As we head into summer and we are out in the city more on bicycles, it is important to take precautions to prevent bicycle theft. Here are some facts
- 44% of the bicycles recently stolen were unlocked
- 52% of the bicycles recently stolen had the lock cut
- 2 bicycles were taken from open garages
- 7 bicycles were recovered
- The most common area to get a bike stolen is in the downtown village. This is due the greater concentration of bicycles.
- The most common time to get a bicycle stolen is between 5 and 10 p.m.
How to prevent theft
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- Always lock your bicycle. No matter where it is parked.
- When out, park your bike where you can keep an eye on it.
- Double up your security by using two high-quality locks. U-locks tend to be more durable but because of their shape, U-locks limit the amount of bike you can secure, so consider pairing it with a sturdy steel chain.
- Use your locks to keep your wheels from being stolen. First thread the U-lock through to the bike frame, the bike rack or other secure structure, and one wheel. Then, loop the cable lock through both the front and back wheel, as well as through the U-lock.
- Swap quick-release seat and wheel skewers for ones that require keys.
- Remove the removable parts like batteries, etc. Batteries are expensive to replace.
- Make your bike unique. Engrave your bicycle with your California Driver’s License Number.
- Try out a smart lock. A smart lock can alert you when your bike is in motion, and even allow you to track the bike’s location.
- Take note of your bike’s serial number. If your bike is stolen, the serial number tells us which bicycle is yours.
- Report a bicycle stolen to us. Call 760-931-2197 or 9-1-1 for a crime in progress.
Officers will be out in the city looking for and arresting bike thieves. Please help us by taking safety precautions and reporting suspicious activity and crime when you see it.
Police media contact
Jodee Reyes, Community Relations Manager, jodee.reyes@carlsbadca.gov
