Dear Resident The New Year sales are now on, for many of us that means shopping online for bargains. But while we're hunting for the best buys, thieves are getting ready too and they’re targeting parcels left on doorsteps. We’ve seen a rise in parcel thefts in Smethwick recently and we don’t want anyone’s New Year ruined by a missing delivery. So, here are some simple, practical steps you can take to make sure your parcels end up in your hands and not someone else’s. When you’re ordering online, try to pick a delivery slot for when you know you’ll be home. It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget when you’re rushing through checkout. If you can’t be in on that day, arrange to have your parcel delivered to a secure location. If you’re out, ask a trusted neighbour or family member to take your parcel in. Many couriers also let you choose a “safe place” for deliveries – such as a lockable parcel box – but make sure it’s somewhere discreet and not in plain sight where anyone walking past can see it. Doorstep deliveries aren’t the only option. Parcel lockers, parcel shops, post offices and convenience stores are great alternatives. They’re secure and you can collect your items when it suits you. Most retailers and couriers offer tracking updates, so make sure to use them. Knowing when your parcel is due means you can plan to be home or arrange for someone else to be there. It might be tempting to share your excitement about that big delivery on social media, but don’t. Posting about what’s coming and when can make you a target. If you can, install a doorbell camera or a motion-activated light. They’re not just useful for catching thieves – they can deter them altogether. Even a simple sign saying “CCTV in operation” can make someone think twice. To report parcel theft, you should call 101 for non-emergencies or report it online. In an emergency, such as a crime in progress, dial 999 immediately. For more crime prevention advice and safety tips for preventing stolen deliveries, visit our website: Preventing stolen doorstep deliveries | Crime prevention | West Midlands Police | 
