While kids are excitedly counting down the days to Christmas and the big visit from Santa Clause, there's someone else who may be planning a holiday visit to your home.

Porch Pirates - those who steal packages from your front porch after the Amazon or UPS drivers make a delivery - may be planning a surprise visit to your neighborhood. But, unlike jolly ole' St. Nick, you likely aren't preparing for their arrival and they don't bring any holiday cheer.

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Local law enforcement officials say preparing for the possibility that they will visit your home can prevent you from becoming a victim.

The Oneida County Sheriff's Office is providing several tips for Porch Pirate Protection, ranging from opting in for package tracking so you know exactly when something has arrived, to asking a neighbor to keep an eye out for your package:

  • Always utilize package tracking to know when your package is out for delivery.
  • Request a signature upon delivery whenever possible.
  • If you are not home to sign your package, check for services that allow you to automatically redirect your delivery to a trusted neighbor’s address.
  • Ask a neighbor to keep an eye out for your package.
  • Take advantage of technology by installing a video doorbell or security camera to deter or capture photos of a thief.
  • Invest in a porch lock box or mailbox sensor.
  • Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and USPS offer lockers and post office boxes to keep your packages secure until you pick them up. Some of these services are free.
  • Customize Delivery Times - So you receive can your packages near a desired time.
  • Ship to the Store - If the retailer has the option, ship the package to the store, some retailers also offer contactless pickup.
  • Leave Instructions - Leave instructions for your carrier, and ask them to place package in an area out of plain view.
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Are there other ways? Drop us an email with any other tips you might have to protect your packages from being stolen.

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