9 Ways To Stop A Christmas Package Thief

RACINE, WI -- More and more, consumers are taking to online storefronts to buy the Christmas presents they and their loved ones desire. Here in southeastern Wisconsin, law enforcement agencies have been reporting a seasonal increase in package thefts.

You've probably seen a story or two about the apprehension of your typical package thief: police obtain surveillance footage of a shady character walking up to a front porch, lifting the packages off the stoop, and skulking away on foot or eventually in a getaway car.

You don't necessarily need surveillance equipment to guard against a Christmas package thief. Below are some tips to help protect your items this holiday season courtesy the Racine Police Department.

1. Don’t let your packages sit: Monitor when your packages are expected to arrive. Many businesses provide a tracking number so you can see when your package does arrive.

2. Talk to your neighbors: If you have neighbors who are home during the day, consider asking them to collect your packages on the delivery date.

3. Ship to an alternate address: Some companies allow you to ship your packages directly to your place of business. Also, consider shipping your packages to a friend or relative’s home.

4. Ship to the store: Some retailers allow you to ship to a store near you. This may not be as convenient but it does provide security and helps avoid long lines at the register. So me stores even offer special parking near the entrance.

5. Hi tech solutions: If you order packages all year round, it may be wise to invest in security cameras or mobile apps on your smart phones.

6. Install a package lock-box: A lock-box can be installed on your front porch. Once installed, share your code with your delivery service.

7. Signature on delivery: Consider having your packages delivered only when someone is available to sign for them.

8. Insure your holiday packages: Package thefts increase around the holidays and it may be wise to insure your packages this time of year. This way, if your package is stolen, you can be reimbursed for your loss.

9. Ship to your local pack and ship store: If you have a UPS, FedEx, or other locally owned packing and shipping store nearby, consider sending your packages there.

Hopefully implementing one of these safety techniques will give you peace of mind this hectic holiday season.

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