Friday, March 29, 2024
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Holiday Theft Prevention

This time of the year it is easy to get caught up in the Christmas Spirit and be a little careless. Do not be caught off guard by those looking to steal your joy and packages. The holidays can be an opportunity for the greedy, unable to resist lone packages sitting on your front porch or the shopping treasures piled in your car.

“Many local police departments throughout Florida are warning residents to watch out for an increase in thefts and break-ins around the holidays,” says Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance.  “Most packages are stolen during the day time, when residents are at school or work.”

Specifically, the Tampa Police Department requests,”Residents should be suspicious and alert. In your neighborhood, apartment complex or on your street, keep an eye out for unfamiliar people in a vehicle or on foot following a delivery truck.”

 

Home Deliveriesholidaytheft

FedEx has some tips for keeping thieves away from your delivered packages this season.

Alternate location – Consider having your packages shipped to an alternate location such as your office or to a neighbor or friend who is home during the day.

Sign on the line – Request a signature confirmation for your delivery if possible

Hold it – Ask for your package to be held  at the post office, FedEx or U.P.S. store near you, most carriers will do this free of charge.

There’s an app for that! – There are several package tracking apps available for iOS and Android devices. Popular tracking apps include: “Parcel,” “Slice” and “Delivered!”

 

Car

While you are out shopping, thieves are looking for an opportunity to play the Grinch and take your goods. Consumer Reports has helpful advice on how to keep your presents from being stolen.

Watch where you park – Ideally, park as close to the store entrance as possible or under lighting. Avoid parking near large vehicles such as trucks or SUV’s, which provide privacy for thieves.

Lock up – It sounds like we are stating the obvious but, be sure to close your sunroof and double check that windows and doors are closed and locked.

Out of sight – Keep your packages and valuables hidden in the trunk, or under the seat where they are not easily spotted.

Keep on movin’– If you come out to your vehicle to drop off packages and plan to go back into the store, consider driving to a new parking place. Someone could be watching and will know you won’t be back for a while.

Focus– It is important to pay attention to your surroundings when walking to your car. Stay off the phone, have your keys ready as you approach your vehicle and get in the car quickly and lock the door.

 

GreatFlorida Insurance provides competitive rates on car insurance, homeowner’s insurance as well as renter’s insurance. Visit us online today for a free quote from one of our offices located throughout Florida.

Dustyn Shroff
Dustyn Shroffhttp://www.greatflorida.com
Vice President at GreatFlorida Insurance

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