needs.