Why You Need Parking Security

Parking lots and parking garages are often scenes to crime including vehicle theft and vandalism. They’re easy targets due to their relatively low visibility, lack of security, and their tendency to become chaotic. Parking lots of every size and location are potentially at risk for crimes. This includes apartment complexes, shopping centers, airports, train stations, etc. It’s generally a good idea to hire security to monitor parking areas. Having a secure, organized, and well-lit parking area will keep things safe and in order.

A large amount of catalytic converters are being stolen from vehicles and the numbers are only increasing. They contain valuable precious metals such as rhodium, platinum, and palladium, thus making them a prime target for thieves.

Assess the Risks

Owners and property managers should walk through their parking areas to clearly assess security risks and hazards. Document the layout of the parking lot to identify its security strengths and weaknesses. Are there any areas hidden from view? Is the parking lot well-lit? Do you need to install cameras? Are you aware of who comes and goes from your parking lot? Subsequently, these questions help you understand where you’d place security features. These can include cameras, security patrol services, or extra lighting.

Lighting

One of the most affordable and effective options for security is lighting. Increasing visibility and lighting helps drivers and pedestrians see while minimizing hiding places for criminals. Shadows and dark areas increase the likelihood of crimes taking place. Having the right amount of lighting and spacing is important to reduce the amount of shadows on the property. Also, the spacing in lighting plays an important role in minimizing shadowy areas.

Don’t forget to illuminate the side of buildings, walkways, and the dumpster area. Customers and employees alike should feel safe while walking to their cars at night.

Landscaping

Invest in smart landscaping designs that work well with your lighting system. Avoid having large amounts of large trees and dense shrubs as these can provide easy hiding places. Instead, invest in landscaping that deters criminals. Don’t forget, maintenance and care also play an important role in security. Trim bushes and trees to reduce invisible areas. Additionally, clean up loose leaves and trimmings to reduce tripping hazards. These also have a tendency to clog drains which could lead to other problems.

Signage

Installing signage around the parking lot may help change the behavior of would-be criminals. Similar to the way home security signs serve to deter thieves, having signs stating that a security guard is on duty could serve a similar purpose. For example, posting a sign stating that a security guard is on duty would most likely make a thief or criminal think twice. If you’re having issues with drivers speeding through your lot, posting signs indicating to slow down could potentially save lives.

Security Gates

Installing a security gate at the entrance and exit of your parking lot or parking garage could add an extra layer of security to your property. Some properties use access control systems where a badge or card is required for entry. Station a guard at the access point to screen cars as they enter and leave the parking lot. Parking lot gates can issue temporary parking permits to keep track of who comes and goes from the property. Also, you can designate parking spaces outside of the gate for visitors to keep potential threats at bay.

Security Patrol

Hiring a security to patrol your parking lot is a great way to get a handle on security. A security guard can react and respond to threats in-person or provide critical reports when an incident occurs. They’ll typically patrol the entire parking lot area during the designated time of service. Additionally, they can escort staff and employees to and from the building as needed. Many companies advise having a security guard on-site rather than a roving patrol since anything can happen to the property in between visits. The private security company can also accommodate your changing needs or customize a security protocol according to security changes. You can hire a person stationed at the parking lot and another to monitor CCTV.