(Photo credit: Luis F Franco)
Parking your car might seem simple enough, but there is a lot to think about when you’re choosing the right spot to leave one of your most valuable possessions.
Leaving your car in a dangerous or secluded spot could mean your vehicle becomes an easy target for criminals so it’s important to think twice before you park. While there have been advances with security camera systems that help deter these criminals, you don’t want to give them an easy opportunity to target your car.
Taking precautions to keep your car safe will mean you reduce the risk of it being stolen or broken into. Here are some simple tips and advice on how to find a safe place for your car.
At Home
You might not give parking your car in your driveway a second thought, but if it’s not in a locked garage you risk leaving it open to vandals and thieves. Try where possible to park your car in a garage where it’s hard to access because this will keep it out of sight and out of mind for most criminals.
However if you don’t have access to a secure area, try to park your car as close to your house or apartment as possible. Keeping it close to your home may act as a deterrent for criminals who won’t want to risk being disturbed while they’re trying to break in.
You’ll also need to think about getting car insurance to make sure your car is always protected, particularly if it is regularly left unattended in open areas.
At Night
If you’re visiting a friend’s house or going out to dinner, it’s important to think about where you leave your car if you’ll be returning to it at night. Not only do you need to make sure it is appropriate for the sake of your personal safety, but also to ensure it’s not in an area where criminals can easily access it.
Try to find a well-lit, busy area to leave your car. If possible try to park out the front of a busy restaurant or shop because then you’ll have confidence someone is always keeping an eye on it.
In Car Parks
Car parks can be regular hangouts for criminals and thieves so choose your spot carefully. You’ll want to make sure you try to find a spot as close to the entrance as possible so it’s not easy for them to break in without being disturbed.
If you know you’ll be coming back to a car park at night, try to make sure you park your car under a well lit space and always make sure the walk to your car is as short as possible to reduce the risk of someone approaching you when you’re alone at your car. Also have your keys out ready so you can drive away quickly.
The choices you make when you park your car are incredibly important so take the time to carefully choose a spot that is safe for both you and your vehicle.
