Porch pirate in Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County OPP remind residents to take precautions with deliveries to their home after responding to a report of a theft Monday afternoon.

Const. Aaron Miller, PEC OPP’s community safety and media relations officer said a parcel delivered to its intended recipient’s mail box was no longer there when the recipient returned home to retrieve it.

“Often referred to as ‘porch pirates’, these thieves steal packages that are left at someone’s residence when no one is at home to accept the parcel.”

The OPP offers tips to help keep delivered packages safe from porch pirates”

· Request a signature on delivery

· Ship the package to a trusted neighbour or relative who will be home

· Have the packages delivered to your work – if allowed by the employer

· Track your deliveries on-line so you know when they’re slated to arrive and plan to be home upon delivery

· Opt for in-store or curb-side pickup wherever possible

· Install video cameras and post signage to indicate surveillance is in effect

· Request the package be left out of sight at a rear or side door

If a package is stolen from your home, report the incident to your local police and the shipping company. If you see suspicious activity in your neighbourhood contact your local police or Quinte Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).