Police warn of package thefts during the holiday season
Police say package thefts happen throughout the year, but it's more common during the holiday season.
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It's National Package Protection Day and officials are warning about package thefts, especially around the holidays.
Police say package thefts happen throughout the year, but it's more common during the holiday season.
"It's something you've got to be very careful of, protecting the items that you're receiving," says Garden City Police
Commissioner Ken Jackson. "Maybe the neighbor will pick it up or they could have the package sent to another destination where they can pick it up or try to have it delivered when you're going to be around."
People who have had packages stolen with gifts inside for the holidays say it's frustrating and they do everything they can now to prevent it.
"They're very smart and they're very sneaky," says Oyster Bay resident Susan File. "This one little package that should be very easy to receive ended up taking three trips to finally get it.
"It's not a good feeling and particularly when it's time sensitive and you're trying to get it to somebody so often you can't easily replace it," says Oyster Bay resident Dan Searby.
Officials and delivery companies also suggest these tips for keeping your packages safe:
•Purchase a security camera if you can
•Ask for a signature to be required
•Be vigilant about tracking your delivery
•Request for the delivery to be sent to a back or side door
•Bring packages and mail inside quickly
•Request a delivery hold if you’re on vacation or out of town
•Customize delivery instructions
