Surrey Police issues advice – “lock up your bikes”

Bicycle theft is an ongoing problem in the local area, therefore Surrey Police has published a reminder for residents that they should take care over their bike.

Cyclists should remember the following:

• Always lock your bicycle, even if you are just leaving it for a couple of minutes.
• Lock your bike to an immovable object. Use a proper bike rack/ground anchor or robust street furniture – for example lamp posts or railings (but observe requests not to use certain items of street furniture and be sure not to cause any damage).
• Remember that thieves can remove drainpipes and lift bikes off signposts. If cycle parking provision is inadequate, bring this to the attention of the Council or property owner.
• Lock your bike through the frame.
• Secure removable parts. Lock both wheels and the frame together. Take with you smaller parts and accessories that can be removed without tools, for example lights, pumps, computers, panniers and quick-release saddles, or fit security fasteners on items such as wheels, headsets and seat posts.
• Make the lock (and chain, if used) and bike hard to manoeuvre when parked – to stop thieves smashing the lock open.
• Keep the lock (and/or chain) away from the ground.
• Keep the gap between the bike and the lock small.
• Never leave the lock lying on the pavement - a lock can be sledge hammered easily when it’s resting on the ground.
• Locks can also be picked, so face the lock towards the ground (but not resting on it) so it can’t easily be turned upwards for picking.
• Avoid leaving your bike in isolated or dimly lit places…leave your bike where a potential thief will have to perform in public!
• Park your bike safely and considerately…make use of cycle parking stands where these are provided.
• Park your bike where it will not be a hazard, obstruction or inconvenience to other pedestrians – particularly the visually impaired and other disabled people.
• Allow space for prams and wheelchairs, other cyclists or occupants leaving motor vehicles. Never park in front of a fire exit.
• If yours is a very expensive bike… don’t lock it in the same place on a regular basis – so it won’t be noticed and stolen to order.

An electronic version can be found at www.crimereduction.gov.uk.