Reduce your risk of bicycle theft

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, May 13, 2022    10:00am

(Ottawa) – Police typically see an increase in bicycle thefts this time of year, particularly from residential condominium and apartment buildings. Bicycle owners can use these tips to help keep your bike secure. 

• If you reside in a residential building, do not let strangers in. Lawful tenants will have a key or fob for their own use. Be mindful of people on foot or bike following your vehicle in through the garage door. Many thieves will follow in a lawful tenant or pretend to be one. 

• Utilize any secure bicycle storage provided by the building and keep your bicycle locked while inside it. 

• If your building permits it, store your bicycle inside your residential unit. 

• Invest in a good quality lock. We encourage you to speak to your local bicycle dealer for advice on the lock that best suits your needs and quality of your bicycle. 

• Lock up your frame, not just your wheel. 

• Record your bicycle make, model, and serial number and keep it in a safe place along with a photograph of your bike. 

• Register your bicycle on bike registry apps such as 529 Garage so you are able to alert fellow Ottawa-area cyclists if your bike is stolen or lost.  Ottawa Police officers also access this app to check recovered bikes and get them returned to their lawful owners. 

• Report suspicious persons immediately to security or police. Remember it only takes seconds for a thief to steal your bicycle. Try to make note of clothing and physical description of the suspect. 

Anyone with information relating to any break and enters is asked to call the Ottawa Police Service Break and Enter Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 4533. 

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.

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CONTACT:

Media Relations Section                  

Tel: 613-236-1222, ext. 5366