This summer I walked from one class to an instructor’s office, passing my bicycle on the way. I admired the cheap yet quick way I complete my daily errands.
However, when I came out from my meeting, I made a horrible discovery: In the 20 minutes it took to visit my instructor and improve my grades, my bicycle had been stolen. This kind of situation cannot be stopped, but now thanks to the security on campus I have a chance to get my bicycle back in the future.
NIC security is now registering bicycles on campus. Services available are engraving, photos and recording serial numbers, which are documented in case of theft. These services are free to students and are available Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from noon to 3 p.m., or by appointment.
The new policy will assist in finding bicycles that have been stolen on campus. According to Pat Murray of the NIC security department, if a bicycle is stolen on campus it will be reported to the Coeur d’Alene Police and if it is dumped anywhere in Coeur d’Alene it can be traced back to the original owner.
In 2010, four bicycles were stolen on campus, the majority of which were taken during the summer. This year, one bicycle was stolen during summer. However, according to President Bell’s July 19, 2011 cabinet notes available on NIC’s website, the rate is “one to two bicycles per month.”
Murray said security finally has the manpower to register bicycles without interfering with their other responsibilities.
“You cannot get rid of an engraving,” said Alexander Whitetail, 19, graphic design, Tuba City, Ariz., whose bicycle was stolen in Coeur d’Alene.
“That’s a real swell idea,” said Rachel Casali, 21, resort recreation management, Craigmont, Idaho. She said she is definitely going to convince her roommate to register her bicycle.
“People need to lock up their bikes and get them registered,” Casali said.
While many support these measures, skeptics remain.
“If there are only four bicycles stolen a year there are better things they [security] could spend their time on,” said Kandice Kelly, head volleyball coach.
Even with these new security precautions, it is still possible to have a bicycle stolen. Murray said he suggests all bicyclists buy the best quality lock they can find.
The security department will also engrave laptops, however they encourage people to do research beforehand to avoid voiding warrantees. This will help owners locate laptops turned into campus security that otherwise would not be returned. If you are planning on selling or pawing it at some point, be cautious.
“It really does lower the value,” said Murray.
For an appointment or more information you can call the security department at (208) 769-3310.
