Police are warning Southside Savannah residents to keep an eye on their bicycles following a recent increase in bike thefts in the area.
The Savannah-Chatham police department's Southside Precinct's officers are trying to determine where the bicycles are going after a marked increase in reported theft, said Julian Miller, police spokesman. Thefts have been reported from yards, businesses and apartment complexes, Miller said.
Officers are asking people to lock their bicycles with in well-lit and well-traveled areas and to register their bikes or maintain a record of serial numbers. Police recommend using a strong, tube-style lock securing the frame and wheels to permanent metal objects and, if possible, to store bikes inside.
Owners can register their bicycles with the police department at scmpd.org, where they can also pick up tips on how to store bikes when not in use.
Miller said many bicycles are recovered each year by police, but only a small fraction of them can be matched to owners. Most were not able to provide serial numbers when their bikes were stolen, he said.
For additional information on bicycle security and safety, call Southside Precinct crime prevention officer John Simmons at 912-351-3400.