It’s that time of year, folks. Though we haven’t seen a lot of this activity yet, you could be a victim of package thefts if you aren’t careful. As the holiday shopping season picks up and we begin ordering more items online, your packages, if left unattended, are more susceptible to being stolen by criminals. Sheriff James Lee Berrong does not want to see you victimized by these thieves. Here are some suggestions to help keep you from becoming a victim of this crime:
• Coordinate a drop-off time with the shipper so that you or someone you trust can bring the package indoors.
• Establish a good relationship with your neighbors and work together to help protect each other’s property. When you or your neighbors are expecting a package, you can be there for each other and place packages in a safe place until you or they returns home.
• Fed Ex Delivery Manager, UPS My Choice, and USPS Informed Delivery all have apps to let you know where your package is in the delivery process, and when it will be delivered. You can sign up for text and email alerts to track your package.
• Some shippers have designated pick-up locations where packages can be stored in secure lockers. Amazon utilizes hub lockers, and UPS has UPS Access Point which is retail outlets that serve as UPS parcel delivery and retrieval locations. There are several of each of these options in Blount County.
• Though more reactive than proactive, doorbell and surveillance camera systems are also options, and they are becoming more affordable. Sometimes if a would-be thief sees a camera, it will deter a theft. Most of the camera systems will begin recording when it picks up motion on your porch and will store the video which is easily shareable with law enforcement. Most will also send an alert to your cell phone when the camera is activated, and you can also access the camera to provide you a live feed.
• Have the package shipped to your work address, if your employer will allow it.
Porch thefts have become all too common across the country with more people utilizing on-line shopping. Please do NOT become a victim of this crime. Our deputies are extra-vigilant this time of year for suspicious activity in our neighborhoods. Please do your part, and if you see suspicious activity in your neighborhood, call 911 immediately.
We hope you enjoy your holiday season, worry free!
Original source can be found here