ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Police are urging residents to be vigilant about securing their bicycles and locking car doors after an increase in local bike thefts and break-ins.
“The majority of these incidents have been occurring in the west side of the city and involve UNLOCKED CARS,” Ann Arbor Police Department wrote on social media. “Remember, thieves are looking for easy opportunities and it only takes seconds for a thief to rummage through an unlocked vehicle.”
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Officials issued the following tips to help community members keep their belongings:
- lock car doors
- remember to take the keys when leaving cars
- don’t leave valuables in a vehicle -- particularly in plain sight
- don’t leave garage doors open or unattended
- consider adding an alarm or GPS locator to vehicles
Police suggested that residents incorporate a “9 p.m. routine” to make sure anything of value is not left in a car, the doors are located, visible valuable items are secured, home windows and doors are locked and exterior lights are turned on.
“We are also experiencing an uptick in bicycle thefts. Remember, always lock your bike whenever you leave it unattended and opt for a solid U-lock for maximum security,” officials write.
Residents can reduce the chance of theft by personalizing their bikes, locking up bikes in well-lit areas, taking expensive accessories after parking, securing “quick-release” seats, avoiding parking outside overnight, and knowing specific information about their own bikes, like serial and model numbers.
Learn more about safety in Ann Arbor here.