Christmas packages stolen from Calgary woman's doorstep

A young Calgary woman is not having a very merry Christmas.

Stephanie Anderson, who came from P.E.I. three years ago, moved into a basement suite in the southwest community of Oakridge in November.

Her family back east sent her two separate Christmas packages through Canada Post and, according to the tracking software, both were delivered to the doorstep of her home.

But both packages disappeared before she got there.

Anderson asked her neighbours, who told her they had seen packages on her front door. She is fearful that somebody picked them up.

Calgary police Sgt. Brett Hodell says people need to be aware that this kind of thing can happen at any time.

“If you are having packages delivered, its definitely something to be aware of," he said

"Thieves will at times follow delivery people around from house to house and wait to see if anyone picks up these packages that are dropped off at the residences and if they’re not picked up relatively quick, they can make off with them.”

Hodell says there is not a lot that can be done if any packages are stolen from your doorstop, so it's important to be aware of how to protect your items:

• Pre-register your package so that a signature is required for upon delivery.

• If you aren't home during the day, have your packages shipped to work.

• Use an alternate address — a friend or neighbour — who will be home to accept the delivery.

• Have expensive or valuable items insured and tracked.

Canada Post says any thefts should be reported to the police immediately. They recommend requesting a signature on delivery because if the person is away, they will bring the package back and keep it secure at the closest post office.

Canada Post also pointed to security being another reason it is installing super mailboxes in neighbourhoods across the country. They say 80 per cent of parcels can fit into the larger locked compartments.

"I’m not looking to get it back. I just want people aware that this is happening," said Anderson. "I know that gifts are replaceable but for some families they’re not.

"People work hard, especially at Christmas, to purchase things to send to their family member so I just want people aware that this is happening and in our community."