WILMINGTON — The holidays are in full swing with Christmas just a few weeks away and that means it is once again the ‘busy season’ for shipping packages and presents — but it is also the busy season for those looking to make off with people’s gifts.
Porch pirates, or thieves who target packages left in mailboxes or on front porches, are a big problem, but there are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself.
According to Wilmington Police Department spokeswoman Jennifer Dandron, “Thefts do increase around the holidays, and oftentimes they are crimes of opportunity. If a criminal sees a package unattended, (s)he will be more likely to steal it. Eliminate the opportunity for the criminal to steal from you by following these tips:
- Track your packages! Always get a tracking number on an order and monitor its delivery timeline. Limit the time your packages sit at your doorstep.
- If you can’t be home when your packages are expected to be delivered (and you should know this because you’ll be tracking your package), ask a trusted neighbor to collect them for you.
- Insure your packages. Theft increases around the holidays, so taking the extra step to insure your packages is not a bad idea.
- Sign for delivery. By requiring a signature for delivery, you’re ensuring someone will be home to collect your packages.
- Install a camera. Home security systems are excellent tools in warding off would-be criminals and identifying criminals if your packages are stolen.
Aside from following these tips, there are other ideas for those who are concerned with package theft. Getting a post office box from the United States Postage Service or another post box from private companies can prevent package theft. Additionally, if you are heading out of town for the holiday’s, check with the post office if you can have your mail held until you return, you can even do it online.
Specific delivery instructions can also be left for delivery drivers to instruct them to leave items at side or back doors instead of at the front.
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