With the holiday rush underway and packages piling up at doorsteps across the province, Alberta RCMP are reminding residents to take simple steps to keep their mail and property secure.

Police say mail theft tends to rise this time of year as online shopping and gift deliveries increase. A few precautions can go a long way toward protecting your parcels.

Protect Your Deliveries

If you’re sending or receiving items this season, consider the following:

▪️ Choose “signature required” delivery when possible, or leave clear instructions for drivers to hide packages out of sight.
▪️ Track your shipments so you know exactly when they will arrive. You or a trusted neighbour can pick them up promptly.
▪️ Schedule deliveries for times when you’re home.
▪️ Ship items to a delivery service pickup location. It’s free and helpful for larger or high-value packages.
▪️ Install a doorbell camera or motion sensor lights to discourage opportunistic thieves.
▪️ Never send cash or other forms of payment through the mail.
▪️ Report any suspicious activity around mailboxes immediately.

Heading Out of Town? Secure Your Home

If you plan to travel in December, RCMP suggest taking a few extra steps:

▪️ Make sure no mail or packages are left sitting at your door or in your mailbox.
▪️ Ask a neighbour to shovel and collect your mail so your home looks occupied.
▪️ Lock all doors and windows, set motion lights outside, and use timers for indoor lights.

Report Suspicious Activity

Alberta RCMP encourage residents to report crime or suspicious behaviour. Information helps guide future patrols and investigations.

For emergencies, call 911.
To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at P3Tips.com, or through the “P3 Tips” app.

Follow Alberta RCMP on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta, X @RCMPAlberta, and YouTube RCMP-GRC Alberta for more safety updates.