Preventing package and mail theft
At 4:15pm today, we became victims to “amazon theft”. We took the kids out for a swim while my mom was at home. Our car was not in the driveway. We got home at 4:30pm expecting to see our package there but it was gone. We immediately looked through the security footage and was able to make a report right away to keep crime stats up to date in our neighborhood. Thankfully, the package stolen wasn’t of high value and amazon promptly replaced it.
Officer Josh Gould of the MVPD came by to take our report and gave us plenty of great tips for preventing theft. When we shared videos online, many people posted about the great footage that was captured so we’re adding those tips as well. I’m sure some of you may be planning summer vacations, so it’s a good time to be extra mindful. Thanks to the security footage that was captured by a few of our neighbors, the police department was able to both identify and arrest the suspects!
Eufy Security System
We recognize there are many wireless camera systems out there but given price (average ~$100/camera) we decided to test a cheaper, powered WiFi camera. We have a <$40 INDOOR camera mounted under the eaves, protected from rain. We have seen many do this with success over a couple years so worth a try. Eufy cameras have higher resolution (2K) vs. typical HD 1920x1080 cameras. It appears that Eufy has better security/privacy than some of the other manufacturers. The motion detection works fairly well and get near instant notifications ~1-2 sec when person walks to porch, as you can see captured in our footage. We have one right under the eaves on the front porch and also one to the right of the garage. Their wires are ran through the weaves into the garage where it is powered up. The two camera angles give us great vantage points. Eufy’s software has been reliable in capturing continuously unto the memory cards. The battery-powered ones only capture events when they are motion triggered. If you are worried about people hacking into the wifi, you can have the security cams run off a different wifi network from your personal devices.
Eufy also make wireless weatherproof ones but an entire system is usually $200+. I’,m excited about their solo cam system that will be launched in June.
In addition, we also purchased Eufy’s battery-powered camera doorbell. This will help us stay on top of package deliveries as we definitely have missed the knocking in the past. Will update the blog once we have it installed.
We have also ordered some surveillance yard signs that will hopefully provide more deterrent.
Other security tips from officer Gould
Make all security cameras highly visible
For valuable packages, pick up immediately or send to a safe location (e.g. amazon locker)
Close blinds where possible, people may look in and see valuable items.
Make sure all windows have wooden dowel rods or metal bars that fit into your tracks to prevent break-ins.
Have outdoor lights on timer or motion sensor.
Don’t leave any belongings in the car. Even something as simple as a shoebox could be sufficient temptation for theft.
Make sure you have locks installed on gates
Ensure trees/bushes are trimmed to make it more difficult for people to hide and get taller fences where possible.
Don’t reveal things you don’t need to reveal like your workplace or hint at what you might own. Looks like the Peloton decal on my minivan will have to go.
Know your neighbors well and tell them if you go on vacation so they can keep an eye out for you.
If at all possible, try not to make it obvious you are leaving on vacation. When loading the car, try to do it in the garage. Or make it seems like there is still activity in the house. Leave another car in the driveway, get tike sensor indoor lights or even get a house-sitter.
Be super aware of your neighborhood. If you see someone or a vehicle that doesn’t look familiar in the neighborhood, totally okay to approach and just say something as simple as “Hey, how are you doing?” That could be simple enough to deter them.
It really sucked that his happened to us but we super thankful to have learnt some valuable tips from Officer Gould. We honestly never thought this would ever happen in our neighborhood so it’s good to keep the awareness up, folks!
P.S. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
