Your electric scooter provides you with a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. The only problem? It’s very easy to steal, so if you park it in an unprotected place, it’s not uncommon for someone to come along and steal it from you! If this happens, you’ll have to spend another couple hundred or thousand dollars to replace it—that’s why it’s important to take some precautions to keep your precious scooter safe from thieves. In this article, we explain how to protect an electric scooter from theft with four useful tips.
LOCK IT UP
A properly fitted and working anti-theft device is a must when leaving your foldable electric scooter outside. Electric scooters are relatively new and gaining popularity in major cities, making them a target for thieves. Investing in a quality lock is essential to keeping your ride safe and ensuring that you will get it back if someone attempts to take it.
Choose a lock that will resist bolt cutters and hacksaws. Secure a U-lock around your wheel, frame, and a permanent fixture. This can be a bike rack or similar object. The more difficult you make it for a thief to take your e-scooter away from you, they are less likely they’ll attempt to steal it in the first place.
It’s important that you secure your e-scooter only in areas where it is safe and legal to do so. For example, if there is a sign prohibiting bicycles and e-scooters, don’t lock your bike there. It could be taken away or impounded by local authorities who will impose a fine for doing so.
Check local laws and regulations about where you can and cannot lock your e-scooter. You may find that there are certain places or times that you can’t leave your e-scooter unattended, such as at a restaurant or shopping mall.
PUT IT UNDER CCTV SURVEILLANCE
One of your best bets for preventing e-scooter theft is putting your foldable electric scooter under some sort of video surveillance. It’s a good idea to get a pair of security cameras and set them up so they can watch over both your front door and your warehouse entrance. If anyone tries to tamper with your e-scooters, you’ll have solid evidence on tape. This is a great way to deter would-be thieves who fear being caught in the act.
As a backup, you should put your personal phone number and contact information on a decal and put it on both sides of your e-scooters. That way, if someone notices something wrong with your e-scooters, they can call you to report it.
And of course, you should always lock your e-scooters with a heavy-duty bike lock. Don’t forget to secure them inside your warehouse during non-business hours, too. Better safe than sorry!
Sometimes, unfortunately, e-scooters are stolen despite all these precautions. If that happens to you, call your local police and report it as soon as possible. When they recover your stolen e-scooters, they’ll be able to use your security camera footage to help track down whoever stole them.
TAKE IT INSIDE
If you live in a high-theft area, like major cities, it’s especially important to store your e-scooter in a locked shed or garage at night and when you’re not using it. This is also where you should keep your charger; if it gets stolen too, you won’t be able to ride!
If possible, take your scooter inside your home or garage. Scooters are small enough that they can fit into a closet or take up a little space in a garage. This will prevent it from being stolen and keep it safe from weather damage. It’s also more convenient than bringing it in and out of a shed every time you use it! Just make sure not to leave any bikes unlocked and accessible if you do store it indoors; thieves know exactly where bikes live and can easily snatch one when you’re not looking!
If you plan on storing your e-scooter in a garage, consider keeping it near where you park your car. This way, when it’s not being used, someone can just pull their car into that area and have access to both vehicles.
If you live in a condo or apartment building, keep your e-scooter inside your unit. Some apartment complexes even have designated areas where you can store your e-scooter, though it’s not ideal to rely on these spaces since they aren’t always available.
WATCH WHERE YOU PARK IT
Leaving your e-scooter outside for long periods of time increases your chances of having it stolen. Most criminals steal scooters in broad daylight—often overnight—when they think no one is around. When you’re not using your e-scooter, park it in a safe area like a garage or storage room. By doing so, you’ll avoid getting your scooter stolen—the number one cause of lost adult e-scooters. If you do end up losing your e-scooter, report it as soon as possible.
Additionally, make sure your e-scooter is locked at all times. When you park your adult e-scooter, be mindful of how it’s positioned relative to other parked vehicles. You don’t want any blind spots where a potential thief could approach and cut your cable lock without you noticing.
Don’t leave your e-scooter unattended for any longer than necessary. If you have a long walk from your parking spot, just take it with you. It isn’t worth taking unnecessary risks—and making yourself vulnerable to theft—just because your destination is too far away or there are no bike racks nearby.
If you need to park your adult e-scooter overnight, park it in a well-lit area. E-scooters are small and easy to hide, so you don’t want anyone targeting your e-scooter for quick cash. Park it in a place that can be observed by passersby or security cameras. And remember just because you’re inside doesn’t mean thieves won’t find an opportunity to swipe your e-scooter if they know you have one on site—and particularly if there aren’t many other e-scooters around.
If possible, store your e-scooter with a friend or family member when you aren’t using it. Or at least let someone else know where you keep it parked so they can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity—like people lingering nearby or loitering in front of residential units where many e-scooters tend to get stolen.
