Arrr You Alert? Beware of Porch Pirates

Reports of “porch pirates,” or thieves who brazenly steal packages off of front doorsteps, are all too common locally and nationwide. When shopping from online retailers, Howard County Police Department reminds residents to plan ahead to avoid becoming a victim of package theft.

Package Safety Tips:

• Consider installing a doorbell camera that notifies you when someone comes to your door.
• Track your packages and try to be home when they are scheduled to arrive. If you can’t be home, ask a neighbor or friend to pick up the package until you return.
• Use an alternative delivery option, such as an Amazon locker or an attended pickup location.
• Request that the delivery service place the package in a location that can’t be seen from the sidewalk, such as at a side or back door.
• Install a lockbox, a sturdy, secure container for delivery personnel to place your packages that locks after drop off.
• When you are home, bring packages inside immediately after delivery.
• Look out for your neighbors and report suspicious activity on your street. Contact Howard County Police Department by calling 911 or the non-emergency number at 410-313-2200.