From Cart to Doorstep: Keeping Your Holiday Purchases Protected

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Fairfax County, VA – The holiday shopping season is officially here. From Black Friday doorbusters to Small Business Saturday finds, Cyber Monday steals, and weeks of online deals to follow, our community will see a major spike in delivered packages. With more shopping happening from home, porch pirates often see this time of year as their opportunity, so we want to help you stay one step ahead.

Whether you’re picking up gifts, household items, or everyday essentials, here are practical ways to keep your deliveries safe:

Stay on Top of Your Deliveries

  • Sign up for tracking alerts through USPS, UPS, FedEx, Amazon, and other carriers so you know when a package is out for delivery or has arrived.
  • Use delivery apps to monitor packages in real time and adjust instructions if needed.

Choose the Safest Delivery Options

  • Request signature confirmation or require the package be held if no one is home.
  • Use secure delivery locations such as lockers, package rooms, or ship-to-store pickup.
  • Lean on trusted neighbors. Ask someone nearby to bring in a package if you’re away.

Strengthen Your Home Security

  • Install security cameras or a video doorbell. These systems can deter opportunistic thieves and provide valuable evidence.
  • Use motion-activated lighting near entryways to make your home less appealing to criminals.
  • Keep porches tidy. Clear visibility makes it harder for someone to discreetly grab a package.

Create a Dedicated Drop Zone

  • Use a lockable parcel box or designate a discreet, less visible spot for deliveries.
  • Add delivery notes like “leave on side of house” to keep items out of plain sight.

Protect More Than Just Packages

Holiday shopping brings increased foot and vehicle traffic around malls and shopping centers. Keep these in mind while you’re out:

  • Park in well-lit areas and lock your doors.
  • Don’t leave shopping bags or valuables in plain view. Store items in your trunk before arriving at your next stop.
  • Stay alert while loading purchases. Avoid distractions and keep your keys in hand.
  • Hold bags close and secure wallets or purses when navigating crowded stores.

Report Theft Quickly

If you become a victim of package theft or see suspicious activity, report it immediately by calling the Fairfax County Police Department’s non-emergency line at 703-691-2131.

A few simple steps can protect your hard-earned purchases and help keep this season merry, bright, and safe for everyone. Enjoy the savings and stay safe.

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For more ways to stay connected, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.