Although there is a big push to shop local, for some items online shopping is necessary. If you are expecting deliveries this holiday season, it is important to follow a few safety tips to protect your deliveries.
“With an increase in deliveries comes a higher risk of package theft,” police report. “Porch piracy is growing, and the issue tends to rise in December when gifts may be left unattended outside for hours at a time. Thieves are opportunistic, especially during the holidays. Unattended packages, particularly in visible locations, can become easy targets.”
One tip police offer is to schedule deliveries when someone will be home or having them sent to a trusted neighbor who is retired or works from home. This can reduce the risk of theft significantly. Delivery services also offer tracking notifications, often with photos of the package to alert homeowners that a package has arrived. Check those notifications often and see if someone can bring the package inside for you if you are not at home.
Most carriers will allow you to have packages held at a local facility, like a post office or delivery hub. For example, you can request United Parcel Service (UPS) to hold your package at the Harrington hub by selecting “hold at UPS location” when selecting shipping. You can find instructions on how to do that here.
“Try to improve visibility around entryways by adding motion-sensor lights, security cameras and video doorbells,” police said. “These can act as deterrents while clear sightlines from the street can discourage suspicious behavior. Even simple steps like keeping porches well-lit or trimming shrubs can make a difference. The goal is to make your home a less appealing target.”
Getting to know your neighbors is also a great way to protect your own property. Neighbors who know each other tend to watch out for each other. If you notice someone walking up on the porch to get a package and that is not how your neighbor usually picks them up, report the suspicious activity.
“If a package was delivered but it is not there when you return home, file a police report and contact the retailer as well as the delivery service. Doing so gives you a better chance of having a new item sent or a credit given,” police explained.
As the area prepares to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s, local officials emphasize that a few protective measures can help ensure holiday gifts arrive safely. Taking precautions now can prevent disappointment later. A little planning goes a long way, according to police.
