by Timothy Rutt
Lots of chatter in the newsgroups lately about stolen packages and suspicious vehicles in the neighborhoods. Since this is the time of year when more packages are delivered, your front porch can be ripe pickings for thieves going after your holiday treasures.
While it’s largely a crime of opportunity, in years past there have been reports of thieves actually following delivery trucks on their rounds and stealing packages they’ve left behind.
A few safety tips from years past on how to handle package deliveries:
- If possible, send the package to a relative or neighbor that is home during the day and is expecting the package.
- Always try to request signature confirmation on deliveries. This will ensure that the delivery person won’t leave the package unattended.
- Send packages to your work rather than your home. This will ensure that you receive the package or someone will sign for it if you are not available.
- If you see a suspicious vehicle in your neighborhood, or anybody taking packages from homes, call the sheriff (798-1131).
There are several delivery services out there, including several Fed Ex, Ontrak, UPS and the Postal Service. I am a delivery person for UPS in Altadena. As for UPS we make every effort to deliver your package out of sight and out of weather. Of course this is not always possible but we try. We also try to keep an eye out for suspicious vehicles. Right now we are so busy we require helpers on each truck, which makes it a little harder to control. If you know you are getting a package that requires a signature please be sure to arrange for someone to be home to sign for it or make arrangements with a neighbor and leave us a note, letting us know. We also knock loudly and yell UPS so you know your package is there. If you are home please bring it in immediately so no one has a chance to come along after us to steal it. Here’s to a safe and happy holiday season and to everyone receiving their packages on time and in perfect condition.