A warning has been issued to anyone who orders parcels or is currently waiting for one to arrive.
Wirral police issued a statement on Facebook to warn people of an increase in parcel thefts from outside homes. A spokesperson added police were working with delivery companies to combat the issue, particularly ahead of Christmas when many will be ordering gifts.
However, the force urged people to heed advice to reduce the risk of falling victim to opportunist thieves this festive season.
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Here are some things you could do to reduce the risk of doorstep theft, according to police:
- Track your parcel to ensure you or someone else is at home for the delivery
- Install a video doorbell; this can be connected to your mobile so you are notified immediately of any delivery, and is easier to install than a full CCTV system
- Install a security light
- Arrange for your parcel to be delivered to a trusted neighbour, or other family members who will be at home who could accept the parcel for you
- Use an off-site locker service for frequent deliveries, or for expensive items; these parcel boxes are more likely to be in busy, safer locations – such as supermarkets – rather than secluded areas which could be targeted by thieves.
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