Dear Residents,

We want to bring to your attention a recent increase in pedal cycle thefts within the Flintshire area. Your safety and property security are our top priorities, and we encourage everyone to take precautionary measures to reduce the risk of theft.

If you’ve ever had your bicycle stolen, you’ll know how upsetting it can be. Here are some practical tips which will help keep your bike safe and out of the hands of thieves.

1- Double Lock It!

Consider using two locks this slows thieves down and makes your bike less of a target. Use two quality locks, at least one of which is a D-locks.

2- Lock the Lot

Lock the frame and both wheels to a secure immovable object and secure your bike as close to the stand as possible to give any potential thieves little or no room to manoeuvre.

3- Choose Safe Parking Locations:

Park your bike in well-lit, busy areas which has CCTV coverage whenever possible

4- Take removable parts with you

Take parts that are easy to remove with you, such as wheels, lights, baskets or the saddle. Or use locking skewers or nuts which can increase security by securing the bike components to the frame permanently.

5- Register it

Register your frame number on a national bike registration database. Each bike normally has a serial number, usually found underneath the bike between the pedals or where the back wheel slots in. If your bike is ever stolen and recovered by the police, it can be tracked back to you.

6- Consider insurance

Protect your bike with appropriate insurance coverage to mitigate potential losses

7- Remember Safety begins at home

Take the same care to lock your bike securely at home as you would on the street. Avoid advertising that you have your bike at home, for example, by removing car roof racks and creating ‘privacy zones’ on apps like Strava to avoid disclosing your location.

What to do if your bike is stolen?

ACT FAST

If your bike is stolen contact us as soon as possible. Give us your frame number, cycle database number, a photo and any other details. Make sure you update the status on the cycle database where you registered it. The sooner we know the sooner we can act.

It is worth posting a description and photo of your missing bike on the following forums

Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to keeping our community safe.

Best Regards

James