ALPHABET SIGNS News

By DANIEL KEANE, Staff Writer

Parking lots, especially those in high-traffic, multi-purpose areas or on hospital or school properties, can be extremely dangerous to drivers and pedestrians alike. Entering and exiting traffic can cause confusion and fender benders or worse, especially if the directional routes are not clearly marked. Pavement marking stencils are ideal for placing permanent directional arrows or explanatory words on the traffic routes. Since each driver’s eyes will be focused on the road immediately in front of the vehicle, painted pavement directions are clearly visible reminders of correct traffic flow. They also make pedestrians aware of moving traffic patterns within the parking lot.

Pavement stencils are a quick and easy way to organize not only the traffic flow entering and leaving the lot, but they are also clear markers for areas in which parking is not allowed. Graphic stencils can mark handicap parking areas. Number stencils can clarify which spots are reserved for specific drivers. They can also be identifiers that coincide with property housing or rentals. When everyone knows exactly where parking is permissible, there will be less strife and frustration in the parking lot.

Pavement marking stencils are perfect for school lots. They can clearly mark areas reserved for bus stops, visitor spaces, staff, student drivers, and special services. Number stencils can also delineate play areas for specific age groups and abilities. Reminder stencils such as 'Buckle Up' can be placed at school exits to remind students of the importance of attaching their seat belts before they leave the parking lot. With clearly marked crosswalks for students and other pedestrians on the school grounds, the safety factor will be greatly increased. Once again, pavement marking stencils can create directional arrows that clearly define acceptable traffic flow when navigating through the lot.

Fire lanes are also a serious consideration when it comes to keeping space available near public buildings. In the event of a fire, there is usually little time to move vehicles to accommodate fire and rescue trucks. By using pavement marking stencils to keep these areas free of parked vehicles, the building is much better prepared for emergency service if the time should arise.

Employees hate coming to work only to find no place to park. By using number stencils or some other form of designated pavement marking, there will be fewer problems between staffing and customers or clients. In fact, special parking spaces closer to the building can be used as incentives for the Employee of the Week or the Employee of the Month. Most organizations designate a few spaces near the building for upper management. Because they often operate on tight schedules, this courtesy is much appreciated.

Short of hiring a parking lot management team, simple pavement marking stencils can direct traffic, organize parking, identify no parking zones, offer pedestrian walkways and reserve parking spaces for the handicapped, visitors or specific employees. Why spend a lot of money to correct safety and service issues outside the building, when painting directions on the pavement can solve so many problems before they happen? Consider specially designed pavement stencils for your parking lot issues.