Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the busiest shopping days of the year and the Vancouver Police Department reminds the public to be cautious and take simple steps to help prevent parcel theft.
“The convenience of online shopping and having parcels shipped to your door has created new opportunities for thieves,” says Constable Tania Visintin. “We are asking people who purchase goods online to plan ahead and not let their packages sit on the porch or in a mailbox for an extended period of time.”
The VPD offers the following tips:
consider an alternate shipping address where your package can be received, such as at work, or at the home of a friend or neighbour
customize your delivery if possible – request a signature or hold for pick-up
install a package lockbox – if you have deliveries showing up daily you may want to consider installing a lockbox
request a signature on delivery – consider having your packages delivered only when someone is available to sign for them.
Property crime is often preventable and the VPD asks that citizens report suspicious behaviour to police immediately by calling 9-1-1. Anyone who is a victim of theft should follow up with the delivery company and make a report with their local police.