Some of you ride your bicycles to class and chain your bikes to the railings that surround the building. Here are steps you can take to deter bicycle theft, and if it does occur, to help in the possible recovery of your bicycle.

Lock your bicycle. If at all possible, lock your bicycle inside a building, or a well lighted area. Always secure your lock through the frame as well as both wheels. Do not merely lock your bicycle to itself, but to something solid. Also, make sure that your lock is adequate for the task. Bike thieves often check out bike racks looking for "bargains," the best bike with the cheapest looking lock.

Register your bicycle with the Lancaster City Police. There is a $1.00 charge to register a bicycle. Bicycles are Registered at the Lancaster City Bureau of Police Station, 39 E. Chestnut Street. If you have questions, please call 717-291-4911 Monday thru Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. If your bicycle is registered, then stolen and recovered, the police will know you are the owner and can return the bike to you.

Record the serial number of your bicycle. If your bicycle is stolen, report the theft to the police and give them the serial number. If the bicycle is recovered it can then be returned to you.

Updated 10/16/07