As the Holidays approach, many people have started to shop online or through various catalogs, having their purchases delivered to their doorstep through many different shipping companies. Due to the higher volume of deliveries, the Simi Valley Police Department has already started to receive reports of package thefts. The Simi Valley Police Department would like to remind everyone that during the months of November and December to use caution when having packages delivered at home.
The Simi Valley Police Department also recommends the following safety tips:
■ Follow the delivery status online so you can try to be available when the package arrives. Some shipping companies and retailers even offer text messages or email to your cell/smart phone to let you know when items have been delivered.
■ Choose a shipping option that requires you to sign for delivery.
■ Arrange to have the package shipped to another location where someone can receive it.
■ On the expected day of arrival, post a note on your door asking the delivery service to leave the package with a trusted neighbor.
■ If you do not receive your shipment on time, check with the company of origin and confirm the delivery. If the item was delivered and you did not receive it, report the theft or loss to the original company, the shipping company, and to the Simi Valley Police Department
■ Many of these crimes occur during broad daylight. Be alert about suspicious behavior in your neighborhood, especially if you see a delivery truck making the rounds and a vehicle following behind or unfamiliar subjects on foot.
■ Your calls can have an impact on crime and criminals. Please continue to partner to prevent crime in Simi Valley. To report any suspicious activity please call the Simi Valley Police Department at (805) 583-6950.
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