Package piracy prompts police to caution public
By Trail Champion
Recent thefts and the approaching holiday season have police reminding residents to be diligent in securing deliveries and packages.
Trail RCMP Sgt. Mike Wicentowich said deliveries left on front doorsteps may be targeted by opportunistic thieves.
“On Nov. 8 at 12:28 p.m. the Trail and Greater District Detachment RCMP were notified about two delivered Amazon packages stolen from a doorstep of a residence located in the 1700 block of Groutage Avenue,” he said. “This comes as an early warning to the public as Christmas approaches and home delivery begins to peak.
“The RCMP recommends the following precautions:
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Install a security camera preferably with motion detectors and connects to your smart phone
- Cameras can alert you to when packages are delivered
- Cameras help the police identify and track down package thieves
- Cameras are relatively affordable nowadays. Smart doorbells are a popular choice that combine a doorbell, motion-activated camera, two-way audio capabilities, and connects to your cell phone
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Get to know your delivery people
- Let them know where and when you prefer to have packages delivered
- Ask them to leave a delivery notice instead of the package
- They can watch out for anyone acting suspiciously around your residence as they deliver packages to your home
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Have a designated and secure spot for your package
- Install a locker or locking box on your property which packages can be secured by the delivery person
- Have it delivered directly to you at your work
- Rent a secure post office mailbox from Canada Post for a reasonable fee
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Team up with your neighbours
- If you are home, keep an eye on your neighbouring residences and ask your neighbours to do the same
- Ask your neighbour to secure your packages for you after delivery
- Some neighbourhoods form Facebook groups and share information about the daily activities in their area
- Report suspicious activity to the RCMP and package thefts as information is used to track down package thieves.”
The Trail RCMP non-emergency line is 250-364-2566.
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