Crime prevention tip of the week

There is an old saying that goes a 10 pound bicycle needs a 40 pound lock, a 20 pound bicycle needs a 30 pound lock, a 30 pound bicycle needs a 20 pound lock and a 40 pound bicycle needs no lock.

As I look around school I have noticed that there are few 40 pound bicycles around campus. Here are a few ways to keep your bike, your bike.

• Always lock your bike with a high quality bike lock. Campus Security Services recommends the ‘D’ shaped lock. Yes they cost more money, but nowhere near as much as replacing your bike.

• Think about where you are locking your bike. Choose a bike rack that is easily seen from many directions and will be illuminated if you have a late class, lab or study group. When you lock your bike, put the lock around the frame and the wheel and the bike rack.

• If possible remove your front tire and include it inside the lock.

• If your seat is on a quick release consider removing it as well.

• If you have an expensive bike consider leaving it at home and buying a less expensive bike to ride to school. There are lots on Kijiji.

• Register your bike with Fanshawe College Security Services for free. On the portal go to Campus Life then Campus Security Services and property registration is on the page. You can also register all your electronics. That way all the information is in security’s secure data bank and if your item does go missing the serial numbers and descriptions are ready to go for both College Security Services and London Police. It may just get your stuff back to you.

If you have questions about this or any other crime prevention concerns please feel free to contact Steve Hartwick with College Community Services either by phone at 519-452-4430 ext. 4929 or e-mail at shartwick@fanshawec.ca