Downtown Baltimore parking garages (Towson: crime, safe, moving)

[BangBangShrimp]

I find downtown Baltimore parking garages to be scary as hell. I'm only subjected to them on the weekends when I go downtown and I am always with someone else, but I just don't like them. They are always dark and isolated and creepy. I'm referring to the ones around the inner harbor. Am I just paranoid or do I have good reason to feel unsafe? I'm not even talking about having my car broken into, but I mean as far as being attacked, raped or killed.

[krakenten]

Try riding the rail and using the Park'nRide.

Keeps you out in the open and saves a lot of money, to boot.

[Summer_G]

I'm creeped out by parking garages in general, not specifically Baltimore. There are basic rules of safety though,

1) try to park as close to the elevator as possible

2) take the elevator and not the stairs. An empty stairwell may not be empty.

3) stay in your car if you feel unsafe around anyone you see

4) keys out, off the phone, pay attention!


You say you're usually with someone, so you really shouldn't have to worry too much as long as you're aware of your surroundings.

[Georgia]

I always use the garage at the Hilton or Sheraton downtown by the Harbor.

[chippeebobippee]

Parking garages are creepy n general and havens for crime even if well lit. The Towson Town Center has had all sorts of crime including murder happen, so lighting doesn't mean safety, especially if you are preoccupied with something else. Were I you, I would use public transport or try to park along Key Hwy across from Rash field, for example. This may limit your time at a place but it is out in the open and gives you some flexibility in case you are being followed. There's also public transport, which has it's own nightmares but is a lot cheaper. Lastly, though, just remember some good rules of thumb when walking anywhere like:

*pay attention to your surroundings w/o being paranoid and looking afraid;

*have your keys out, ready and in a defensive position;

*Check underneath your vehicle as well as the ones nearby as you are approaching;

*when you get in your car, lock it immediately, start the ignition and get moving;

*LISTEN for unusual noises like someone matching your pace when you walk.

*walk confidently with your shoulders back, head up, etc and do not be on the phone, fiddling with tech gadgets, etc.

These are just a few things to keep in mind.

Enjoy your city nights!