Safe parking
Here are some general tips to keep you safe when parking and returning to your car
- choose an area that is well-lit, busy and ideally monitored by CCTV, as this is an ideal deterrent for potential attackers
- put your children in the car from the pavement side
- try and choose one that is well lit with security patrols, restricted entry and exit points
- always check closing times
- try and park close to the lift or stairs as more people will be passing by
- reverse into the parking space so you can get out quickly if you need to; through the windscreen you'll also be able to see people approaching your car
- avoid parking next to side-opening, high vans; if one is parked next to your driver's door when you come back, get into your car through the passenger door
- check around your car and also check the back seats for intruders before you get in
- get in as quickly as possible especially if it's dark and lock the doors if you don't feel safe
- in winter, keep a can of de-icer and a scraper in your car so you don't have to spend unnecessary time out of your car scraping the windows
