The holiday season brings an increase in package shipments and packages left at residences can become a tempting target for criminals. The BTPD urges residents to report any suspicious vehicles or activity in their neighborhoods and offers the following security tips for holiday package theft prevention:

If using the USPS as your shipping provider:

1. Don't leave delivered mail and packages unattended.
2. If you're going out of town, put your mail on "hold" at your local Post Office.
3. Ship using "Hold for Pickup". Customers can redirect incoming packages shipped via the USPS to their local Post Office.
4. Customize the delivery. Customers can provide delivery instructions online and authorize the carrier to leave it in a specified location.
5. Secure the shipment using USPS Special Services, such as Signature Confirmation or Registered Mail.

If using a private courier service (UPS, FedEx, DHL, Amazon, etc…)

1. Tracking - Package tracking tells you when your package is delivered. 
2. Install Security Cameras - Security cameras help keep track of activity at your front door.
3. Porch Lock Boxes - Porch lock boxes that delivery drivers can access will protect packages. 
4. Delivery Manager – Many companies offer free delivery manager services that you can use to track packages, redirect packages to convenient locations for pickup, request vacation holds and more.
5. Have packages delivered to your workplace/office – Consider having your package delivered to your office or friends’ houses that you trust and will be home to get your package.
6. Require signatures for delivery - To prevent your package being stolen off the front porch, side door, back porch, or garage area, ask for signature delivery.
7. Insure your upcoming packages - Insuring your precious holiday parcel will guarantee you reimbursement if unfortunately, your delivery was stolen or lost before you lay your hand on it.