Cyclists offered free security markers to help deter thieves (From Crewe Guardian)

Cyclists offered free security markers to help deter thieves

12:00pm Thursday 9th February 2012 in News By Katie Durose

POLICE are offering free security markers for cyclists in Crewe in an effort to clamp down on thefts.

Bike owners can have their property permanently marked with a unique solution during an event outside Sainsbury’s this Saturday.

PCSO Nick Jackson said: "We have had a number of thefts of bicycles over the past month and are urging residents to be vigilant and security conscious.

"It’s not only expensive bikes which are being targeted by thieves, cheap bikes which you might assume won′t be of interest to offenders are being stolen for their scrap value.

"As a prevention measure I am holding a bike marking event on Saturday so cyclists can have their bike permanently marked with a unique identification code for free.

“The details will then be registered on a national database − helping police to trace the owner if the bicycle ever gets stolen.

The event will take place outside Sainsbury′s in Eddleston Road, Crewe, between 2pm and 4pm.

PCSO Jackson added: "We would encourage as many members of the local community as possible to come along on the day and have their bicycles security marked."

Anyone with information about bike theft or suspicious activity should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police are encouraging anyone who owns a bike to remain security conscious to reduce their chances of being targeted by thieves.

• Keep your bicycle locked away and out of sight when not in use - ideally in a shed or garage that is fitted with heavy duty locks.

• If possible, fit security lights around the shed area to act as a deterrent.

• Invest in a good quality bike lock and use it to secure your bike not only when you′re out and about but also while it is in your shed.

• Do not attach the bicycle to something which could easily be moved or cut and try to leave it in a well-lit area where there are a lot of people around.

• Report any suspicious activity in your area to police immediately.

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