Ordering online may be convenient, but package theft, especially around the holidays, is a growing inconvenience for many. While the Golden Valley Police Department hasn’t seen an increase in these types of crimes, says Police Chief Virgil Green, no one wants to fall victim to the antics of a porch pirate.
Green suggests implementing the following tips so your package makes it off the porch and into your home.
• Ship packages to work instead of your home, if your company allows.
• Ask a neighbor to keep an eye out for deliveries and hold them for you.
• Require a signature so your package won’t be left on the porch.
• When sending a package, ask the recipient about the safest way for them to receive deliveries.
• Check into alternative pickup and delivery options provided by shipping companies, and sign up for alerts to track your package. Visit company websites to explore your options and update delivery preferences. For example, some companies offer “inside access” services where you can authorize delivery drivers to leave packages safely inside your garage.
“We are urging residents to report all package thefts, regardless of value, to help police track crime trends and identify targeted areas,” says Green.