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Crime Prevention Parking Lot Safety – Pedestrians

Pedestrians can make themselves easy targets in parking lots. Usually, they do not realize it. The following tips will help make your visit a safe experience.

• Stay alert and walk briskly with your head up and your shoulders back. Criminals look for easy marks, such as people who are slouched, preoccupied or fumbling with packages.

• Look around the parking lot and your vehicle for suspicious people. If you notice suspicious behavior, inform Public Safety immediately at (803) 791-2222.

• Walk with others. Walk in a well-lit area. Avoid places where attackers might hide (space between parked cars, overgrown shrubs and dark passageways) and areas where you might be cornered.

• Be aware of noises and movements.

• Avoid wearing visibly expensive jewelry.

• Have your keys in your hands and ready to open your vehicle.

• Look into your vehicle's front and rear seats before entering it.

• Lock your vehicle as soon as you get inside.

• If someone approaches your vehicle inquiring about directions, do not open your door or roll your window down.

• If you are alone at night and need an escort, call Public Safety at (803) 791-2373

Parking Lot Safety – Vehicles

Parking lots are targeted locations for the theft of valuables from a vehicle, as well as theft of the vehicle itself. A little planning may prevent such events from occurring.

• Park near other vehicles or in high pedestrian and vehicle traffic areas. Parking in an isolated area is a welcome mat for criminals.

• Park in a well-lit area.

• Lock your doors and keep windows rolled up, whenever possible.

• Keep packages and valuables out of sight in your vehicle — either under a seat, in a glove box or in the trunk.

• When leaving your vehicle, be certain your windows are rolled completely up and your doors are locked.

• Criminals walk through parking lots looking for easy opportunities, such as vehicles with unlocked doors or packages and valuables in plain sight. Before leaving your vehicle, take a second to double-check that your car is not an easy target.

• Remember, without opportunity, there is no crime!