Even as many residents in Morningside Trails finish their holiday shopping, the days before Christmas Day remain a high-risk window for package theft. Last-minute orders, replacement gifts, and delayed shipments mean packages are still arriving, sometimes unexpectedly. National consumer studies consistently show that package theft spikes around the holidays, when delivery volume is high and thieves may become more opportunistic.

Porch piracy usually happens quickly and without much planning. Thieves often look for easy targets—boxes left in plain view, predictable delivery times, or homes where packages sit unattended for hours. This type of theft doesn’t require forced entry, which is why even quiet, well-kept neighborhoods aren’t immune during peak delivery seasons.

If you’re still waiting on packages, a few small adjustments can significantly reduce risk:

• Track deliveries closely and enable carrier notifications
• Bring packages inside as soon as possible
• Ask a neighbor to grab items if you’ll be away
• Avoid letting multiple packages pile up on your porch

When possible, consider delivery alternatives for higher-value or last-minute orders:

• Ship to a workplace or trusted friend
• Use retailer, Amazon, UPS, or FedEx lockers
• Request “hold for pickup” or signature-required delivery
• Schedule delivery dates when you know someone will be home

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Simple deterrents can also help discourage theft:

• Motion-activated porch lights
• Lockable package drop boxes
• Delivery notes asking drivers to place items out of street view
• Breaking down shipping boxes quickly so new deliveries aren’t advertised

If a package does go missing, avoid confronting anyone directly. Instead, document the issue using tracking information, contact the retailer or carrier promptly, and report the theft if needed. Staying aware and proactive during this final stretch before Christmas can help protect both your gifts and your peace of mind—and helps keep Morningside Trails looking out for one another during the holiday season.

Stay tuned with My Neighborhood News for more community safety reminders and helpful homeowner tips as the holidays wrap up and the new year approaches.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.