9:38am Tuesday 20th February 2007
MOTORBIKE thefts have soared in Halton since New Year.
Cheshire Police said 18 motorbikes and scooters - four more than Warrington - have been stolen in the borough since the start of January.
Phil Buckley, crime reduction advisor for Halton Police, said: "Theft doesn't have to be an inevitable part of owning a motorbike or scooter. A lot of vehicle crime results from criminals seeing opportunities and taking them."
Mr Buckley urged riders to follow a few simple rules: l Get a Thatcham or Sold Secure - an approved electronic immobiliser professionally fitted. Try to get one approved by your insurance company.
l Use security devices and keep keys with you.
l Always put the steering lock on.
l Use parking spaces built for motorbikes that have stands or security loops. Use for secured motorbike or scooter spaces in car parks in police-approved Secure Car Parks scheme.
l Put motorbike or scooter in a garage and make sure it has good locks. If the garage is alarmed - use it. Ground anchors are also a good deterrent.
l Mark bikes with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) (frame number), registration number or other unique identifying number.
For more information visit crimereduction.gov.uk, contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
© Copyright 2001-2010 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.thisischeshire.co.uk