CHARLOTTE COUTNY, Fla.- The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office reports bicycle thefts are on the rise around the county and are offering tips to help prevent these thefts. All of the CCSO District Offices are available to register bicycles with theSheriff’s Bicycle Anti-Theft (BAT) programsimply by stopping by with their bicycles for thisfreeservice.

Below is a list of how to prevent bicycle theft:

ALWAYS lock your bicycle. Never leave your bike unlocked.

Lock your bicycle in a visible and well-lit area.

Lock your bike to something that is permanent. Be careful that your bike cannot be lifted over the top of the object to which it is locked.

Lock it in a location where there are other bikes.

If you keep your bike in a garage, lanai or carport, lock it.

Do notleave a bike on the front lawn overnight.

Park in open areas where many people pass by and your bicycle can be easily seen.

Try to keep your bike where you can get to it fast.

Take all detachable items like bags and quick release parts with you.

Take a picture of yourself with your unlocked bike and put in a safe place with the serial number.

Discourage thieves by engraving a name for your bike in an obvious place on your bike frame.

If you locate your bike, DO NOT attempt to recover it yourself. Call the Sheriff’s Office.

Register your bicycle with the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office at any of our District locations. This is a FREE service which will assist if your bike is stolen and recovered.

If your bike is stolen call the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office as soon as possible at 941-639-2101.