December 9, 2024 – The Decatur Police Department is offering tips to protect your packages this holiday season from “Porch Pirates.”
Porch Pirates, or theives who steal packages from your porch before you can retrieve it, are on the rise as more people do holiday shopping online. According to ADT Home Security, 36% of Americans have had a package stolen from outside of their home.
The Decatur Police Department says there are common sense steps you can take to deter porch pirates and packages theft.
- Signature required: Always request a signature for delive1y to ensure someone is present to receive the package.
- Amazon Key or similar services: Allow delivery d1ivers to place packages inside your home or garage using smart lock technology.
- Delivery instructions: Specify a preferred delivery location on your property, like a side door or a more discreet area.
- Package lockers: Utilize secure package lockers at your local store or delive1y service.
- Package tracking: Sign up for delivery alerts to monitor the status of your packages in real time.
- Security cameras: Install security cameras on your porch to deter potential thieves and capture footage if a package is stolen.
- Video doorbell: Consider a video doorbell to see who is delivering packages and monitor your porch.
- Ask a neighbor to receive packages: If you know you won’t be home, ask a trusted neighbor to pick up your packages.
- Coordinate with your building management: If you live in an apartment complex, work with your building management to implement secure package delivery options.
If you do have a package stolen, make sure to report the theft to the Decatur Police as soon as possible. This may be required for insurance claims. You should also contact the carrier or shipping company to file a claim. Other options include checking with your homeowners insurance to see if it will cover the loss and checking with your credit card company for purchase protection.
