With the holidays just around the corner, parcel theft becomes a bigger risk.
Elizabeth Popowich, a spokesperson for the Regina Police Service (RPS), wants residents to put the emphasis on preventing any crime happening in the first place.
“Crime prevention is really where it’s at. And the strategy is, and always should be, making it more difficult for the crime to occur,” she said Monday.
“We would like to see people take that extra step of picking up a parcel, either at the post office or at some outlet or an area where the cargo is received and can be held securely until you’re ready to pick it up.”
Locally, RPS hasn’t seen an uptick in theft, but as online shopping increases, companies like FedEx are aware of the possible problem.
They suggest having the parcel delivered to a neighbour or family friend you can trust, or have it sent to your workplace. Additionally, you could ask for a signature upon delivery.
Whatever the risks, shoppers say they will continue to buy online.
“Sometimes, there’s a lot more resources for you then you’d find at your local stores,” said one shopper.
“The prices are usually really good and it’s just easy, and also I don’t have to go out in the cold,” said another shopper.
Should police see an increase in parcel theft in Regina, they would notify the public immediately.