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By Liam Verster
Porch Pirates and Parking Lot Prowlers

RCMP remind people to be cautious with their deliveries, purchases

Dec 6, 2024 | 1:11 PM

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP warn that the holiday season is ripe pickings for porch pirates, and urges people take steps to protect their deliveries.

With people doing holiday shopping online, police advise the public to stay vigilant and take steps to protect their packages, both at home and while out shopping.

“While you’re busy making lists and checking them twice, so are porch pirates and parking lot prowlers”, said Constable Chris Terleski, of Vernon North Okanagan RCMP.

“With the increase in deliveries and shopping trips, it’s important to stay one step ahead of would-be thieves. Don’t let the holiday hustle and bustle turn into a humbug heartbreak and follow these tips to help keep your treasures safe and secure.”

For people having packages delivered to their home, the police advise that:

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  • Have deliveries scheduled for when someone is home
  • Use tracking services and receive updates to known when the packages are due to arrive
  • Have a friend, family member or neighbour pick up packages when not at home
  • Have packages delivered to workplaces or a secured pick-up location
  • Co-ordinate with carriers to ensure someone is available to receive and sign for packages
  • Have doorbell or other security cameras set up to deter thieves
  • File a report with the courier and notify police right away if a package is stolen

Tips for while out shopping include:

  • Store purchases in the trunk or out of site and not on passenger seats
  • Ensure the vehicle doors are locked and the windows are rolled up, even during short stops
  • Pay attention to who is nearby while loading items into a vehicle

Police also asked that people report suspicious activities around vehicles and homes.

by Liam Verster
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