Parking Safety and Etiquette

In our “hurry up” world to run errands, attend meetings or classes, and get home, it's easy to disregard your personal safety, other drivers and cars when entering and leaving a parking lot. We offer these suggestions to protect yourself and others parking in our lot.

Park straight in a parking space. In a parking lot where cars are parked in slots, leave room on each side so you can open your doors without hitting the cars beside you. Park in the middle of a marked parking space. Overhanging the stripes will crowd the driver who parks next to you will inevitably lead to door dings in the paint.  

Don’t straddle a line and take up two spaces in a parking lot. Some people with new cars or those who don’t want to risk having their car’s sides banged by adjacent car doors will park in the middle of two spaces. This is not only rude; it also makes it impossible for others to park at all.  Crowded lots need every space.

Make sure your car is pulled into the space far enough, but not too far. If you have a normal-size car, pull your vehicle all the way into the space so the rear of your car is in line with other cars. This makes it easier for other drivers to see past your car when they are backing out of adjacent spaces, and also gives the widest possible driving lane between rows. Pulling in properly is particularly helpful when shoppers pushing loaded carts are sharing the driving lane with moving vehicles.

If you have a small compact or sub-compact vehicle, such as a Mini Cooper or Smart car, do NOT pull all the way into the space.  Park so that the back end of your car is in line with the cars beside you.  This lets drivers know that the space is occupied and does not give the false impression that the parking spot is vacant.

As much as you are in a hurry to find a spot, slow down. Watch for pedestrians and obey all signs in the parking lot.

The Professional Parking Association recommends the following common safety tips for parking:

Before You Park

  • Always Lock Your Doors
  • Roll Up and Lock Your Windows
  • Do Not Leave Valuables In Sight - (phones, pagers, purses, wallets, etc., invite theft)
  • Put valuables and packages in the trunk or out of sight before arriving at the parking facility.
  • If you have the option, choose a parking spot that is well-lit.
  • Do not hide a spare key in or on your car - it can be found.
  • Be aware and report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 326-7096 or for emergencies dial 911.

After You Park

  • Walk with a confident and positive attitude.
  • Don't Walk Alone At Night.

When Returning To Your Vehicle

  • If possible, return to your car with an escort or in a group.
  • Have your door key in hand.
  • When approaching your vehicle look inside before entering to make sure there are no unwanted occupants. After entering, lock all doors.
  • Once inside the car, lock the door and start the engine. Start moving the car as soon as possible after getting situated.
  • If there is any concern for personal safety, for any reason, notify the Sheriff's Office immediately.
  • Avoid desolate areas that are lightly traveled and, when possible, walk to your vehicle with others.
  • Never offer rides to people you do not know.