Police Scotland would like to take the opportunity to remind those working within the hospitality sector and their guests about the importance of motorcycle security.
Many visitors to the city, travel by motorcycle from within the UK and overseas. Unfortunately, this can see an increase in the theft of motorcycles and associated criminality. This will inevitably have a negative impact on the owner of the motorcycle, businesses and wider community.
To help prevent such incidents, Police Scotland has detailed several effective crime prevention measures which can be undertaken to greatly improve security for your guests travelling by motorcycle and your business. Such measures will be an asset to your business and guests.
Motorcycle bay
Consider creating a dedicated secure motorcycle parking area, ideally positioned at the rear of your property and close to the building. The area should be well lit and, if possible, covered by CCTV cameras.
Ground anchors
These are relatively inexpensive and easily bolted to the ground, providing secure points to which motorcyclists can lock their vehicles.
Bike locks
To save space and reduce load weight, motorcyclists may not always carry chains to secure their bikes. With this in mind, you may wish to consider providing decent locks on site that motorcyclists could use for the duration of their stay with you. These could be provided for a deposit / charge.
Bike cover
A cover can be a time consuming obstacle for thieves and can be attached to other security devices. Again these could be provided for a deposit / charge.
Encourage use of security
Guests should be encouraged to use any secure facilities provided and reminded to use any covers, chains, disc locks, steering locks, trackers or alarms they have. Guests should not leave any items with their bikes e.g. helmets or in their panniers.
Appropriate products that are approved as ‘Sold Secure’ or ‘Secured by Design’ should be considered. For more information visit securedbydesign.com.
Fit a good quality hasp and padlock to the door, fitted with dome headed or non-returnable screws to prevent tampering.
Secure windows and don’t give intruders the opportunity to see inside. Depending on the type of window, you could consider fitting internal window grills, heavy wire mesh or reinforced glass. You could also use curtains or opaque film. If the window opens, a window lock should be fitted.
If you have an intruder alarm, consider extending it to cover sheds, garages and outbuildings. Ensure that there is a visible external sounder box.
You should fit a solid anchor point within this storage area and secure your bike to the anchor point using a good quality lock and chain. When reviewing the security of your shed and garage ask yourself "If I needed to get in because I lost my keys, how easy would it be?".
For further Crime Prevention Information you can visit their 'keep safe' webpage or contact your local Community Officer by calling 101.
If you have any information in relation to stolen motorcycles or wish to report a crime anonymously, please contact Police Scotland by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.
If you see anyone acting suspiciously near to your property or vehicles please contact police immediately with as detailed a description as possible of any person(s) or vehicle(s) involved. Please dial 999 in an emergency and if urgent police assistance is required. Dial 101 for non-emergencies.