For Immediate Release

Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2015

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 781-533-9398
Email: john@jgpr.net

Bedford Police Department Offers Safety Tips to Prevent Doorstep Thieves During the Holidays

BEDFORD – As residents begin their holiday shopping, Chief Robert Bongiorno and the Bedford Police Department advise that the community be cautious when ordering online gifts to avoid doorstep theft.

“We want our residents to have a joyous holiday season that is not tainted by theft,” Chief Bongiorno said. “Please remember to send your online orders to a secure location to avoid someone taking unattended packages left for you while you’re away.”

FedEx and UPS offer services to assist customers. To ensure packages are not stolen, consider:

• Requesting a signature on your deliveries, especially those of high value, so they are not left unattended. You can also give specific instructions on where to leave a package so it is not left in a visible spot.

• Signing up for an email alert that will notify you when your delivery is set to arrive.

• Choosing an alternative destination — either at work or at a family member’s, friend’s or neighbor’s house where someone will be home to receive the delivery.

• Re-directing packages, even if they’re already on their way. Send them to your closest FedEx or UPS office, or another secure location.

• Setting up a vacation hold if you’ll be away during the holidays so gifts will not be delivered to an empty house.

If you arrive home to find your package has been stolen, immediately report it to police. However, if the item was not insured, the chances of receiving it back are slim.

Residents should NEVER accept a surprise package or gift where a payment is required. Additionally, do not give out any personal information when retrieving a delivery if you initiated the purchase.

###