Get Your Bike Security Marked For Free

Published on: 16 Dec, 2014
Updated on: 16 Dec, 2014

The first 50 cyclists to turn up will get their bikes security marked for free at an event being organised by Surrey Police in Guildford on Saturday (December 20).

The event, which is being funded by the Office of the Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner, is being held at Evans cycle shop in Woodbridge Meadows, from 10am to 2pm.

Once the bike is marked, it will be registered on Datatag, a site designed to help reduce crime and reunite recovered personal property to its rightful owners.

Organised by West Surrey Community Safety Sergeant Adam Luck, the cycle marking event is the fourth of four to be held in West Surrey, with successful events already held in Woking, Camberley and Waverley.

Sgt Luck said: “Cycle marking is a really simple way of protecting your property and now is as good a time as any to think about proper security. Bikes are marked with special UV ink and tamper evident stickers which include the Datatag telephone number and a unique cycle identification number. This information makes it much easier to reunite bicycles with their rightful owners if they are stolen.”

“Security marking also acts as a deterrent to bike thieves and so prevents them from being stolen in the first place.”

Kevin Hurley, Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, said: “I’m pleased to be able to support more bike security marking in Surrey. Bikes are valuable and attractive targets for thieves but just a few common-sense precautions, such getting a sturdy bike lock and making sure you store them in a secure place, can help protect your property.

“If, despite these measures, your bike is stolen, security marking gives Surrey Police the best chance of getting it back to you. Get yourself down to Evans in Guildford on Saturday and get it done!”

Many bicycle thefts can be prevented by taking basic precautions and cyclists are reminded of a few safety tips by Surrey Police:

• Obtain a good bike lock (D locks or combination locks are best – ask for a recommendation at a bike shop)

• Lock your bike to something secure – a bike rack or lamp post

• Lock up removable parts (for example, wheels) or take them with you (for example, light fittings)

• If you store your bike in a shed or garage, make sure you keep it secure.