The Maple Valley Police Department says that bicycle theft is on the rise in the city.The department sent multiple tips for bicycle theft prevention in its neighborhood watch newsletter. Those tips include:

• Record the make, model, and serial number of your bicycle and store it in a safe place.

• Save all receipts involving the purchase of your bicycle and equipment.

• Always lock your bicycle. An unlocked bicycle is a much easier target than one that is properly secured.

• Lock your bicycle using a cable and lock as well as a casehardened U-lock.

• Lock your bicycle in a well-lit area on a bicycle rack.

• Never leave your bicycle totally unlocked, even for a minute.

• Report suspicious persons hanging around bicycle racks, notify the police department by calling Dispatch at 206-296-3311

Stolen bicycles should be reported to police immediately. Police say not to fight with an individual who tries to take your bicycle and to “be the best witness that you can” and call the Maple Valley Police Department at 206-296-3311.