'Lock it or lose it' - that's the latest message from the Safer Knowsley Partnership as they launch their latest campaign to combat bike theft.
The campaign is part of a ‘bikeability cycling proficiency’ campaign with young people in Kirkby. Young people, aged 9-12 years, are being educated to ride with some independence by demonstrating basic riding and road safety skills. The courses are being delivered by qualified instructors from Cycling Solutions.
Young people in Knowsley Primary and Secondary Schools will be learning about safer cycling and how to look after themselves on the roads.
The course involves giving pupils from Years 5, 6, 7 & 8 information about the potential dangers of traffic and aims to further reduce the number of cycle accidents.
On successful completion of the course, youngsters are being given a free cycle lock, together with a ‘lock it or lose it’ leaflet reinforcing essential cycle crime prevention advice.
Councillor Jackie Harris, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Social Inclusion, said “This is a fantastic scheme whereby young people will have a better understanding of the road safety, manoeuvres, signalling and the use of hi-visibility clothing. In addition, they will receive advice on how to keep their bike safe.”
Putting the brakes on bike theft is simple if you follow the advice below:-
- Ride with your mates whenever possible, not alone.
- Avoid taking short cuts and stay away from dark streets and alleyways.
- Use a good bike lock which can loop through the wheels, frame or seats.
- Record and register your bike - log onto www.immobilise.com.
- Never leave your bike unlocked and unattended.
- Keep your bike in a locked garage or shed when not in use.
If you think you are being offered a stolen bike, ring Merseyside Police on 0151 709 6010 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
The Safer Knowsley Partnership includes Merseyside Police, Merseyside Police Authority, Knowsley Council, Knowsley Primary Care Trust, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service and other partners, working with the community to reduce crime and disorder across Knowsley.
Councillor Jackie Harris with the cycle locks as part of the Bikeability Campaign
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