According to Security InfoWatch, "Whether an expansive surface lot or multi-story garage, parking facilities are more likely to be the setting of a crime than any other type of location, outside of a residence."
Your parking garage must have proper protection and precautions in place to avoid risks, such as accidents, theft and violence.
Below, we provide four best practices to secure parking lots and garages to protect customers and employees.
1. Install Video Surveillance Cameras
Video surveillance cameras can help enhance your parking facility’s safety by deterring theft, vandalism and foul play. Have the ability to view footage no matter where you are or multiple facilities at once via smartphone, tablet or laptop.
Before installing video surveillance equipment:
- Look for high-resolution cameras that capture all garage angles, and eliminate blind spots and pixelated images.
- Place cameras high and out of reach, so individuals are not able to damage or tamper with equipment.
- Evaluate cameras that support both night and day visibility.
- Install cameras at entranceways, stairwells and payment stations.
- Back-up and store footage in the cloud in case you need to reference data in the future.
- Do not set up cameras yourself. Work with your security vendor to ensure proper installation for maximum security and functionality.
2. Ensure Proper Lighting
Proper lighting can provide your customers and employees peace of mind, and enhance your lot or garage’s visibility.
Ensure the following places are well lit to avoid accidents or damage:
- Along your building’s walkways.
- Dark areas/corners.
- Near and inside elevators.
- Parking spaces.
- Stairwells/staircases.
You may also want to consider light variations, such as motion triggered or smart lights, to increase visibility while keeping energy costs low. Lighting needs will depend on a variety of factors, such as hours of operation and facility size.
3. Monitor Traffic Flow
Keep tabs on traffic flow to eliminate vehicle accidents. Use video surveillance footage to see when traffic is heavier or congested, and to determine if additional assistance is needed. For example, if your garage is connected to an office building, traffic may be heavier around the time the office opens and closes. During these times, consider hiring someone to direct cars to avoid traffic-pattern confusion. Also, ensure you have clear and easy-to-read signs that point people to the appropriate exits and entryways.
4. Maintain Surroundings
Maintain pavement, railings, stairways and elevators in parking garages to avoid extra liabilities, such as damages to cars or injuries sustained by customers or employees. For surface lots, avoid planting tall trees, shrubs and plants that people can hide behind after dark. Security risks will vary by facility. If you have questions about where protection is needed, work with your security vendor to uncover your vulnerabilities.
