Bicycle security and safety
By Snr Sgt Alex O'Toole - Southbank Police Station commander Bicycle makers and retailers in Melbourne and the rest of Victoria have reported a huge surge in sales during the lockdown period as people look for ways to stay fit and commute safely. This is replicated in an increase in trips taken into the city by cyclists. Police in Southbank and the CBD have seen an escalation in bicycle thefts during previous months, particularly from residential streets and community locations. What actions can you as a bicycle owner and rider do to prevent the theft of your bicycle? Always lock your bike and use a good quality lock. Many bike thefts are crimes of opportunity. The best lock to keep your bike safe is a D lock (also known as a U lock). The D lock is a solid, curved metal lock that generally provides higher levels of security and deterrence than cable or chain locks. Lock your bicycle properly. Utilise bicycle parking infrastructure where possible. Check your bicycle can’t be removed or lifted off/over what you’ve locked it to. Park in well-lit public areas with CCTV coverage where possible. Don’t forget to take your lights, trip computer and accessories with you. If you have a high-end bike refrain from storing it in a storage cage in your apartment complex, keep it in your apartment. Make your bicycle identifiable. If your bicycle is lost or stolen, the chances of it being returned are improved if your driver’s licence number is engraved on the frame and you retain a record of the serial number. Having a photograph of your bike assists if posting on social media sites. Locating the owners of bicycles that have been found or seized by police is often difficult. If you are unlucky enough to be the victim of bicycle theft, the more details you can provide to police about your stolen bicycle will improve your chances of being reunited with it. Southbank Police will be holding another bicycle engraving event in the not too distant future. Keep an eye out in Southbank News for dates. Congratulations to Southbank News on 100 editions. I’m glad to be a part of such an informative newspaper which connects Southbank Police to the local community •