Police in Carlisle are offering more free cycle security marking and crime prevention advice in a bid to protect new bicycles through the use of bicycle marking.

In 2011 almost 400 bicycles were stolen in North Cumbria. They were from sheds, garages outbuildings and from the street.

Officers are determined to reduce this in 2012, so want the community to help protect themselves by increasing security, raising awareness and taking simple steps in order to deter thieves from stealing their bicycle.

Special Inspector Lee Grieves, who is leading the security campaign, said: “Following the success of recent bicycle marking events we are now offering more bicycle marking sessions in other areas of the city so people can have the opportunity to speak with officers about crime prevention and to improve the security of their bicycle.

“You can significantly reduce the risk of having your bike stolen if you secure your property, and take a few simple precautions to make your property less attractive to thieves.

“Anti-tamper cycle marking labels are a very good way of permanently marking bicycles and also increase the chances of your bike being traced and returned if it’s stolen and then recovered.

“Make sure your bicycle is secure whenever you leave it, both at home and when you’re out and about. We also ask that people contact the police if they think they are being offered a stolen bicycle for sale or suspect that someone is using a stolen cycle.

“We are also offering marking sessions at SAFE clubs around the city where young people can come and have their bicycles marked and improve their security.”

SAFE clubs offer a range of activities where young people, aged between 11 and 18, can access sports and physical activity opportunities in a safe supporting environment.

For further details regarding SAFE clubs please contact Tracy Gannon, Sports Development Officer on 01228 817371.

Officers from the Carlisle East Neighbourhood Policing Team will be running free cycle marking sessions, using anti-tamper labels, and offering crime prevention advice at the following times:

Saturday 4th February:

• 10:30 am – 12:30pm & 1:30pm -  3pm -  Carlisle City Centre ( Cumbria Community Mobile Police Station)
• 10:30 am – 12:30pm & 1:30pm -  3pm -  Harraby Community Centre

Tuesday 14th February:

• 7pm to 8:30pm – Belah SAFE Club, St Augustine’s Parish Centre

Thursday 16th February:

• 7pm to 8pm – Harraby SAFE Club, Harraby Community Centre

Friday 17th February:

• 7:30pm to 9pm – Trinity School SAFE Club, Trinity Leisure Centre

Top Tips to keep your cycle safe:

At home

• Keep your bike in a secure garage or shed and keep the door locked and consider registering them at www.immobilise.com* (the world’s largest free register of possessions ownership which enables you to register items such as mobile phones, iPods, cycles and other valuables. In the event of a loss or theft this could help to identify true ownership and hopefully aid in the recovery of your possessions).
• Make sure you bike is out of public view.
• Secure your bike to an immovable object, or consider installing a floor or wall mounted anchor lock for extra security.

Out and about

• Always lock your bicycle, even if you are just leaving it for a couple of minutes.
• Avoid leaving your bike in isolated places. Leave it where a potential thief can be easily seen.
• Invest in a quality lock, two if possible. Two locks of different types will slow thieves down. Hardened steel D-shaped locks are recommended as the minimum standard.
• Lock your bike to an immovable object – a bike rack or ground anchor. Remember that thieves can remove drainpipes and lift bikes off signposts.
• Secure removable parts. Lock both wheels and the frame together. Take smaller parts and accessories with you, for example, lights, pumps and quick-release saddles.

For further help and advice call 101 and ask to speak to your local Crime Prevention Officer.