Keep Packages in White Lake and Highland Safe During the Holiday Season

Several communities have reported instances of packages being taken from homes during the weeekdays this holiday season. In addition, gifts left in cars overnight have been targets in White Lake and Highland.

Here are some tips to avoid becoming a victim of package theft, courtesy of the Dearborn Police Department:

• Always retrieve packages (and mail) as soon as it arrives.
• If you are not going to be home to receive the package, send the package to the residence of a trusted friend or relative who you know will be home. Be sure that the friend is ready and waiting to retrieve the package when the doorbell rings and be on the lookout in case the doorbell doesn't ring.
• Ask the package delivery company to hold the package if you will not be home (many have local delivery centers).
• Request that your package is marked “signature required.” This requires the delivery person to stand by and wait until you’re available to retrieve the package.
• Leave special instructions on where to deliver the package. A good place is on the side or back of the house, so that the package is out of sight from the road.
• Use a company that provides a tracking service and check online to see when it is scheduled to arrive.
• Have the items shipped to the nearest store for “in-store pick up.”

In White Lake and Highland, police and deputies are urging residents to not leave expensive items in their vehicles, and to lock the doors to their homes and cars.

Police ask that residents be vigilant during the holidays and report any and all suspicious activity to the White Lake Police Department at 248-698-4400 and the Highland Substation at 248-887-6240.