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The holiday season is fast approaching, and that means porch pirates are getting ready to prowl the Ottawa Valley for gifts to pilfer.
Local police say that a little planning can go a long way to keeping the gifts and packages that end up on your front porch safe and your holidays stress-free.
The OPP is suggesting that community members create a secure spot for home deliveries by using lockboxes or parcel safes and consider installing a doorbell camera to visibly deter thieves.
Homeowners can also schedule deliveries for when you are at home or request a signature on delivery, opt for in-store pickup at local businesses when possible, and track shipments with alerts so you know when your package arrives.
The police add that teaming with neighbours to grab each other’s deliveries when the other is away can make all the difference when dealing with porch pirates.
(written by Kasey Egan)
