SECURITY FEARS

More than one in three motorists report feeling unsafe in a car park, over half of female drivers have felt unsafe in a car park. Motorists encouraged to think about car park security as the clocks go back.

As the darker evenings approach, drivers are being given a host of tips on how to keep themselves and their vehicles safe after a survey revealed that more than one in three  motorists have felt unsafe while in a car park.

The survey, carried out by parking marketplace YourParkingSpace.co.uk, found that 38 per cent of respondents claimed that they had felt unsafe in a car park, with the figure increasing to over half (51 per cent) of female drivers reporting the concern. Of those surveyed, almost one in four (23 per cent) said that safety and security was the most important factor when choosing a place to park.

According to figures from the AA, around 20 per cent of car crime occurs in car parks and YourParkingSpace.co.uk is offering a series of tips to help motorists stay safe. “This time of year, when the clocks go back, is unfortunately a time that tends to see an increase in vehicle crime and burglary as criminals take advantage of the darker nights. It’s natural for drivers to feel nervous when alone in a car park but staying aware and following a few safety tips can really help you stay safe,” says Harrison Woods, managing director at YourParkingSpace.co.uk

YourParkingSpace.co.uk recommends some simple measures to minimise risk and enhance safety when parking.

•   Park somewhere that is well lit – Increased lighting levels in dark areas can reduce the fear of crime and opportunities to commit offences. If you’re in a car park try to park under lights. If you’re parking on a private driveway try to find one that is overlooked and on a well-lit street.
•   Opt for a space with traffic and surveillance – If parking in a car park, make sure it’s monitored by CCTV or security personnel. For peace of mind, look for a car park displaying the Safer Parking Scheme’s ‘Park Mark’ sign which shows that the operator has been assessed to ensure that they’re properly managed and maintained. You can find a full list of accredited car parks at www.parkmark.co.uk
•  Find a space in advance – Aim to park somewhere that you’re familiar with. If you have to park in an area that you don’t know, check out parking options beforehand to save driving around looking for a space in the dark. YourParkingSpace.co.uk allows you to find and view parking spaces via Google Street View and book them in advance.
• Don’t leave anything on display – Lock all items out of sight in the boot, even an old coat may be enough to tempt an opportunist thief. Take all valuables with you, as well as any personal correspondence.
• Familiarise yourself – If parking in a car park, familiarise yourself with the car park layout and exits, pedestrian and vehicle routes and closing times.
• Stay alert – Be aware of what is going on around you, and don’t get caught up with listening to music, checking emails or texting when walking to and from your vehicle. Keep your keys to hand – Have your car keys to hand so that you’re not stood searching for them by your car when you return.
•  Never leave your keys in the ignition – You may be tempted do this to warm your car up or de-ice it but never leave your car keys in the ignition, not even for a second.
•  Report concerns – If you have any safety concerns or return to find that your car has been broken into, go immediately to security for help and inform the car park management. If you’re renting a private space, inform the space owner immediately and contact the police.

“Not all car parks are dark and sinister places, in fact far from it, but taking a few precautionary steps can significantly reduce the risk of parking related crime as well as reduce the worry of being a victim in the first place.” Woods added.

For more information on how you can find and book a car parking space in advance visit www.yourparkingspace.co.uk