Spike strips in and outside of parking lots, often seen in movies and TV shows, have garnered a certain reputation. The first thought that comes to mind frequently comes from a silly action sequence involving a high-speed chase. People consider them to be rather extreme measures of parking lot security. There are plenty of myths surrounding the use of spike strips, both one-way and retractable systems, that need to be debunked. We want to go over some myths and provide a clearer understanding of how spike strips are used in parking lot management and security.
Myth: Spike Strips Are Not Designed to Cause Harm
One common misconception is that spike strips are designed to damage vehicles and cause harm to drivers. Spike strips used in parking lots are specifically designed to be non-lethal and non-damaging. They are constructed with materials that puncture tires but do not penetrate the rim or harm the vehicle’s chassis. The goal is to disable a vehicle temporarily. They aim to prevent unauthorized entry or exit, not to cause lasting harm.
Myth: Spike Strips Are Used Indiscriminately
Some believe that spike strips are used indiscriminately for minor parking violations. This is not the case. Spike strips are typically deployed in situations where a serious breach of security or unauthorized access is a concern. For example, they may be used to prevent a stolen vehicle from exiting a parking lot or to control access to restricted areas. They are meant to be avoidable.
Myth: Spike Strips Are Dangerous for Pedestrians
Another misconception is that spike strips pose a danger to pedestrians in parking lots. In reality, spike strips are placed to affect only vehicles and not pedestrians. They are installed at vehicle entry and exit points where there is no pedestrian traffic. Proper placement and signage are essential to ensure the safety of pedestrians.
Myth: Spike Strips Are Prone to False Alarms
There is a belief that spike strips are easily triggered by innocent drivers. This would lead to false alarms and unnecessary damage. Modern spike strip systems are integrated into advanced security systems. This can include sensors and automated control systems. These systems are calibrated to activate only when specific criteria are met. This can be something like a vehicle moving at a certain speed and in the wrong direction. False alarms are minimized through careful design and calibration.
Myth: Spike Strips Are Permanent Fixtures
There is a misconception that spike strips are permanent fixtures that are always in place. In reality, modern spike strip systems include retractable options. They can be deployed and retracted as needed. There are also one-way strips to keep vehicles from entering or exiting through the wrong area. This flexibility allows property owners to control access selectively. Spike strips are only made active when necessary.
Myth: Spike Strips Are Expensive to Install and Maintain
While there is a belief that spike strip systems are expensive to install and maintain, the costs can vary. It all depends on the specific system and requirements of the parking lot. In some cases, the cost of deploying spike strips may be outweighed by the benefits. A parking lot can save a lot on security costs over time with a spike strip.
Myth: Spike Strips Are Not Effective Against Determined Intruders
Some believe that determined intruders can easily bypass spike strips. While no security measure is foolproof, spike strips serve as effective deterrents. They are designed to disable vehicles, making it difficult for intruders to escape quickly.
Fact: Spike Strips in Parking Lots Are a Great Modern Security Option
Some may argue that spike strips belong to a bygone era of security measures, but with technological advancements, these systems have not only evolved but have also become integral components of contemporary security landscapes. Today’s spike strips boast more precise control, sophisticated automation, and seamless integration with other advanced security protocols. They’ve become an indispensable tool for managing both security and traffic in parking lots.
Spike strips continue to be effective for controlling vehicle access and ensuring the safety of parking areas. It’s crucial to challenge the misconceptions about their obsolescence and recognize their ongoing value. Modern spike strips can be tailored to specific security needs with retractable or one-way options available. They offer customizable deployment that can vary in aggressiveness depending on the situation. This adaptability makes them suitable for a wide range of environments, from private commercial lots to high-security areas requiring stringent access control.
Moreover, the integration of spike strips with digital surveillance systems and automatic license plate readers enhances their effectiveness. Together they provide a holistic security solution that maintains high safety standards. When used correctly and responsibly, spike strips not only deter theft and unauthorized access but also streamline traffic flow. They directly contribute to a safer and more orderly parking experience.
Dismissing spike strips as outdated overlooks their transformation into a modern security asset. Spike strips are significant upgrades for parking lot security. They provide robust and reliable defense mechanisms that adapt well to the demands of today’s security challenges.Book a consultation with a professional spike strip installer to improve your parking lot today.