The Central Region of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has some helpful tips to keep porch pirates at bay this festive season.
With the busy shopping season here, parcels will be arriving fast and furious to front porches everywhere. Criminals know this as well. Often referred to as “porch pirates,” these thieves steal packages when no one is at home to accept the parcel. Follow these tips to stay safe from porch pirates:
- Request a signature on delivery
- Ship the package to a trusted neighbour or relative who will be home
- Have the packages delivered to your work, if allowed by the employer
- Track your deliveries online so you know when they’re slated to arrive and plan to be home upon delivery
- Opt for in-store or curb-side pickup wherever possible
- Install video cameras and post signage to indicate surveillance is in effect
- Request the package be left out of sight at a rear or side door
If packages are stolen from your home, report the incident to your local police and the shipping company. If you see suspicious activity in your neighbourhood, contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).