It’s the time of year when porch pirates make their presence known by carting away those special gifts you looked high & low for. A recent article in AAA News made some suggestions that may prove helpful in preventing your special Santa Something from being snatched.

DELIVER TO A WORK ADDRESS — If you’re back in the office and your workplace allows it, have items sent to that address.

INSTALL A SECURITY CAMERA NEAR THE DELIVERY AREA — Digitally-based security cameras connect to your phone or tablet. If someone triggers the camera, you’ll receive a notification. Then, view the live footage or talk to the person via the security system’s app.

CREATE A PACKAGE RETRIEVAL ARRANGEMENT WITH NEIGHBORS — If you aren’t home, ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your property, particularly if you’re traveling. Let them know when the
package is scheduled to be delivered and they can keep a look out for it.

HAVE ORDERS SENT TO A CLOSE-BY AMAZON LOCKER — I have personally used this approach for particularly valuable orders. Some of the lockers can be accessed 24/7, making pick up very convenient. Area locations can be seen here https://www.amazon.com/ulp/view .

None of these suggestions may be new to you – many Midtowners have security cameras – and no suggestion is fool-proof. Consider what steps make sense to you and take those steps to help prevent that very special gift from being pirated.

Bob Blanchard

This article originally appeared in Midtown Brandywine News, December 2023.