Stop Thieves From Stealing Your Packages: See Ways You Can Help

SUMMIT, NJ — The Summit Police Department is sharing ways to keep your packages safe this year during the Black Friday and holiday shopping season.

As purchasing online continues to become more and more a part of the equation to get gifts delivered each year, so too is the threat of theft.

According to the National Sheriff's Association's National Neighborhood Watch, 49 million Americans have had at least one package stolen over the last 12 months. More than half of adults surveyed also said they weren't willing to change their shopping habits over the holidays.

Now is the time, according to Summit Police, to install a visible security camera that could deter away would-be thieves. Added delivery instructions that are different from normal practices, such as behind a plant or under a bench, can also help to secure your items.

"The more hidden from the street view, the better," the Department said.

Along with the usual tracking numbers, delivery alert options, and insurance offered by your carrier, you may also consider using an alternate location, such as work or a neighbor's home.

Many services also have designated access points in retail stores or their own dedicated facilities that you can also have your items shipped to.

Discreetness is also important when discarding your used boxes. High-end brands on the outside of a box can be a magnet for thieves to scope out your porch for the next time a package is delivered.

Vacationing during the holidays also gives thieves an easier road to monitor a home's situation when a package has been sitting around for multiple days. Mail should be held, forwarded, or put on delivery delay while you are gone.

According to security.org via National Neighborhood Watch, less than 25 percent of package theft victims reported the crime to local law enforcement.

If you believe you are a victim of burglary this holiday season, the organization recommends making police reports for all scenarios, regardless of the package's value.

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