During the COVID-19 lockdown, package thieves and “porch pirates” are simply on the loose. Youth are bored at home and end up involved in mischievous activities. With more people shopping online, mail rooms, vestibules, stoops, and porches are overflowing with boxes of essential food deliveries and activities for the children. Mean-spirited petty crooks are making off with these parcels leaving families trapped in isolation without their precious belongings.
So, what can one do to foil these poachers? Quite a bit, at least in the case of the package theft, and strategies range from the high-tech to common sense. If you just want revenge, you can always call 911.
If you live in a non-doorman building with a common foyer, do the building residents a favor and do not buzz anyone who you don’t know into the building. Getting past that first door is all a thief needs to scoop up what is left there and bolt.
When able, track your package and request a signature when applicable, helping you know when to expect the delivery safely. Neighbors come in handy here as you can ask them to fetch your delivery when it appears. If you are not going to be home, try to arrange a delivery to your job or have a friend accept the box.
Feel free to step it up a notch and invest in security solutions like cameras. These act in a preventative manner, specifically when paired with a motion-activated spotlight. These outdoor lights do the obvious and shine light upon the intruder and may also attract the attention of fellow neighbors. Smart camera systems often link to home devices including Alexa and Google Home, allowing owners to receive live video alerts.
If, after all your protection efforts you still are victim to a thievery insurance may be able to cover losses but they often come with a deductible preventing targets from filing claims on cheaper items.
One local resident who had her packages stolen warns her neighbors to remain vigilant and keep tabs of the surroundings of your home. “The use of a smart doorbell with a video camera is a wise decision that gives homeowners and renters a better sense of security and protection for your family enabling you to communicate and potentially ward off a thief,” observes the resident.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
Thieves On The Rise Due To COVID-19
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