HIGHLIGHTS: Here are a few tips to keep your shipped packages safe this month: Ship things to an Amazon locker, a UPS or FedEx store, or to your work . . . team up with neighbors who might be home during the day . . . track packages online . . . install motion-activated security cameras. . . and try to make your house look like you’re home.
FULL STORY: Package theft is on the rise, and it’s probably just going to get worse this month. If “porch pirates” have struck your neighborhood, here are six tips to keep your packages safe . . .
1. Ship things to an Amazon locker, a UPS or FedEx store or to your work. Just make sure it’s cool with your boss to receive personal packages.
2. Team up with neighbors. If you have a neighbor who’s retired or works from home, ask them if you can ship something to their house . . . or if they’d collect any packages left at your door.
3. Request a signature delivery. The downside is somebody needs to be home to sign for it. And depending on your work schedule, you might end up in a long line at the Post Office on a Saturday.
4. Track packages online. Also, sign up for delivery notifications in case the package gets delayed . . . or delivered earlier than expected.
5. Install security cameras. There are several camera systems that record AND send real-time alerts to your phone when the motion detector senses movement.
6. Make it look like you’re home. Leave lights on a timer. If you have an extra car, park it in the driveway so it looks like you’re home. Even small changes can make a thief pass your house for an easier target.
(Forbes)
