Doorstep parcel theft - Prevention Advice - West Yorkshire Community Alert

Doorstep parcel theft - Prevention Advice

STOP DOORSTEP PARCEL THEFT

📦 Don't Let Thieves Take What You've Paid For

With the continued growth of online shopping, theft of parcels left unattended outside homes has become an increasingly common crime. Most offenders are opportunistic and target parcels that are visible and easily accessible.

Some examples of parcel theft include:

Several parcels with a value of approximatly £400 are left on a doorstep, victim returns home later in the day to discover the parcels have been stolen

Parcel delivered to an address and is left by the bins for 2 days. Unknown suspect takes the parcel

Suspect enters a garden and steals a parcel containing expensive clothing

A parcel is stolen from a doorstep, with contents valued at £176

Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

BEFORE YOU ORDER

✅ Choose a parcel locker, collection point or click-and-collect service for valuable items.

✅ Arrange delivery for a time when someone will be at home.

✅ Ask for deliveries to be sent to a trusted neighbour, family member or workplace where appropriate.

WHEN YOUR PARCEL IS DUE

✅ Use tracking services and delivery notifications to know when your parcel is arriving.

✅ Provide clear delivery instructions and identify a secure location out of public view if available.

✅ Collect deliveries as soon as possible after arrival.

❌ Avoid having parcels left openly on your doorstep or in communal areas,

IMPROVE YOUR HOME SECURITY

Consider:

📹 Video doorbells

📷 CCTV systems

💡 Motion-activated security lighting

📦 Secure parcel boxes

These measures can deter offenders, alert you to deliveries, and provide valuable evidence if a crime occurs.

SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

Be a Good Neighbour

Keep an eye on deliveries for neighbours when they are away.

Report concerns and suspicious activity.

Look out for people following delivery vehicles or checking doorsteps.

IF YOUR PARCEL IS STOLEN

Contact the retailer and delivery company.

Save tracking information and delivery photographs.

Check CCTV, video doorbell footage or witness information.

Report the theft to West Yorkshire Police online or via 101.

Call 999 if the theft is happening at the time.

REMEMBER

TRACK IT • SECURE IT • COLLECT IT

Simple steps can prevent parcel theft and help keep West Yorkshire communities safe.

www.westyorkshire.police.uk | 101 | 999 Emergency Only

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Message Sent By
Tim Morris
(West Yorkshire Police, Force Crime Prevention Officer, Force wide)