How To Keep Your Packages Safe This Holiday Season

With the holidays just around the corner, it means more people are going to be shopping and ordering gifts online. And while online shopping is way better than standing in line at the mall, packages sitting on your stoop make enticing gifts for thieves.

The easiest way to stop your packages from being stolen is to make sure you're home when they're delivered. Of course, that's not a viable option for most people. But even if you're out at work all day, there are steps you can take to help protect your goods from theft.

• If you're expecting a delivery, as a neighbor to keep an eye out on the front of your house and take in your packages for you.
• If possible, have the delivery dropped off at a side or back door that's not visible from the street. People who steal packages are looking for easy targets.
• If your packages are being delivered by the by the USPS, ask to have them kept at the post office for you to pick up later.
• If you're at work all day, check with your company to see if it's OK if you have your packages delivered to the office. This is especially good if it's an expensive or valuable package you need to sign for.

Thefts of packages do tend to increase in the weeks leading up to the holidays. If you're a victim of theft, no matter how small, call the police. And keep an eye out for any suspicious activity on your block.

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