As summer approaches, property owners and facility managers must prepare their parking lots for increased traffic, extreme temperatures, and event-specific safety needs. From crowd control bollards to parking lot maintenance, proactive planning is key for safe and efficient summer parking during festivals, concerts, and other large gatherings.
Why Summer Events Call for Stronger Parking Lot Security
Summer events mean more cars, more pedestrians, and more risk. Without proper preparation, you could face:
-
Traffic congestion
-
Unauthorized access
-
Increased liability
-
Wear and tear on parking infrastructure
Intense summer heat and UV rays can also affect the structural integrity of your parking structures, from gate operators to pavement markings.
Summer Parking Lot Maintenance Checklist
Here’s a maintenance planning guide to help you get ready:
Inspect Access Control Equipment
Before event day, check all access control systems:
-
Entry and exit gates
-
Keypads and card readers
-
Barrier arms
This ensures structural integrity and operational reliability even during high-demand periods.
Test Gate Operators and Loops
Heat can impact gate operator electronics. Conduct regular inspections of:
-
Vehicle detection loops
-
Safety sensors
-
Backup batteries
This helps reduce the risk of accidents caused by gate malfunctions.
Deploy Crowd Control Bollards
Crowd control bollards act as a protective barrier to guide pedestrians and prevent unauthorized vehicle access.
Recommended bollard types for summer events:
-
Fixed for long-term areas
-
Removable for flexible space control
-
Flexible for high-traffic zones
They help organize parking spaces and pedestrian walkways.
Improve Lighting and Surveillance
For events extending past daylight hours:
-
Add high quality, motion-activated lighting
-
Check camera coverage for blind spots
-
Clean lenses for better visibility during summer parking conditions
Refresh Paint and Signage
Before your event:
-
Repaint faded parking spaces, crosswalks, and loading zones
-
Update or add temporary parking permit signage
-
Include directional signs to guide traffic flow and improve parking lot maintenance
Address Water and Heat Concerns
To prevent water buildup during summer storms:
-
Clear drains
-
Fill pavement cracks
-
Ensure proper lot grading
Also, protect equipment from summer heat by providing shade or ventilation where possible.
Event-Specific Considerations for Parking Lot Security
For unique event setups:
-
Use temporary barrier arms for vendor zones
-
Add portable lighting for night events
-
Consider wireless access control for temporary or overflow lots
FAQs
What are crowd control bollards used for in parking lots?
They serve as a protective barrier, guiding both vehicles and pedestrians while preventing unauthorized entry.
Do gate operators work during summer heat?
Yes, but perform regular inspections to avoid heat-related malfunctions.
How can I reduce wear and tear on my parking lot during summer events?
Follow maintenance tips like frequent regular cleaning, inspecting equipment, and refreshing signage to extend the life of your parking garage or lot.