Kyle Police Department Holiday Safety Tips
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It's the most wonderful time of the year not just for you and your family, but for thieves, too. Burglars know the holiday season is a prime time for them to stock up on some goodies of their own. They plan ahead to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals who may be more focused on merrymaking than keeping safe from theft and fraud. Don't let a Grinch steal your holiday cheer this year! Here are some tips from the Kyle Police Department to keep you and your family safe this holiday season.
If you see the Grinch, please call our Grinch Hotline at 737-292-6278 and report the spotting And don't forget to join us for Santa's Arrival on Dec. 1 from 4- 9 p.m. at Mary Kyle Hartson Park!
PACKAGE THEFTS & PORCH PIRATES:
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NONDESCRIPT PACKAGING: When possible, request that the item be sent in nondescript packaging. Ask senders not to announce where the package is coming from, especially if it’s from a high-end store. Sometimes this is possible through requesting a gift shipping option.
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CUSTOMIZE DELIVERY TIMES: Customize delivery times, so you receive them when you're home. Amazon has an option to set a delivery day.
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ASK A NEIGHBOR: Ask a neighbor to watch for, and pick up your box when it arrives. Also confirm a missing packages was not accidentally delivered on a neighbors porch.
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DELIVER AT A FRIEND'S HOME: Have your package delivered to the home of a relative or friend that you know will be home.
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DELIVER AT WORK: Have your package delivered to your work.
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SHIP TO STORE: If the retailer has the option, ship the package to the store. Some retailers will offer contactless pickup. Amazon offers a locker feature that allows you to pick up your package from a secure location.
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PICK UP FROM DELIVERY SERVICE: Pick up the package in-person from the delivery service. UPS, FedEx and the U.S. Postal Service have a number of storefronts where packages can be picked up from.
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TRACK YOUR PACKAGE: Track your package, so you know exactly when it will be received. And subscribe for delivery alerts.
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REQUEST SIGNATURE CONFIRMATION: Request that your package has signature confirmation upon delivery.
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LEAVE INSTRUCTIONS: Leave instructions for your carrier, and ask them to place package in an area out of plain view.
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PACKAGE LOCKBOX: Install a package lockbox. It can be installed near or in conjunction with your mailbox. Choose a lockable container for maximum security.
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SECURITY CAMERAS: Install a security camera near your front door to catch potential thieves red-handed.
VEHICLE THEFTS
- Lock your vehicle and remove all the valuables, whether your car is in your driveway or at a shopping center.
- Hide your things
- Lock your car
- Take your keys
LEAVING FOR THE HOLIDAYS
- Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to watch your home.
- Use timers for lights and radios while you're away.
- Make arrangements for mail and newspapers (to either be temporarily stopped or have someone collect them for you)
- The Kyle Police Department offers a Vacation Watch program.
SCAMS AND FRAUD
- Be suspicious of unexpected sales calls or deliveries. Ask for identification.
- Be aware of scams that criminals commit to take advantage of people's generosity during the holidays.
- Investigate charities before making donations. Request info about how they will use the funds raised.
AFTER THE HOLIDAYS
- Don't put boxes of expensive toys, electronics, or other gifts out for garbage collection. Compress large boxes and place them in black garbage bags for pick-up.
- Add new items to your home inventory. Take photos or video of all items of value in your home and list each item's make, model, serial number and other information.