Police are offering trips to the public in an effort to combat porch pirates this holiday season.
The Ontario Provincial Police said while online shopping is an easy way to purchase holiday gifts, it can also be easy for thieves to steal those purchases when they’ve been left on your doorstep.
Authorities have provided the following list of steps to help ensure you do not become the victim of a porch pirate:
- Request a signature on delivery.
- Ship the package to a trusted neighbour or relative who will be home.
- Arrange to have packages delivered to your workplace – if your employer allows it.
- Track your delivery online so you know when they’re slated to arrive and plan to be home when the package is delivered.
- Install video cameras and post signage to indicate surveillance is in effect.
- Request the package be left out of sight at a rear or side door.
- Choose in-store or curbside pickup.
Local residents are urged to report stolen packages to police and the company that delivered the purchase.
“Reporting the crime gives police valuable information about potential theft trends in your area,” the OPP said in a news release. “If investigators know there’s a problem, police can dedicate resources to problem areas.”
Thefts can be reported locally to the Chatham-Kent Police Service at (519) 436-6600 ext. 0 or online by clicking here.
