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Don't let porch pirates steal your holiday cheer: Follow these simple tips

Colorado police departments offer some advice
Posted at 3:41 PM, Nov 30, 2016
and last updated 2016-12-01 01:24:38-05

DENVER – If you have recently bought items during the Cyber Monday sales, or if you’re considering shipping someone a gift over the holiday season, you may want to pay extra precaution to porch pirates – and not let them steal your holiday cheer.

The Arvada Police Department released a video this week with several tips on how to protect your mail from these thieves.

Don’t leave your mail or parcels unattended — especially overnight.

Ask your neighbors for help. If you have a stay-at-home neighbor or friend, ask them to pick up packages you are expecting.

Consider an alternate shipping address. Find out if your workplace is willing to accept your packages from home over the holidays. 

Track and customize your delivery. FedEx, UPS, and The United States Postal Service all offer options to require a signature upon delivery, change the time and location of a delivery, or hold a package until you are able to receive it. (There is a fee associated with some of these services)

Install security cameras on your residence. Surveillance video and images help law enforcement catch mail thieves and bring them to justice, but most thieves know to stay away from homes with visible security cameras.

Report suspicious activity immediately. If you notice an unfamiliar vehicle following behind a delivery truck or unknown persons hovering around, report the activity to your local police department and the delivery service.

Watch the video form the Arvada Police Department below: 

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