BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — As the holiday season intensifies, many last-minute shoppers are anxiously awaiting their package deliveries, only to find some have fallen victim to porch piracy. “You feel horrible. You went through the trouble of ordering it, paying for it, having it delivered, and you can see it’s on your front porch, but where is it? Somebody else has got it,” said an anonymous resident, capturing the frustration of many.
Porch pirates have hit a Clovis home again, this time getting away with some dog food. “Bentley the dog is upset at the thief,” said James Torres. (Photo: James Torres)
To combat this, some residents are turning to technology and community vigilance. “The only way you can defeat that is by having a Ring doorbell or something or staying home,” another resident advised.
Utah security experts are urging shoppers to stay alert this holiday season — online, in parking lots, and at home — as thefts, scams, and crime rise during the busiest shopping months of the year. (Photo: KUTV)
Raymond, a resident, shared his strategy: “I usually have the app on my phone, and it notifies me, and if I’m not there, I would like to let somebody know if they can get it for me or keep an eye on it, through the Ring camera.”
For others, the concern is more pressing. “I want to get my stuff as soon as my Ring doorbell says there is motion. I head back to the house, get my stuff, put it in the house, and then everything’s fine,” said another anonymous resident.
The Bakersfield Police Department suggests installing security cameras, asking neighbors to pick up packages, shipping to secure locations, or using the “ship to store” option to prevent theft.
Other safety tips include:
The use of exterior motion-activated lightingHave packages shipped to the workplaceHave USPS packages held at a local post office
Other holiday safety tips include:
Always lock doors and windows Not to advertise their absence, especially on social mediaDo not hide spare keys outside the home in obvious placesDo not openly display a Christmas tree, gifts, or valuablesWhen away from home, consider leaving exterior and/or interior lights onComment with Bubbles
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BPD urges anyone if who sees something to say something by reporting it on their website.