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Western Springs police investigate nine bike thefts
Updated: October 21, 2012 1:18PM
WESTERN SPRINGS — Police issued an alert Thursday, following nine thefts since April of expensive bikes, both locked and unsecured.
The thefts occurred during the daytime at public bike racks near local retail establishments, schools, the train station, and residential garages.
Police advise the following tips:
When parking your bicycle for long periods of time, always lock your bicycle to something that is permanent and not easy for a thief to take (bicycle racks or a metal fence post).
Secure your bicycle with a U-style lock. U-locks are stronger than other locks.
Make sure you buy a strong steel-alloy lock.
The thicker the padlock and chain the better. Chain links and lock clasps should be at least 3/8 of an inch thick. Look for locks and chains that are case-hardened as this process makes them hard to cut.
Don’t lock your bicycle to another bicycle or a small tree.
If you keep your bicycle in a garage, basement, or on a porch, lock it.
Whenever possible, leave your bicycle in an open area where many people pass by and your bicycle can be seen easily. Thieves usually don’t like audiences.
Leave your bicycle where you can get to it quickly. Thieves like to steal bicycles whose owners are far away.
If anyone needs or has any information regarding these bicycle thefts, please contact the Western Springs Police Department Investigations Division at (708) 246-1800, Ext. 159 or 160.
