Porch pirates. Package thieves. Grinches. Whatever you call them, they destroy the holiday spirit by stealing the unattended packages from your front porch between the time they are delivered and the time you pick them up.

Sometimes, the window of theft can be as small as a few minutes, and can happen in the blink of an eye.

There are some steps recommended by law enforcement that you can take to help prevent the packages left on your porch by the delivery service from being stolen this year.

They include the following:

• Have packages purchased online delivered directly to the local store and pick them up at the customer service counter.
• Have packages sent with “signature required.” The package can’t be left behind on the porch without a person signing for delivery.
• Track your package online so you see the status (such as “out for delivery,” where the package is at currently and an approximate day of delivery).
• Ask a trusted neighbor to pick up your package from your porch if you are not going to be home.
• If your employer allows it, have your packages delivered to your business address.
• Some homeowners are investing in locking package containers bolted onto their porch for deliveries.
• Invest in a security camera. If your package is stolen, you may be able to record the suspect and assist the police in the investigation.
• Start or join a Neighborhood Watch so you and your neighbors and be on the lookout for suspicious persons in your neighborhood.

If you do have a package stolen, immediately report the theft to local law enforcement and contact the vendor. If you purchased insurance, the item may be covered by loss from theft.

It is important to be proactive and stay one step ahead of package thieves.

By removing the opportunity for them to steal your unattended packages, you can ensure a happy holiday season.