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Package Theft Prevention Tips

If you have ever ordered items online chances are those items were delivered straight to your home. Most deliveries DO NOT require a signature and are generally left at your front door even if no one is home to accept them. These packages, which quickly catch the eye of potential thieves, offer criminals that ‘Crime of Opportunity” they are looking for. Thieves looking to steal your packages will follow or watch for UPS, Fed Ex, US Mail, and other delivery service trucks so they can target your home after the parcels are delivered. Below are some “Package Theft Prevention Tips” for you to use which will help reduce your chances of becoming a victim of this crime.

If Possible:

·         Ask for a tracking number. Most major shipping companies offer this service at no charge. This number allows you to track your packages and notifies you when they will be delivered.

·         Request a “Signature Delivery Option”. This requires a signature when the packages are delivered and ensures they will not be left at the front door.

·         For high dollar items, pay extra to insure the package.

·         Request a specific drop off time and date when you will be home to accept your packages.

·         Arrange to have your packages held at the shipping service so you can pick them up.

·         Ask the delivery service to leave your packages at a side or back door. An enclosed porch where packages are out of sight is also a good option.

·         Have your packages delivered to your workplace.

·         Have your packages delivered to the home of a relative or neighbor who will be there to accept them

·         Ask to have your packages delivered to a retail store so you can pick them up at your convenience

·         Ask a trustworthy neighbor to keep a “Watchful Eye” out for you packages. If they’re willing, ask them to safeguard your packages until you return home

·         Leave a note for the carrier instructing them where to leave your packages (Ex: backdoor)

·         If your packages do not arrive as scheduled contact the sender immediately.

What Should You Do If You See Packages Being Stolen In Your Neighborhood?

1. Call 911 immediately! Tell the call taker you are reporting a “Crime in Progress”

2. Tell the 911 operator an accurate description of the suspect(s) and any vehicles that may be used.

10 Steps to prevent Vehicle Burglary

1. Lock all vehicle doors

2. Don't leave anything on your seats or floorboards

3. Park your vehicle in the garage

4. Use car alarms and leave your windows rolled up

5. Install motion detector lights in the front/back of your house

6. Use your porch light and peephole for the front door

7. Obtain a security system or a watch dog

8. Secure doors and window with heavy-duty locks and bolts

9. Communicate with your neighbors, they are your eyes and ears

10. Join or start a neighborhood watch group (Contact Deputy Greg Gabriel, or Sgt. Brian Mann at Altadena Sheriff's Station (626) 296-2107.

Please call Altadena Sheriff's Station concerning all suspicious persons (626 798-1131 or EMERGENCY 911)