In the course of any day, most of us park our car in at least one parking lot. You probably don’t give much thought to the act of parking, especially in broad daylight and where there are other people in the vicinity.

According to Greenville REALTOR® Connie Corey, perhaps you should. In 2004, Corey recently notified NCAR that the Greenville-Pitt County area had experienced a rash of women being approached in the parking lots of major retailers and supermarkets. While there were no reports of attacks or injuries, the potential that these women could have been harmed led Deputy Tonya Leggett, of the Pitt County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Unit, to put together the following parking lot safety tips:

Parking: Park in highly visible, well-lit areas and be mindful of suspicious activity. Report any lights out or suspicious persons to store personnel or law enforcement. Make a note of where you parked so you don’t spend unnecessary time walking around a parking lot looking for your vehicle. Always lock your car doors when driving and parked. Never leave your keys in your car, whether you’re at a gas station or in a parcel pickup area. Limit the amount of time you spend idle in the car. Never leave valuables in your car.

Walking to your car: Any person walking alone, male or female, is a potential assault victim. Shop with a friend or family member whenever possible. There’s safety in numbers. Walk with an air of confidence. Assertive body language can help prevent an attack. Look as though you would cause an uproar if bothered. Try not to carry a lot of packages at once, as this makes you an easier target. If you carry a purse, don’t dangle it in such a way that a thief can run by you and grab it. Carry your purse close to your body, preferably in front. When possible wear shoes and clothing that will not hinder an escape. If you wear high heels and are pursued, kick them off and run barefooted. As you walk through the parking lot observe those around you. Notice if there are strangers sitting in parked cars or standing in your pathway. If so, choose an alternate route and avoid them. Stay away from isolated or poorly lit areas. Avoid walking near shrubbery, which can hide attackers. Always be alert and aware. Have your car keys in your hand and be ready to unlock the door without delay. As you approach your car, look under and around it. Before getting in, look in the back seat and on the floor. Don’t place your purse or package on the roof of the car while loading other items.

If you are approached: If someone suspicious approaches your car, honk your car’s horn. It’s one of the loudest and fastest ways to scare off an attacker or let others know that you need help. If a car approaches you while you are walking and you are harassed by the occupants, scream and run in the opposite direction so that the driver will have to turn around to pursue you. If you feel that you are being followed, walk or run quickly to a lighted store or where crowds of people can offer help if needed. Know where to go for help, such as a police station or firehouse. Do not go home. It’s a good idea to keep a police whistle on your key chain. If you feel your personnel safety is being threatened, follow your instincts. Do anything you can to draw attention. Don’t be embarrassed. Scream, yell or blow your whistle!