Security
Bike crime on campus
Bicycle vandalism and theft make up the majority of crime on campus. Security have informed us that bike crime overnight tends to be from drunk students (or general public), however during the day it is often by organised individuals, pairs or groups.
To avoid being a victim of bike crime, follow our tips as recommended by Estates security:
- Use good strong locks to secure your bike, preferably a D-lock as they cannot be cut with bolt cutters (see list further on)
- Don't leave your bike unlocked even if just popping in to a building
- Make your lock less accessible by facing the lock to a wall or underneath the bike if possible
- Park your bike in a rack within the sight of a security camera
- Ensure that removable or quick release parts are taken off, or
- Ensure that removable parts (wheels) are secured to the bike or stand as well as the bike frame
To increase the chances of getting your bike back if it is stolen
- Keep a record of the frame number of the bike
- Take a photo of the bike
You Tube video demonstrating bike securing techniques
Campus security advice
BUG liaison to security is Richard Young, Security liaison to BUG is John Knowles. Our aim is to reduce and deter bike crime from campus. To do this we will provide monthly updates on bicycle crime on campus and alert via the mailbase or website accordingly
Current problems identified by security are:
- Quick release parts on bikes being taken (including a wheel from one bike and an unsecured frame from another!)
- Expensive bikes being targetted (thieves riding up on their bike, locking it, stealing another then returning for their own bike later)
- Thieves dressing like students, but carrying a rucksack containing tools for theft (classed as intent, so please report any unusual sightings)
- CCTV acts more as a reactive method rather than a preventative measure
- Current crime hotspot is the Daysh racks (under the Art building)
- Roughly 20 bike crimes per quarter, but >9 arrests were made in the last 4 months
- There are more bike crimes and vandalism in the first term
- Northumbria Police recognise bicycle crime as the major crime problem on campus (we have a University Police Officer)
To report a bicycle crime, contact Security, telephone: 222 6817, or go to the Security Centre in the Armstrong Building. Alternatively contact by e-mail to Security Supervisor
Further security advice and links
As well as securing your bike safely there are other steps you can take to prevent being a victim of crime. Some of the steps include:
- Insuring yourself and your bicycle. Most house insurance policies can be extended to cover bikes, especially more expensive ones. However they may have clauses that require you use D-locks as well
- Document and mark your bike: Keep a record of the frame number of the bike; take a photo of the bike; use an ultraviolet marker and note your postcode and house number on the frame of the bike (BUG can do this at bike events too!); have your bike smart watered by Northumbria police
- Try bike buddying (if feasible); parking at the same spot next to a friend's bike (or locking them together) so you can keep an eye on them if passing
- Apply for a bike locker through Estates Lynne Edis about bike lockers
- Avoid securing your bike to handrails; they may be less secure, provide chances for opportune crime and may not be in areas that security are monitoring (or may block access or fire escape routes)
To get further information about bicycle security, insurance or types of locks, see the links below:
Locks
http://www.whycycle.co.uk/
Excellent website about cycling with an excellent description of the types of locks available and the Sold Secure accreditation scheme for locks. Loads of other information and links about cycling on this site too.
http://www.cyclexpress.co.uk/
Website demonstrating a wide range of D (aka U) locks. Check if your insurance (house or bike specific) specifies a certain make or type. Also a comprehensive website for bike accessories and clothing
http://www.cycleguard.co.uk
Website offering bicycle insurance packages, including family and racing options.
http://www.lcc.org.uk/
London Cycling Campaign website; loads of information including an explanation of types of insurance and handy tips for security and safety
http://www.c-p-p.co.uk/
Crime Prevention Products website advertising bicycle alarms
