TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The area Sheriff’s Office is providing tips to help people avoid becoming victims of porch pirates during the holiday season.

The Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office posted this information on its Facebook page Wednesday.

In its message, the sheriff’s office noted that as the holiday shopping season approaches, the possibility of people stealing packages from homes becomes increasingly likely.

Among the tips to help keep packages safe before porch pirates can steal them:

• Track packages so you can try to be home as soon as they arrive and require a signature.

• Security cameras and doorbell cameras can deter potential thieves.

• Have the package delivered to your workplace or to the home of a family member or friend who may be home during the day.

• Ask the delivery company to hold your package and arrange to pick it up directly from their premises, such as the post office, UPS or FedEx.

• Have the package sent to a self-service locker so you can collect the item at your convenience.

Copyright 2024 WIBW. All rights reserved.