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Can you believe there are only four shopping days \u2019til Christmas?<\/p>\n
Hopefully, you were ahead of the game this year and crossed items off your list early. Or, like an increasing number of people, you opted to order gifts online and avoid the throngs of last-minute shoppers at the mall.<\/p>\n
Convenience aside, there are many pros to having your packages delivered, but more and more people are falling victim to Porch Pirates, which Urban Dictionary defines as \u201cThieves who roam neighbourhoods looking for defenseless parcels.\u201d<\/p>\n
Home delivery can be a perfectly safe option if you or someone else is around to receive your package(s), but what are your options if you aren\u2019t home when your packages arrive on your doorstep?<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re due to have a package shipped via Canada Post, ask that a signature be required so it isn’t left outside. You can also request to pick up packages at a nearby post office instead.<\/p>\n
Some websites have an option for delivery instructions. Make sure to leave a notation like \u201cdo not leave on doorstep\u201d or \u201cdo not safe drop.\u201d Couriers will have to then leave your packages to their depot and you\u2019ll have to pick them up yourself.<\/p>\n
Most companies give customers a tracking number, and it\u2019s advisable to keep tabs on when your package is expected to arrive. If you can\u2019t receive the delivery personally, ask a neighbour to pick it up for you.<\/p>\n
Or, you can circumvent the possibility of theft altogether and have any parcels sent straight to your workplace, if your employer allows it.<\/p>\n
Amazon Key is a new service offered to Amazing Prime members. It’s an anti-theft kit that includes a camera and compatible smart lock. On the day of your delivery, Amazon will notify you of your package’s impending arrival, and unlock your door, enabling the delivery person will enter your home and leave your package right inside your home.<\/p>\n
There’s even an app to watch the everything in real-time as it happens. Amazon notifies you when the delivery has been completed and your door is locked once again.<\/p>\n
(Ed note: Several news outlets<\/a> have recently reported that a flaw in Amazon Key actually leaves your home vulnerable<\/a> to predators. Skip until the company improves the technology.)<\/em><\/p>\nHit the spot<\/h2>\n