Photo: archive photo

With Black Friday and the start of the holiday shopping season, South Okanagan RCMP is reminding residents of some tips for protecting their homes and/or businesses from thieves.

The RCMP explained that when shopping online during the holiday season, remember not to leave empty boxes in your carport, yard or driveway.

“This may inadvertently announce that you have a brand new flat screen TV, laptop, iPad or other highly desirable item to steal,” police said.

South Okanagan – Similkameen Crime Stoppers reported that package thefts from porches increase this time of year, suggesting tracking packages as much as possible and instead considering having them delivered to workplaces or to pickup locations.

Other tips from police to help keep porch pirates away from steps and neighborhoods include:

• Have a well-lit front door to deter thieves. Install a surveillance system, such as a doorbell camera.
• Ask couriers to require a signature when delivering a package
• Sign up for online accounts with mail delivery locations that can accept packages on your behalf
• Report stolen packages to the police

To report any suspicious activity, contact the Penticton RCMP at (250) 492-4300 or your local police service. To remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or report online at www.sostips.ca

Photo: Crime Stoppers