The holiday season brings crowded stores, packed parking lots and a rush of drivers competing for spaces. Police and safety experts remind motorists that parking lots can be just as hazardous as highways if drivers aren’t careful.

Slow down. Speed limits in parking lots are low for a reason. With pedestrians carrying bags, children darting between cars and drivers backing out unexpectedly, keeping your speed under 10 mph gives you time to react.

Stay alert. Avoid distractions such as phones or adjusting the radio while navigating tight lanes. Watch for pedestrians, especially near store entrances, and anticipate vehicles reversing from spaces.

Use headlights. Even during the day, turning on headlights improves visibility in shaded or crowded areas and helps other drivers see you.

Park smart. Choose well-lit spaces, even if they’re farther from the entrance. Backing into a space can make it easier to leave safely, but if you pull in forward, check carefully before reversing.

Protect your belongings. Lock your car and keep packages out of sight to deter theft. Police say holiday shopping season often brings an uptick in vehicle break-ins.

Be patient. Tempers can flare when spaces are scarce. Yield to pedestrians, signal your intentions and avoid aggressive maneuvers. A few extra minutes of courtesy can prevent accidents and confrontations.

As holiday shopping ramps up, Newman and Gustine police urge drivers to treat parking lots with the same caution as busy streets. A little patience and awareness can make the season safer for everyone.