It's that time of year again when porch pirates are busy trying to ruin your holidays. While porch pirates are a year-round problem, thefts increase during the holiday season. The best way to defeat the bad guys is to be proactive before packages are ever delivered. Here are a few helpful tips:
- TRACK: Stay on top of packages through tracking. Once you make a purchase, start tracking the package. Sign up for text or email alerts so you have up-to-date information about when it will be delivered. Once it is delivered, bring it inside. If you're stuck at work, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pick it up for you.
- PLAN: Have your package delivered to where you work or to a P.O. Box. You can also have Amazon packages shipped to an Amazon Hub Counter instead of your home address and pick them up there. OR Purchase a secure mailbox for deliveries. If you decide to go this route, there are several options available at all price levels. Just make sure that you secure the box adequately so you don't come home and find both the mailbox and your packages gone.
- WATCH: Having an exterior camera at the front of your house—Nest, Ring, etc. — provides a deterrence for those looking to swipe things from your porch. Additionally, if someone does steal your stuff, or sideswipes your car parked out front, or vandalizes your property, the footage will be useful to you and TCPD!
- BE ALERT: Stay vigilant. Be on the look out for any suspicious activity in your neighborhood. Call 911 if you notice anything, and the TCPD will be more than happy to check it out.
Don't let these porch pirates ruin your holidays!!