Winnipeg Police Service is issuing a series of tips to help you avoid having your prized possession stolen, recovering it if it does disappear and busting the creeps who took it.

One of the best things you can do is record your serial number. This can help prove you own the bike when it is recovered. It can usually be found on the bottom of the frame between the pedals. Aways keep serial numbers in a safe place.

Registering your bike with the city is a great way to get it returned if it is found. Registering your bike only costs $6.40. Here is the form to register your bike  Registration form  .

Protecting yourself against bike theft is about being proactive. Park your bike in a secure bike parking facility. Other good choices include monitored parking facilities and locations, and high-visibility racks along retail store-fronts. Here are a list of bike parking in downtown Winnipeg-  Bike Parking  .

Lock your bike every time you park it. Use two locks whenever possible a U-lock and a cable lock., 

If your bike is stolen, report it to your local police ASAP. Then post a photo and details of your bike on social media like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and others. It will dramatically increase the chance of recovery.

Also watch local on-line auctions, craigslist, and Kijiji  and other online marketplaces, and report or flag suspicious listings.