Police in Bury St Edmunds are issuing advice following a rise in parcel thefts. Officers say that there has been an increase in parcel theft numbers across the county.

They say that we should consider:

• Arrange deliveries for a time when you know someone will be at home. Use the tracking option to assist.
• Consider having deliveries made to your workplace or a trusted friend if you won’t be at home.
• If you know you won’t be able to accept a parcel, arrange for a click and collect delivery so that it is held securely until you can collect it.
• Make sure you update the delivery instructions when you place an order in case you are not able to accept it. Ideally, ask for the package to be left with a trusted neighbour or arrange to collect it.
• If you do ask for the parcel to be left at your address, make sure it is left out of sight, ideally within a secure locker bolted to the ground. Many parcels that get stolen have been left in insecure front porches or simply on the doorstep.
• Consider installing CCTV that you can view remotely or a video doorbell (see www.securedbydesign.com). This will allow you to watch where the delivery is placed and also monitor any activity after it has been left.

Officers are also urging that If you see something/someone suspicious in your neighbourhood, report it to the police, immediately on 101 or online.