Campus Security have made us aware that there has been an increase in bicycle thefts on Canterbury campus recently. Most of the bicycles that were taken were left unlocked outside of cycle shelters. We wanted to offer some tips on how to keep your bicycle safe around campus.

1. Always use a lock

Remember to always lock your bicycle up when leaving it, even if only for a few minutes. Use a D or U-lock, rather than a cable lock as these are harder to cut through. Try and choose a lock that Sold Secure (a not-for-profit company administered by the Master Locksmiths Association) has rated gold standard. University of Kent staff and students are offered a 10% discount at The Bike Warehouse in Medway and Cycles UK in Canterbury, so a decent lock just got cheaper!

It is important to lock your bike properly. Lock it through the frame to a bike stand in one of our shelters. When using a U-lock, lock it down around the bottom bracket or seat tube, as it is harder for thieves to get to it. Fill the lock with as much of the bicycle as possible. See the below poster for ideas on the best way to lock your bicycle safely.

2. Use a lockable cycle shelter

When you are leaving your bicycle on campus, we ask that you always secure it in a cycle shelter. There are 66 cycle shelters and racks over both Canterbury and Medway campuses. For extra protection, please use one of our lockable cycle shelter.

See our numbered cycle shelter map to find where your nearest cycle shelter is located.

How to gain access to Canterbury lockable cycle shelters

• For all the Turing cycle shelters, visit the Turing reception with your Kent Once card to be given access.
• For all other lockable cycle shelters come to the Security and Transport Centre with your Kent One card to gain access.

How to gain access to Medway lockable cycle shelters

• For access to the lockable cycle shelters at Medway, email MedwayCardAccess@kent.ac.uk with your name, staff or student number, and number on the back of your Kent One card.

3. Register your bicycle

It is always a good idea to register your bicycle with Immobilise. In the event that your bicycle ever was stolen, having your bicycle registers means that Police are able to identify owners of recovered goods, and it can simplify the process of insurance claims. Immobilise is free to use and takes just minutes to set up, so what are you waiting for- register your bicycle now!

4. Report any thefts

If the worst happens and your bicycle is stolen, it is important to report the theft. You can do this by ringing the Police’s non-emergency number, 101, and making a report. If your bicycle is taken on campus, please also report it to Campus Security on 01227 823300 or come in to the Security and Transport Centre.