Porch pirates beware

MADISON (WKOW) — Madison police have taken to social media to warn homeowners about porch pirates stealing packages this time of years.

Playing the part as a thief in the video posted to the police department’s Facebook page, an officer offers these tips:

Have packages delivered to your work
Schedule delivery for times you will be home
Have packages delivered to a neighbor who is home
Require a signature from your package carrier
Monitor your front porch (Xfinity Home, Ring doorbell, Nest and others)

Thieves feast on crimes of opportunity and convenience, often finding their biggest bounty in apartment complexes and vulnerable front porches.

Since they are already on your property and porch, some of these #PorchPirates will also check for unlocked doors.

So, make sure that the exterior of your home and any vehicles are locked up every day and night.

Madison Police Department sees a lot of neighborhoods fall victim to theft from autos and garages when the majority of these crimes can be deterred from simply locking them up.