Top Tips from the Issaquah Police Department
With the rise in online purchasing due to the pandemic, it is more important than ever to prevent package theft this holiday season. Issaquah Police anticipate a rise in package thefts. Many incidents are crimes of opportunity, occurring when a thief sees an easy target that can be taken quickly without notice.
You can take the following steps to protect yourself from package theft during the holiday season and beyond:
- Track your package and request email or text alerts about its delivery status.
- Some shipping companies will allow you to choose a preferred delivery time and date or to change a delivery location when the package is en route.
- Require a signature for your deliveries.
- If you frequently receive deliveries to your residence, consider purchasing a lockable parcel delivery box that can be secured.
- Ship your package to a location where someone you know will be available to receive it, such as your workplace or the home of a relative, neighbor, or friend.
- Consider using other available delivery options. Many retailers and shipping companies may deliver to other secured locations, including lockers, or allow you to pick up your package at a retail store or package center.
- If no other option is available, provide specific instructions about where the package should be left on your property. Choose a location that conceals the item so it can’t be seen by people walking or driving by in your neighborhood.
- If you go on vacation, place deliveries on hold until you return home.
Be a Good Neighbor and Be Alert
If you see a package being stolen from your neighbor’s home, call 911.
To report suspicious activity, call the Issaquah Police Department’s non-emergency line at (425) 837-3200.
If a package is stolen, file a police report and contact the shipper immediately. Call the Issaquah Police Department’s non-emergency line at 425-837-3200.
Photo provided by the city of Issaquah.
