LAKELAND - Police are reminding residents to make sure they take precautions this holiday season and do all they can to avoid being a victim of mail theft.
"Mail theft is often a crime of opportunity and happens most in the month of December," according to information from RCMP. "With more and more consumers shopping online and having presents delivered, there is an increase in mail delivery, making it easier for thieves to snag your presents."
From January to October of this year, there have been over 580 reports of mail theft in the Alberta RCMP jurisdiction. Last year, in all of 2022, there were over 720 reports of mail theft in the province.
If you're expecting a parcel in the mail, or you are sending a gift, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
- When possible, opt for a 'signature required' delivery, or provide instructions for the delivery person to leave your items out of sight.
- Tracking shipments helps ensure you know exactly when something lands on your doorstep, so you or a trusted neighbour can grab it before someone else does.
- If possible, arrange for the delivery to be scheduled when you’ll be home.
- Have packages shipped directly to a Canada Post, or other delivery service pick-up location.
- Installing a doorbell camera and motion sensor lights can be a great deterrent for opportunistic criminals.
- Never send cash or other forms of payment through the mail.
- If you’ll be away for the holidays, use Canada Post’s 'Hold Mail' service to suspend your mail delivery until you return.
- If you see suspicious activity at your mailbox, report it immediately to your local police.
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