The holidays are a time of joy, but it is also a time to avoid being a victim to a crime of opportunity. The Mesquite Police Department is reminding citizens how they can remain safe and how to prevent their packages from being stolen. Here are some tips to consider while shopping this holiday season.
Take. Lock. Hide. are three easy steps to take to minimize the risk of vehicle break-ins or theft: take your keys, lock your car doors and hide your valuables. Lieutenant Stephen Biggs of the Mesquite Police Department said “This is especially critical if you’re out at the mall or one of our retail areas. It is very simple to take your stuff, lock your car and hide your valuables. It will prevent any thieves from potentially looking in your car and looking for an easy opportunity.”
Once you return home start the 9 PM routine. It is similar to Take. Lock. Hide, but encourages citizens to perform security checks of their homes and vehicles. Take your valuables, Lock your car, lock your home and leave an outside light on. It creates harder opportunities for thieves to make you a victim.
A “Porch Pirate” is someone who drives around following delivery trucks around neighborhoods looking for packages to steal off your doorstep. They are a common threat during this time of year.
Take advantage of Amazon services, such as Amazon Hub Locker and Amazon Counter. They provide safe storage for your packages until they can be retrieved. It is also beneficial to know when your packages will be delivered. If there is no one at home to receive the package, ask a neighbor that you entrust to pick it up for you.
Other common crimes during this time of year are exchanges from online transactions that have gone wrong. The Mesquite Police Department provides a Safe Exchange Zone in front of the Mesquite Police Department building located at 777 N. Galloway Avenue. It provides a safe location for people participating in internet sales during the holiday season and is monitored by 24-hour video surveillance. An officer is also on duty 24 hours a day.