Wellington County OPP has a warning for residents to protect themselves from Porch Pirates.
In a release, they warn that residents should make arrangements when expecting to receive deliveries.
OPP list these tips to help protect your packages.
-Track deliveries online and try to be home at the time a package is delivered.
-If possible, request deliveries services to get a signature from a recipient.
-When scheduling a delivery, leave instructions on where the package can be delivered or ask for a phone call when it is delivered. Even leaving a package out of sight may make all the difference.
-Ask a trusted friend or neighbour to receive your package at the time of delivery.
-Have the package delivered to a delivery depot where it can be held for pickup.
-Consider installing a motion-detection home security system that records video and sends immediate notice of activity to your cell phone. Many new smart doorbell systems allow live updates.
A recent FedEx survey reports that more than 1 in 4 Canadians say they’ve had a package stolen from outside of their home, and nearly 70 per cent of Canadians are worried about package theft.
“If you’re concerned about safe package delivery, there are a few steps you can take this Holiday season," said Ann-Marie McIntosh of FedEx Express Canada. "When checking out online, look to see if you have the option to pick up your package at a retail location. If that’s not convenient, try having deliveries go to your workplace instead of your home. Alternatively, you can track your packages or redirect them to another address through your shipping provider’s website or app.”