Protecting Your Holiday Packages

So you've ordered some gifts online and you're expecting that box from Aunt Mary any day now; unfortunately, while you're at work or out buying a new roll of wrapping paper, someone may be stealing those packages right off your front porch.

"This type of crime is common this time of the year, due the the increase of packages being delivered," said Lawanda Kornegay, Crime Prevention Specialist for the .

After speaking with the city's crime analyst, Kornegay said, so far, the amount of reported package theft in Roswell this year is low.

However, it's better to be safe than sorry. Kornegay recommends all Roswell residents take note of the theft prevention tips recently released by the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office. 

"The crime tips given by FCSO are the best ways to protect yourself from this type of crime," she said.

Here are several things the FCSO says you can do to make sure your holiday gifts and other mail stays safe from theft this season and throughout the year:

-Have packages delivered directly to your office if you are not home during the day. Or ask a neighbor you know will be home if it's okay to have it delivered to their address while you're out. 

-Even mail that doesn't require a payment or signature is susceptible to theft and leaves you open to identity fraud. Find out when your mail or packages will be delivered and take it inside as soon as possible.

-Don't mail payments from your home or office. Send bill payments out from the post office or a blue postal mailbox since thieves look for raised flags to indicate the possibility they might find your sensitive financial information inside.

-Report suspicious activity, vehicles, or people in your subdivision. The RPD can help residents organize a neighborhood Crime Watch and offers additional tips on how to prevent crime in our community. For more information, contact Lawanda Kornegay at 770-640-4455.