Introduction to Package Safety
With the busiest online shopping season in full swing, police in suburban Chicago provided a list of tips on how to keep your packages safe from porch pirates.
"Porch pirates don’t need a map, they just follow the delivery truck," Palos Park Chief of Police Joe Miller said in a statement.
Safeguarding Your Holiday Goods
To safeguard your holiday goods from thieves, Palos Park Police suggest residents take the following precautions:
Precautionary Measures
- Have packages delivered to your work, a neighbor or a family member’s home instead of your own if you will be gone most of the day.
- See if you can require a signature for the delivery if the above is not an option.
- Ask neighbors to watch your porch for packages.
- Place a security camera in a clearly visible location.
- Keep porches well-lit and clear of clutter.
- Call 911 if you see anything suspicious.
- Track packages and bring them in quickly.
Additional Warnings
Police also warned to be mindful of fake "delivery problem" text messages.
A recent theft in the Chicago suburbs was captured on a Ring doorbell camera, showing the moment a thief stole multiple packages from the porch of a residence in Clarendon Hills just as the homeowners were preparing to pull into their driveway.
Conclusion
By following these tips and being mindful of potential scams, residents can help protect their packages from porch pirates and ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season.
FAQs
- Q: What should I do if I won’t be home to receive my package?
A: Consider having your package delivered to your work, a neighbor, or a family member’s home. - Q: How can I deter porch pirates from targeting my home?
A: Keep your porch well-lit, clear of clutter, and consider installing a security camera. - Q: What should I do if I receive a suspicious text message about a delivery problem?
A: Do not respond to the message and contact the delivery company directly to verify the issue.
