The Parking Lot Problem

You've just finished a 12-hour shift. You're exhausted. All you want to do is get home. But the parking garage is dark, your car is on level 4, and there's no one else around.

This is when healthcare workers are most vulnerable. After hours of hypervigilance caring for patients, your awareness is depleted. Your reaction time is slower. And parking structures are notoriously isolated.

Before Your Shift

Park strategically. Choose well-lit spots near exits, security cameras, or high-traffic areas. The extra walking time is worth it.

Note your location. Take a photo of where you parked. After 12 hours, you won't remember.

Tell someone. Let a colleague or family member know your general schedule. "I should be home by 8pm. Text me if you don't hear from me by 8:30."

End of Shift Protocol

The 60-Second Pause

Before leaving the building, take 60 seconds to mentally transition from caregiver to self-protector. Check your phone. Have your keys ready. Take a breath.

Walk with Purpose

Shoulders back, head up, eyes scanning. People who walk with confidence are less likely to be targeted. Even if you're exhausted, project alertness.

Use the Buddy System

Many hospitals offer security escorts. Use them. If not available, coordinate with a colleague who parks nearby to walk together.

In the Parking Structure

Keys in hand. Not in your bag, not in your pocket. In your hand, ready.

Scan the area. Before approaching your car, look around. Anyone lingering? Anyone sitting in a nearby vehicle? Trust your gut.

Check your backseat. Before getting in, glance at the backseat and footwell. It takes one second.

Lock immediately. Once inside, lock the doors before doing anything else. Before adjusting the mirror, before checking your phone, before putting on music.

Building the Habit

Make this automatic. After a few weeks, you won't have to think about it — it will just be part of how you end your shift. Keys out, scan, walk, check, lock. A 30-second investment in your safety.