Bike security advice on offer at special event

The University has teamed up with Thames Valley Police to provide staff and students with bike security advice at a special Dr Bike session this week.

Cyclists can get a free bike safety check, get their bike security marked and speak to police officers and the University’s Campus Security and Student Halls teams about keeping their bikes safe, as well as getting access to discounted D-locks or second-hand bicycles.

The event takes place in the Palmer Quad from 12:00-14:00 on Wednesday 22 February. It is one of the regular Dr Bike sessions held regularly throughout the year by the University’s Sustainability Services team.

Thefts increase

The event is being held in response to a rise in bike thefts on campus and across the South East in recent months, with thieves often carrying tools to cut through metal locks.

Colleagues from the University’s Security team and wider Estates team have been working with Thames Valley Police to combat the thieves. This includes increasing police patrols of campus, speeding up Security’s response times and reviewing bike storage facilities.

They are also reissuing the following advice to staff and students, including urging anyone who sees a thief not to approach them.

1. Be vigilant and be aware of suspicious behaviour on campus.
2. Contact Security as quickly as possible on Ext. 6300 or 0118 378 6300 if you see a theft or suspicious behaviour. We would recommend adding this number to your mobile contacts so it is available when you need it.
3. Do not approach anyone you believe may be a thief.
4. Use a good-quality D lock, or more than one if you can, to secure the frame and wheels to a stand. Consider using the key access bike sheds where available. Good quality locks should continue to be used in these facilities. Removing your bike’s seat can also help to deter thieves.
5. Security mark your bike or register it for free. See the BikeRegister or Immobilise websites for information, and look out for bike marking sessions on campus.