Do not leave bikes in isolated areas. At night always park in a busy, well lit area if possible. If you arrive during daylight hours think ahead and try to park near to a street light. This is important both for the security of your bike and your own personal safety when returning to it.
Secure your bike to cycle stands or sturdy street furniture - do not secure the bike anywhere that risks damage to other property, danger or obstruction to the public or where it is indicated bikes must not be secured.
Lock the bike through the frame and wheels.
Remove any accessories and small parts that can't be secured such as lights and pumps and consider replacing quick release mechanisms with standard fittings.
If possible try to ensure that your locks do not make contact with ground as this can make them easier to break.
Always secure your bike with a lock, even if you're only leaving it for a few minutes.
Ensure your bike is security marked and registered with a property register such as www.immobilise.com. This will help the police get your bike back to you if it is recovered after being stolen. Wandsworth Police hold regular bike marking events. To find out when and where you can get your bike security marked in Wandsworth please see the events page on our Safer Wandsworth Facebook site.
